Mark D. Tranvik is professor of Reformation history and theology at Luther Seminary. His books include Martin Luther and the Called Life (Fortress, 2016). Martin Luther stands as one of the most significant figures in Western history. His distinction as the father of the Protestant Reformation is augmented by his innovative use of new technology (the printing press), his translation of the Christian Bible into the vernacular, and his impact upon European society. Born in 1483 to middle-class parents in Saxony, eastern Germany, he became an Augustinian monk, a priest, a professor of biblical literature, a reformer, a husband and father. He died in 1546 after having witnessed the birth of a renewal movement that would result in a profound shift in faith, politics, and society. He has been both praised and vilified for what he preached and wrote. His thought continues to influence all Christians and to animate the movement that bears his name.
Description
The Freedom of a Christian is one of the "greatest hits" in the history of Christianity. Mark D. Tranvik translates it here with an ear for the modern reader, reclaiming the vigor of Luther's own language and giving it new life for our times. This is a translation for all who are curious about the transformative possibilities of Luther's message. --Anna Marie Johnson, associate professor of Reformation church history, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, and author of Reforming Faith: The Wittenberg Circle and the Reformation of Christian Life (Fortress, 2026) Luther's way of teaching the gospel and describing the life of faith has sometimes been dismissed as hyperbolic or idealistic. No Christian, they say, lives as confidently and as joyfully as Luther teaches. Luther, for his part, shared a vision of the Christian life with the prophets and apostles. He has spoken through this treatise to generations of Christians about a life of faith in Christ and love for the neighbor. We are indebted to Mark Tranvik for his excellent work in preparing this generation to learn from Luther anew. --Jason D. Lane, associate professor of historical theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and author of Luther's Epistle of Straw: The Voice of St. James in Reformation Preaching (De Gruyter, 2018) This reader's guide through Luther's classic essay is a splendid resource for students of all ages and stages of study. Ever the teacher, Mark D. Tranvik has here added new notes, some stimulating "thought boxes" that correct common misperceptions about Luther's theology, and a splendid map. --Paul Rorem, professor of medieval church history, emeritus, Princeton Theological Seminary, and author of Singing Church History: Introducing the Christian Story Through Hymn Texts (Fortress, 2024)