Attached Paper Annual Meeting 2024

Offering "an Opportunity to Come to Terms" before Taking the Sword. Luther on Princes, Peasants, and Peace.

Abstract for Online Program Book (maximum 150 words)

In May 1525, Luther published a fiery pamphlet titled Against the Robbing and Murdering Hordes of Peasants. Luther found little understanding for rebelling against legal authorities with violent actions, especially when conducted under the name of Christ. Before encouraging rulers to take the sword to strike the rebels down, he advised them to offer the peasants an opportunity to come to terms, “even though they are not worthy of it.” This paper presents a historical arch, examining the development of Luther’s political and theological thought behind the well-known pamphlet. The paper examines the shifts in the historical context affecting Luther’s theological connotations, claiming that the idea of peace as a primary solution remains in Luther’s societal teaching while promoting the ruler’s duty to carry the sword. The paper presents changes in Luther’s biblical teaching related to the lived experiences in the 1520s in the ever-changing societal and ecclesial realms.