This is an upper-level introduction to the German Reformer Martin Luther, who by his thought and action started the Reformation movement. Martin Luther was one of the most influential and important figures of the second millennium. His break with Rome and the development of separate Evangelical churches affected not just the religious life of Europe but also social and political landscapes as well. More books have been written about Luther than nearly any other historical figure. Despite all these books, Luther remains an enigmatic figure. This book proposes to examine a number of key moments in Luther's life and fundamental theological positions that remain perplexing to most students. This book will also present an introduction to the primary sources available to a student and important secondary works that ought to be consulted. The Guides for the Perplexed series are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that students and readers can find especially challenging - or indeed downright bewildering. Concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to grasp, these books explain and explore key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding material.

I. Introduction to Luther's Life and Times: Chapter 1: Luther's Late Medieval Context Chapter 2: Luther's Life II. Luther's Theology for the Perplexed Chapter 3: Justification by Faith: The Three Solas Chapter 4: Law and Gospel Chapter 5: The Bondage of the Will: Debating Erasmus Chapter 6: Sacraments Chapter 7: The Church Chapter 8: Apocalypticism and the Antichrist III. Luther's Social and Political Engagements Chapter 9: The Peasants' War Chapter 10: Soldiers, War, and the Turks Chapter 11: Politics, Authority, and Just Resistance Chapter 12: The Late Luther: On the Jews and other Controversial Writings