Luther on the Christian Life: Cross and Freedom by Carl R. Trueman

Luther on the Christian Life: Cross and Freedom Reviews

• 
  Mark Nenadov

  This is now the third book I've read in the "Theologians on the Christian life" series by Crossway, edited by Justin Taylor and Stephen J. Nicholls. The author, Carl Trueman (apparently not related to the other Mr. Trueman, the jailor in John Bunyan's Holy War), is perhaps the Reformed/Presbyterian community's "resident Luther expert."
  
  Though I will freely grant his importance as a Reformer and influence on Western Christianity and I respect him as "the father of Protestantism," for whatever reason I've rarely found myself excited to read a book by or about Martin Luther. But I have an inability to say no to books that call my name, so alas, here I go.
  
  This book has a different flavor than the other two I've read. Certainly there is less of a popular feel to it, and it gets into more involved areas of theology and ecclesiology to an extent which I haven't seen in other books in this series. Trueman's command of his subject shines through a bit more brightly than Nicholls on Bonhoeffer or Ortlund on Edwards. Though Ortlund and Nicholls' books have some areas of strength comparatively speaking, Trueman generally handles his subject in a way that instills more confidence in the accuracy and evenness of the portrayal.
  
  Trueman paints Luther skilfully and fairly. I especially appreciated Trueman's discussion of humor in the conclusionand also the section where he speaks about the misunderstanding of Luther's teaching on sanctification. I also found the discussion of "anfechtungen" to be surprisingly lucid.
  
  I can't say that Trueman has "blown me away" with this book, either. On the negative side, I feel like he sort of got bogged down in discussing historical aspects of Luther's views and practices on liturgy and the sacraments. I'm not saying that these things aren't relevant. They clearly are. However, I feel like they sort of crowded out other aspects that may have been slightly underdeveloped. It seems that he was just sort of rushing to fit in vocation, marriage, children, etc.
  
  That said, though, Trueman has delivered a solid presentation on what we can learn from Martin Luther on the Christian life. It is detailed, well-organized, conveys enthusiasm, interesting, and useful. What more can we ask for? It is a profitable read and well worth taking the time to work through.
• 
  JD Veer

  Honestly, one of most challenging and awesome reads of the last few years. I've learned so much. By challenging, I really mean that it questioned conclusions that I had for a long time. I had and still have to reevaluate the assurance of some of my positions I've held for so long, and maybe even change my position. Only time will tell here.
  
  We are beggars. This is true. (And the reformation is not all you think it is!)
• 
  Scott

  One of my favorite authors writing about one of my first favorite subjects in church history. A spectacular addition to a great series!
• 
  Brian

  Simply excellent! One of the best entries in this series.
• 
  Jon Jester

  Maybe the best biography I've ever read, and maybe the best book on the reformation I've read.
• 
  Jackson Greer

  I always enjoy reading Trueman. I thought he did a great job at capturing Luther. I leave with a greater appreciation and understanding of the great reformer.
• 
  James Bunyan

  Just wonderful!
• 
  Grayson Gilbert

  In similar accord to Bonhoeffer and Lewis, Luther is often marginalized by the appeal to a broader evangelical context than he would fit within during his own lifetime. Trueman, recognizing the weaknesses of this approach, argues for a more sensible reading in moving beyond the modernly-evangelicalized Luther by studying the real Luther; the systematic thinking, often bombastic, Christian man, in his own historical context (22).
  
  The reason for moving beyond this one-dimensional study of Luther is painfully obvious: we can never be challenged with a shallow reading focusing only upon areas of agreement. In the scope of many other works on Luther, Trueman devotes time discussing Luther’s high sacramentology, his post-1525 writings, the historical/personal context shaping his theological advancements, and the distinction to being a “theologian of the cross” as opposed to a “theologian of glory.”
  
  Trueman’s basic framework draws mainly from Table Talk publications (among other notable works) in the following structure. Chapter one describes Luther’s biographical life, particularly linking Luther’s early life experiences to his existential crises, leading to the dominating shift into a Law-Gospel theology. Beyond this, Trueman highlights specific events shaping Luther’s theology, for example: The Bondage of the Will being not only a response to Erasmus, but undermining the authority of the Papacy. The second and third chapters deal more extensively with Luther’s understanding of the “theologian of the cross,” and subsequently, the power of the Word preached. Thus, the true “theologian of the cross” will be dominated by the idea of the scripture’s supremacy and power to effectively change the hearts of hearers.
  
  The fourth and fifth chapters respectively deal with Luther’s liturgical values and how the Word addresses individual souls. Thus, maturation in the Christian life is not simply one of rote memorization and catechesis, but a profoundly moral exercise intended to grip our affections for God by the knowledge of scripture. Chapter 6 draws out Luther’s sacramentology on the effectiveness and importance of baptism and the presence of Christ in the Lord’s Supper. Chapter seven draws upon Luther’s response to the “long-haul,” recognizing the Immanent Return of Christ was delayed beyond his expectations, thus forcing a structured response to Christian living in lieu of licentiousness and antinomian tendencies. Finally, in chapter 8, Trueman reveals Luther’s pastoral nature, specifically with the ordinary aspects of every day life and common struggles of believers.
  
  Trueman fairly reveals Luther, warts and all, as a sinner justified in Christ, mastered by the ideals of being a “theologian of the cross.” This was evidenced in seemingly small ways, such as a tract written on prayer for a barber, yet ultimately, in his ability to effectively point to the cross as a source of perseverance through doubt, trial, the pain of death, and the common struggles of man. Personally, what resonated most deeply was the pastoral devotion Luther had for his congregants, sparing time for hospitality, developing catechisms for the maturation of their faith, and utilizing the cross as the means by which we grow to love God. For the clarity with which Trueman writes and this brief, yet illuminating work upon the life of Luther, I would wholeheartedly recommend this book.
  
  
  
  Disclosure: I received this book free from Crossway Books through the Beyond the Page book reviewer program. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
  http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa....
  
  Find other book reviews @ gilsongraybert.wordpress.com
• 
  Cole Brown

  Carl Trueman is given a difficult task: summarize Luther's interesting life and profound theology and focus specifically and how it applies to the Christian life. What's more, he has to do all of this within 215 pages and on a popular reading level. Thankfully, he succeeds. I highly recommend this as an introduction to Luther and his theology or, if already familiar with both, as a means of reflecting on how both can guide us in our living the Christian life today.
• 
  Colin

  I loved this book. Trueman has created a work that is both substantial and accessible. As an academic, he has kindly done the hard work of descending the mine shaft of Luther's words and emerging back onto the surface - where most of us live - with a sack of precious ore only found deep underground.
  
  But he then refines and applies and demonstrates that, although profound, Luther's writings and reflections have much to offer me in my doubting, my pride, my weakness, my self-reliance and 21st century individualism.
  
  What could easily be met with a "Yeah. Got that." is stirred over a slow heat to let the aroma - and nutrition - of "Christ is enough" do it's life-saving, life-wide work. Trueman's recipe is historical, theological and sociological - a masterful combination that looses some brilliant heart-arrows from the life and writings of Luther into the heart of the reader.
  
  The theologian of glory Vs the theologian of the cross comparison is observed, explained and applied brilliantly. Word and sacrament as the great summary of Christian ministry is likewise probed with practical implications for shepherd and flock alike. ("In the gospel, God doesn't find, he creates." Gold.) The chapter on life and death is potent, personal and powerful. Luther's family life - the death of his dear little Magdalene, the delight of his marriage to Katie - are full of moving - as well as amusing - authenticity, shaped so vitally by the gospel.
  
  Carl Trueman is an author who loves to stir, raise hackles, touch nerves and provoke. His clear familiarity with and affection for Luther explains much of what flavours his work. But this never feels like fanboy nerdism. Luther's shortcomings, faults and the developing nature of his theology are not glossed over. Clearly the man had his faults.
  
  But I love that ultimately what the life of Luther to offers me is a fresh call to look to our big God and His stunning work in saving for himself a people to know Him in Christ, together shaped and served by word and sacrament.
  
  This book has a vital message for us as believers and disciples, for church members, pastors and teachers alike. I thank Carl Trueman for introducing me to the life and times and truths that shaped Luther and for using the reformer's remarkable walk of faith to help shape my own.
• 
  Laurabeth

  Enjoyable!
  
  Carl Trueman's goal is clear: to lay out Luther's life events and then delve into his doctrines and beliefs. He dispels myths surrounding Luther by expanding the lens from Luther as an optimistic reformer in his early days to Luther being disillusioned in his later years with the non-immediate success of the Reformation. The result is a complex life with highs and lows.
  
  Highs: Luther's emphatic stance that assurance of salvation is looking always at Christ and His work, not introspection of doubt when it arises. Being a follower of Christ extends to every aspect of life, not just on Sundays.
  
  Lows: later in life, Luther became very antisemitic in his writings and teachings which later was used by Nazis in their propaganda. Terrible.
  
  Definitely a helpful book to read before or after reading Luther's own writings to bring greater scope to his work.
• 
  Joel Zartman

  One of the things this book endeavors is to contrast Luther with contemporary evangelicalism. It is done in the interest of historical accuracy and proper Christian memory of the past, but also in the interests of contemporary evangelicals. Christian history is a great repository of wisdom, insight and warnings, but we have to get it right to obtain the benefits. Trueman's message about Luther is: accept no substitutes, they aren't worth it. It's a good book.
• 
  Nickolas Hartman

  It’s hard for me not give 5 starts to anything Trueman writes. He is a leader in reformation thought and philosophical presentation. This Luther biography was easy to read, not only that it was entirely applicable to ministry. A change of pace to some biographies. Trueman did a great job focusing not only in the major highlights but also the theological formation that stood on the entirety of Luther’s life.
• 
  Parker Haines

  I continue to really enjoy this crossway series, but the books range in quality quite a bit depending on author. I am really glad I read this one and feel like I have a much better understand of Luther’s life, theology and ministry. The book spent a good amount of time seeking to help readers press past the current evangelical popular reconstruction of Luther and see him in a fuller sense. Would recommend to those who enjoy biography!
• 
  David Morrison

  Colourful character
  
  This book brough the great reformed to life with colour and clarity. So many lessons for 21st century believers to help us to continue to walk according to the glory of God.
• 
  Mark Loughridge

  A dense enough book, but packed with great insight and application. Really enjoyed it - especially the chapter on the theology of the Word preached
• 
  Jon Green

  As someone who didn't know much about the life and theology of Luther beyond they most basic facts I felt this book was a good introduction and primer. I'm interested in reading more books in this series and more of Luther because of this book.
• 
  Lisa

  Nice read and great blend of what really matters about Luther with a bit of biography and how it can impact us today....
• 
  Dora Smith

  decent explanation of Lutheran theology
  
  My rating of this book may change over time as I learn what others write about Luther on the same topics. At times I have to wonder how much Trueman’s own excessively conservative “Orthodox Presbyterianism” bent his perception’s of Luther’s theology, especially when it comes to the nature of God and how people are justified before him. The God of Trueman’s Luther is awesome, terrifying, punitive, and well characterized by the joyously terrifying world of manic depression. On the one hand both Trueman and I think Luther had manic depression. Trueman thinks it is Christ in whom Luther learned to place his faith. Trueman also presents Luther as convinced everyone must come to God by suffering from deep depression, repeatedly, as that job is never finished. I think Luther’s expectations on a pastoral level were far healthier than that. Luther explicitly realized that God presented a very different face through the death of his son on the cross. More reading will shed more light on this.
  
  However the book cleared up for me a number of things that have remained mysterious since becoming a Lutheran, such as, what is the theology of the cross, what is the Lutheran concept of love, why in theological terms do we need law when we are saved through baptism and made right with God by faith through grace, what is the role of grace, what is special about the Ten Commandments, and why is the Short Catechism worded so strangely, did Luther write it and if so what on Earth. This book by a crabby and bigoted old Presbyterian is a remarkably good resource for someone new to Lutheranism, though probably shouldn’t be read alone or without recourse to a pastor to debrief with. On some topics the author’s straightforward conservatism is helpful, especially making sense of the Lutheran concept of love. According to Truesdale Luther’s concept of love is not sentimental or buggy. In the Bible love is always mentioned in some context. The concept refers to people acting toward each other in helpful ways to live together as and maintain community. Luther’s treatment of the Ten Commandments in the Short Catechism is typical of New Testsment teaching on love. This is often muddled by Lutherans with how the theology of the cross teaches us how to think about each other; never assuming that misfortune is all of the information, the end of the matter, or something people deserve.
• 
  Richard Lawrence

  This is a great book that addresses exactly what its title says.
  
  Carl Trueman aims to give a synthesis of Luther's views on christian living from across the breadth of Luther's teaching and both his earlier and later works.
  
  Luther saw the christian life as a see-saw that simplistically be presented as:
  1. you're pushed down by sin and doubt and despair of one kind or another
  2. you hear the word preached and receive the bread and wine and rise up again in joy
  3. return to step 1
  
  Obviously this model centred around regular church attendance - where else would you hear the word. Though Carl Trueman also discusses Luther's teaching on a daily lived out christian life, love demonstrated in action in all of life.
  
  There's a lot of great practical wisdom here - we may not agree with Luther on everything and yet he has much to offer.
  
  My one criticism of the book is the writing style, it feels unnecessarily verbose and in places overly casual. I think it could have been 10% shorter without removing any content. Also I think an editor may have gone through changing random male pronouns to gender neutral or female ones to make the book sound more "appropriate" -I sincerely doubt that Carl Trueman, the quintessential Christian Grumpy old man, had made some of those linguistic chooses.
• 
  Alice Gent

  An interesting, honest and down to earth look at the theology of Luther, with a particular basis to how it looked day by day and our implications for today. I found this book difficult to start with. Chapter 1 was a brief overview of his life, but Chapter 2 needed assumed foreknowledge about nominalism and some medieval world views. I thought this book wouldn't be for me, but this disappears in the future Chapters where it becomes much more readable and interesting. I was helpful to see how different some of Luther's beliefs were to the typical evangelical Christian of today, particularly on baptism and the Lord's Supper. This is challenging me to think more deeply and to look for areas in my beliefs that I have just accepted blindly. I certainly feel like I know a lot more about Luther now and will always be challenged to not be a theologian of glory!
• 
  JT Stead

  This is the second book I have read in this series and I thoroughly enjoyed this. I agree with Trueman that Luther (and I would argue Spurgeon) is one of the most “human” theologians to study. Luther is idolized by many modern evangelicals yet so much of their theology would be criticized by Luther. Trueman is also a phenomenal writer and an obvious expert on Luther. There were so many points throughout this book that were impactful, convicting, and eye-opening. As a Pastor this book was extremely helpful, I even took 3 of our interns through it and they loved it.
  
  As a particular baptist myself learning form Luther the theological categories of: “Law and gospel”, theologian of glory vs theologian of the cross, the objectivity of Christ in His word, and the anfechtungen were so helpful to read and understand.
  
  One of the best books on Luther in my opinion.
• 
  Vaclav

  These series are very good because they help me to understand the theologian written about and their overall teaching on the Christian life as applied for our times. And this great book on Luther and his thoughts on the Christian life, in particular, the gospel of the cross and the freedom of the Christian is a treasure trove to read and re-read.
  
  Here's a quote from the book "There is also a sense in which all Christians are people divided against themselves: clothed in the righteousness of Christ and yet always striving to justify themselves by their own righteousness. That inner conflict is part of the very essence of what it means to be a Christian in a fallen world this side of glory."
• 
  Rex Blackburn

  This isn't a fair rating. The book was just not at all what I expected it to be. I came into it expecting something like Reinke's 'Newton on the Christian Life,' but that's not at all what I found. I guess that speaks to the differences between the authors and the subjects themselves.
  
  I'm sure this book had so much more to offer than I was able to get, but my expectations, the style, and my current life situation all conspired to make this a difficult book to push through.
  
  I'll definitely try again in a few years!
• 
  Hank Pharis

  This is a very good survey of Luther's life and theology. The title however is a little misleading as the book is not primarily about Luther on the Christian Life but more all of his life and theology.
  
  (Note: I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book. 3 = Very good; 4 = Outstanding {only about 5% of the books I read merit this}; 5 = All time favorites {one of these may come along every 400-500 books})