I have now read Dr. Luther’s commentary on the book of Galatians twice. The first time was for a seminary assignment. This winter, I read it again in preparation for a sermon series. Each time, I have been struck by the way in which Luther unpacks this wonderful epistle in such an easy-to-understand way. This is partly due to the translator’s intentional desire to make Luther “talk American.” In addition, Luther walks through Galatians verse by verse and even phrase by phrase. In so doing, the book takes on the nature of a series of devotions, focusing on the rich theology found in Galatians.

The commentary originates from a series of lectures given by Luther in 1531. When the book was finally put together and published in 1539, Luther wrote in the introduction, “In my heart reigns this one article, faith in my dear Lord Christ, the beginning, middle and end of whatever spiritual and divine thoughts I may have, whether by day or by night.” That quote accurately summarizes the theme that runs throughout the commentary. The Apostle Paul wrote Galatians because the people in the city of Galatia were being deceived by Jewish false teachers, saying that they needed to add their own good works to Christ’s work of justification. In this commentary, Luther fleshes out Paul’s clear teaching that righteousness before God comes by grace through faith alone in Christ’s finished work. Luther wrestles with Paul’s Old Testament references to Abraham, pointing out that this doctrine of faith alone is found throughout Scripture. Finally, I very much appreciated Luther’s discussion on Galatians 5 and the freedom that is found in the Gospel and the fruit that comes by abiding in Christ by faith alone.

Most commentaries would be difficult to recommend for general pleasure reading. Luther’s Commentary on Galatians is an exception. It has been translated and edited in an easy-to-read manner, and the structure and layout of the book lend itself to easy devotional reading. It is very reasonable to read only one or two pages at a time and find oneself tremendously blessed. Galatians is commonly understood as Luther’s favorite book of the Bible, and his commentary would be a wonderful resource for you this year in Bible study or daily personal devotions.

Pr. Micah Hjermstad
St. Paul’s Free Lutheran Church
Fargo, ND

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