Summary: | This study of Luther's writings on the Epistle to the Galatians begins with a demonstration of the necessity to take more seriously the original prints of Luther's 'commentaries'. The Weimarer Ausgabe reflects modern, especially 19th century, biases in regard to understanding the task and nature of a commentary. Kenneth Hagen's project is to make Luther's purposes clear and thus to make Luther's thought accessible without the filters of modern approaches to Scripture. Since modern editions tend to act as such filters, the Weimarer Ausgabe is critiqued and Luther's approach to Scripture comes alive. Since a modern understanding of a commentary differs greatly from a 16th century understanding, Luther's definition of commentary is explored. Hagen shows how Luther understood the commentary - or better, Enarratio - to be a public application of the text in a struggle with the demonic forces which assail the Christian. Luther is shown in his medieval and 'catholic' context and contrasted with the Rotterdam humanist, Erasmus. That 16th century contrast reflects earlier contrasts between Augustine and Jerome, and between Paul and his opponents in Galatia. The thorough study of pivotal portions of Luther's writings on Galatians demonstrates how Luther sought to emulate the 'grammar of faith'. Luther saw his struggle as the one in which Paul was engaged.
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