Luther on Inspiration

Abstract

In this comprehensive study, Dr. Siegbert W. Becker defends Martin Luther’s unwavering belief in the verbal and plenary inspiration of Scripture. Responding to modern misinterpretations, Becker demonstrates that Luther consistently affirmed the Bible as the inerrant Word of God, spoken by God through human authors. He refutes claims that Luther doubted biblical authority, citing Luther’s reverence for even the “trivialities” of Scripture and his insistence that God cannot lie. Becker explores Luther’s views on the canon, especially his rejection of James, not as a denial of inerrancy but as a defense of it. He highlights Luther’s opposition to speculative theology and neo-orthodox views that treat Scripture as conditionally inspired. Through extensive quotations, Becker shows that Luther regarded every word of Scripture as divinely given, trustworthy, and foundational for Christian faith and assurance. The essay affirms Luther’s alignment with historic orthodoxy on biblical inspiration and inerrancy. Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).