The troubled conscience, in view of God's judgment, has no remedy against desperation and eternal death, unless it takes hold of the forgiveness of sins by grace, freely offered in Christ Jesus, which if it can apprehend, it may then be at rest. Then it can boldly say: I seek not active or working righteousness, for if I had it, I could not trust it, neither dare I set it against the judgment of God. Then I abandon myself from all active righteousness, both of my own and of God's law, and embrace only that passive righteousness, which is the righteousness of grace, mercy, and forgiveness of sins. I rest only upon that righteousness, which is the righteousness of Christ and of the Holy Ghost.

— Martin Luther, “Declaration” in his Commentary on Galatians

It doesn't get any better than this, does it?

#Luther #quotes #theology

Why shall I be worried with anxiety and care on account of temporal need and provision? From what source does God give us the corn in the field and all fruits, since the world with all her wisdom is not able to create a straw, a leaf or a little flower? Since Christ, my Lord and God, does such things daily, why then shall I be worried, or doubt as to whether he can or will sustain my bodily existence?

— Martin Luther, Sermon for the Seventh Sunday After Trinity

#quotes #Luther #theology

There is a clear and present danger that the devil may take away from us the pure doctrine of faith and may substitute for it the doctrines of works and of human traditions. It is very necessary, therefore, that this doctrine of faith be continually read and heard in public. No matter how well known it may be or how carefully learned, the devil, our adversary, who prowls around and seeks to devour us (1 Peter 5:8), is not dead. Our flesh also goes on living. Besides, temptations of every sort attack and oppress us on every side. Therefore this doctrine can never be discussed and taught enough. If it is lost and perishes, the whole knowledge of truth, life, and salvation is lost and perishes at the same time. But if it flourishes, everything good flourishes—religion, true worship, the glory of God, and the right knowledge of all things and of all social conditions.

— Martin Luther, Luther’s Works, Vol. 26: Lectures on Galatians, 1535

(Note: There are very few commentaries that I would ever recommend a Christian take up and read cover to cover just for edification; however Luther's great Galatians commentary is one that every believer should purchase and read slowly, from beginning to end. It is a devotional work of such depth and richness that you will not be disappointed. I promise.)

#Luther #quotes #theology

We must not imagine that we shall have peace from Satan. He takes no vacation and does not sleep. Choose, then, whether you prefer to wrestle with the devil or whether you prefer to belong to him.

— Martin Luther, 1527 (AE 37:17)

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