Luther on pride and preachers: The Holy Scriptures require a humble reader who shows reverence and fear toward the Word of God and constantly says, Teach me, teach me, teach me! The Spirit resists the proud. Though they study diligently and some preach Christ purely for a time, nevertheless God excludes them from the church if theyre proud. Wherefore every proud person is a heretic, if not actually, then potentially. However, its difficult for a man who has excellent gifts not to be arrogant. Those whom God adorns with great gifts he plunges into the most severe trials in order that they may learn that theyre nothing. Paul got a thorn in the flesh to keep him from being haughty. And if Philip were not so afflicted he would have curious notions. When on the other hand Jacob and Agricola are haughty and despise their teachers and learning, I fear it may be done with them. I knew the spirit of Münzer, Zwingli, and Karlstadt. Pride drove the angel out of heaven and spoils many preachers. Accordingly its humility thats needed in the study of sacred literature. LW 54 Table Talk No. 5017
Posted on: Sat, 23 Aug 2014 12:30:00 +0000
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