A Defence of an Author’s Translation – Part 3

If my points above stand, then there are at least three reasons why an individual may be justified in presenting a new translation of a text. This is, actually, very common in academic articles, papers, and commentaries. Is this something, though, that only academics are permitted to do? The reasons I have given above justify … Continue reading A Defence of an Author’s Translation – Part 3

A Defence of an Author’s Translation – Part 2

Second, consider the shortcomings of book marketing and copyright laws that make such translations necessary. Modern translations are not open source. They are owned by organizations and governed by the laws protecting intellectual property. Therefore, the ability for a person not affiliated with such an organization to use these translations is seriously limited. Seriously limited … Continue reading A Defence of an Author’s Translation – Part 2

Luther’s Sola Scriptura Part 3: Sufficiency

Throughout Luther’s attacks on Roman doctrine, he makes his primary appeals to Scripture, enlisting the Father’s support only to show his ideas were not novel. In stark contrast, as exemplified by the Papal Bulls, his opponents considered the Fathers and Councils to be additional sources for doctrine alongside the authoritative Scriptures. Of the errors condemned … Continue reading Luther’s Sola Scriptura Part 3: Sufficiency

Luther’s Sola Scriptura Part 1 – Inerrancy and Authority

In the controversy that followed the posting of Luther’s 95 theses in 1517, it is readily apparent Luther and his opponents are vast distances from one another on the question of interpretive authority. Luther’s opponents agreed with him on the infallibility or inerrancy of Scripture (the nature of being free from error) and its authority, … Continue reading Luther’s Sola Scriptura Part 1 – Inerrancy and Authority

Luther’s Hermeneutic

Central to Luther's doctrine of Scripture was the claim that Scripture was clear; from this doctrine of the clarity (or perspicuity) of Scripture came Luther's method of interpretation (or hermeneutic). Because the clarity of Scripture is a property of the text itself on account of God’s authorship, Luther’s primary hermeneutical approach is prayerful mediation upon … Continue reading Luther’s Hermeneutic