Renewing Your Mind Martin Luther and The Bondage of the Will
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Jul 21, 2025 In this insightful discussion, Stephen Nichols, president of Reformation Bible College and Ligonier Ministries, sheds light on Martin Luther's seminal work, The Bondage of the Will. He tackles the question of salvation and free will, contrasting Luther's doctrine of grace with Erasmus's views. Nichols emphasizes the importance of Scripture and historical context in understanding Luther's impact on modern theology. Listeners are encouraged to reconnect with classic Christian literature to deepen their faith and grasp the enduring legacy of the Reformation.
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Bondage of the Will Deepens Reformation Fight
- The Bondage of the Will continues Luther's fight for sola fide and sola scriptura against the church's grace plus works view.
- It deepens Reformation theology by emphasizing salvation as God's work alone, not human cooperation.
Luther's Bold, Respectful Style
- Luther's tone in The Bondage of the Will is forceful and direct, unlike Erasmus's subtle style.
- Despite the sharpness, Luther deeply respected Erasmus and dedicated the book to him.
Human Nature as Dead, Not Sick
- Luther argues we are dead in sin, not merely sick, which means no action can lead to righteousness without God.
- A proper biblical view sees salvation as God's work alone, not a cooperative human effort.
