Issues, Etc. Martin Luther’s “On the Bondage of the Will” – Dr. Cameron MacKenzie, 10/30/25 (3032)
Oct 30, 2025
Dr. Cameron MacKenzie, a historical theology professor at Concordia Theological Seminary, dives into Martin Luther's influential work, On the Bondage of the Will. He explains why this text isn't in the Book of Concord and discusses the appeal it holds for Calvinists due to its focus on God's sovereignty. The conversation also covers Erasmus's evolving relationship with Luther, biblical interpretations within the debate, and the pastoral comfort derived from understanding salvation as God's work. MacKenzie emphasizes the importance of studying these theological themes for effective pastoral training.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Luther Valued This Work Highly
- Luther considered On the Bondage of the Will one of his most important works and thought it worth preserving alongside the catechisms.
- The work shaped Reformation debates because it paired the era's leading reformer with its leading humanist scholar, Erasmus.
Why It’s Not In The Book Of Concord
- Bondage of the Will stands as one side of a major polemic and requires reading Erasmus to grasp the full debate.
- Its polemical, single-sided nature and limited later use kept it out of the Book of Concord.
Sovereignty Frames Luther’s Argument
- Luther framed the book as affirming God's sovereignty: human will is bound because God is God.
- That emphasis on divine sovereignty explains why many Calvinists appreciate the work.
