Luther's Works Vol. 2 - Galatians

Martin Luther's Commentaries constitute essential reference material, not only for understanding his reformist activity but also for comprehending the change in the method of biblical exegesis and exposition that occurred after the Reformation. Luther's hermeneutical principle is based on the premise that God reveals Himself in Scripture and not in the ecclesiastical structure, thus giving Scripture undeniable authority.

In Galatians, Luther emphasizes the difference between law and gospel, a topic that holds a prominent place in his theology. His key text is Galatians 2:16, where Paul declares that man is justified not by the works of the Law, but by faith in Christ. Luther invigorates exegesis by inserting it into history and assigns it the role of an instrument for criticizing the system of doctrines. His exegetical works thus acquire a vibrant relevance. Exegesis understood in this way is a response to many concrete situations affecting the contemporary Church.