“The Profound Religiousness of Luther”: Martin Luther — Heretic or Hero of Faith?

Abstract

The article aims to answer the question whether Luther should be considered a heretic or whether he can be seen as a hero of faith? An important basis for such an answer are first the statements of the popes of the last forty years, and then Luther’s affirmation as a deeply religious personality. Further indications are provided by the results of historical research, which show that Luther was deeply rooted in the mystical theology of his time. This is evident in his way of practising theology, where his own experience of faith has become the leading source of theological understanding. Luther’s theology is existential one, and the doctrine of justification must also be seen in this perspective. For Luther, justification by faith was above all a living, spiritual experience in his personal relationship with God, which at the same time determined his theological reflection. Keeping in mind the controversial issues, it can be stated that Luther remained in his reforming intentions rooted in the Catholic tradition of faith. Luther is neither a heretic, nor does he have to be considered a hero of the faith—he is above all a reforming theologian, who has his place in the one Catholic Church.