Christian History Home > Issue 34 > The Political Luther
The Political Luther
The reformer revolutionized more than people's views on the church.
Dr. Lewis W. Spitz is William R. Kenan University Professor of History at Stanford University. He is author of numerous books, including The Protestant Reformation, 1517–1559 (Harper & Row, 1985). | posted 4/01/1992 12:00AM
During the Schmalkaldic War, which broke out after Martin Luther’s death, the Spanish troops defeated the Protestant princes and overran much of Saxony, including Wittenberg.
When the Spanish soldiers stood at Luther’s grave in the Castle Church, they demanded that Luther’s body be exhumed and his bones burned as befits a heretic.
But Emperor Charles V stopped them. He is said to have declared: “I do not make war on dead men!”
This story seems to be a golden legend, but it shows the passions Luther aroused. The Reformation Luther began was not merely a theological dispute but an event that disturbed all areas of life—social, economic, and political.
Pragmatic Philosopher
Luther’s writings on church and state profoundly challenged the prevailing views. He formed his ideas, however, not as a political philosopher but as a person confronting real situations.
His correspondence, especially during the last fifteen years of his life, shows him constantly involved in political situations, advising ... To view this item, you must be a member of ChristianHistory.net.
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