The Freedom of a Christian - 2nd Edition by Martin Luther (Paperback)

About the Book

This revised edition of Tranvik's translation brings the revolutionary zeal and theological boldness of Luther's vision in The Freedom of a Christian to a fresh audience. With helpful new study features, translation revisions, and an expanded annotated guide to further reading, this book is an accessible introduction to Luther's paradigmatic work.

Book Synopsis

Perhaps no work of Martin Luther so captures the revolutionary zeal and theological boldness of his vision as does The Freedom of a Christian. Yet, prior to the initial publication in 2008 of Mark Tranvik's new translation of this treatise, it was not easily accessible. Now, this revised and expanded edition of Tranvik's eminently accessible work brings alive the social, historical, and ecclesial content of Luther's treatise.

New features in this edition include updates to the translation; new "Questioning the Answers" study features for classroom, group, and individual reflection; and a revised and expanded annotated guide to further reading. These helpful additions complement Tranvik's informative introduction; modern, student-friendly translation; frequent headings and notes; glossary of key theological and ecclesial terms; and carefully curated collection of historical illustrations. Professors and students alike will find this updated volume to be an essential tool for understanding this distinctive turning point in Luther's theological journey. The accessibility of Tranvik's careful prose renders it similarly helpful for congregational settings.

Review Quotes

The Freedom of a Christian is one of the "greatest hits" in the history of Christianity. Mark D. Tranvik translates it here with an ear for the modern reader, reclaiming the vigor of Luther's own language and giving it new life for our times. This is a translation for all who are curious about the transformative possibilities of Luther's message. --Anna Marie Johnson, associate professor of Reformation church history, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, and author of Reforming Faith: The Wittenberg Circle and the Reformation of Christian Life (Fortress, 2026)

Luther's way of teaching the gospel and describing the life of faith has sometimes been dismissed as hyperbolic or idealistic. No Christian, they say, lives as confidently and as joyfully as Luther teaches. Luther, for his part, shared a vision of the Christian life with the prophets and apostles. He has spoken through this treatise to generations of Christians about a life of faith in Christ and love for the neighbor. We are indebted to Mark Tranvik for his excellent work in preparing this generation to learn from Luther anew. --Jason D. Lane, associate professor of historical theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and author of Luther's Epistle of Straw: The Voice of St. James in Reformation Preaching (De Gruyter, 2018)

This reader's guide through Luther's classic essay is a splendid resource for students of all ages and stages of study. Ever the teacher, Mark D. Tranvik has here added new notes, some stimulating "thought boxes" that correct common misperceptions about Luther's theology, and a splendid map. --Paul Rorem, professor of medieval church history, emeritus, Princeton Theological Seminary, and author of Singing Church History: Introducing the Christian Story Through Hymn Texts (Fortress, 2024)