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This volume contains a selection of forty-three sermons arranged in chronological order. Beginning with what may be Luther's earliest extant sermon and ending with the last he delivered before his death, this collection of sermons can give the reader a glimpse into the Reformer's development as a preacher. As Luther's insight into the meaning of the Gospel grew, not only did he set aside its misinterpretations, but he also began to shed forms and methods of preaching inherited from late scholasticism. The power of the gospel, if it was to accomplish its task of creating and sustaining faith, had to be proclaimed with simplicity and directness. Luther's preaching is characterized by its concentration upon the gospel as well as the listeners. The late Dr John W Doberstein, editor and translator of this volume, was professor in practical theology at the Lutheran Theological Seminary, Philadelphia.
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