Was Martin Luther Antisemitic?

Martin Luther (1483-1546).


Martin Luther, a towering figure in Christian history, is celebrated for launching the Protestant Reformation and championing theological reform from the Catholic Church. However, a lesser-known aspect of his life demands our attention. Was Martin Luther Antisemitic?

Introduction:

Martin Luther, a towering figure in Christian history, is celebrated for launching the Protestant Reformation and championing theological reform from the Catholic Church.  

However, a lesser-known aspect of his life demands our attention. Was Martin Luther Antisemitic? Yes, Luther details his disturbing expressions of antisemitism in his very own book titled “The Jews and Their Lies,” where he calls for the destruction of Jewish prayer books, the burning of their homes, and the death of their rabbis. While Luther’s contributions to religious reform are undeniable, every Christian must acknowledge and understand this dark chapter in his legacy.

This article explores the paradoxical duality of Martin Luther’s beliefs, shedding light on his early pro-Jewish stance and his later transformation into an anti-Jewish propagandist. Analyzing the historical context, theological factors, and societal implications, this article highlights the urgency of recognizing Luther’s antisemitism and its echoes in contemporary times.

The Hidden Evil of Martin Luther:

Martin Luther’s influence on the Christian faith cannot be understated. He bravely challenged the corruption within the Catholic Church, asserting the authority of the Bible over Church leadership and salvation by grace alone. His actions ignited a transformation that launched the protestant reformation and empowered individuals to read scripture for themselves. While Luther’s theological contributions and stand against corruption within the Catholic Church are widely recognized, his disturbing antisemitism has often been overshadowed.

Luther’s Early Compassion Towards Jews:

In the early stages of his ministry, Martin Luther exhibited a sympathetic attitude toward the Jewish people. His writings, such as “Jesus Christ Was Born a Jew,” expressed admiration for the Jewish heritage and emphasized the shared ancestry between Christians and Jews. Luther challenged prevailing antisemitic sentiments within Christian circles and urged fellow believers to treat Jews respectfully and kindly. 

Luther Writes:

“They will only be frightened further away from it if their Judaism is so utterly rejected that nothing is allowed to remain, and they are treated only with arrogance and scorn.”

“When we are inclined to boast of our position, we should remember that we are but Gentiles, while the Jews are of the lineage of Christ. We are aliens and in-laws; they are blood relatives, cousins, and brothers of our Lord. 

Luther concludes:

“Therefore, I would request and advise that one deal gently with them and instruct them from scripture; then some of them may come along. Instead of this, we are trying only to drive them by force…”

This period reflects Luther’s recognition of the theological and historical bonds between Christianity and Judaism. Luther’s plea for gentleness was rooted in the belief that harsh treatment would only push Jewish individuals further from accepting Jesus.

Confronting Luther’s Dark Side: The Shift towards Antisemitism:

However, Luther’s attitude darkened over time, culminating in his infamous book “On the Jews and Their Lies” (1543). This 65,000-word document is a disturbing manifesto that calls for violence against Jewish communities. Luther’s recommendations, including burning synagogues and forcing Jews into manual labor, and seizing their property, bear an eerie resemblance to the horrors perpetrated by the Nazis during the Holocaust.

Where did this Antisemitism come from? 

Looking back at Martin Luther’s journey can perplex a modern reader, wondering where this dramatic shift from compassion to hatred came from.

Luther’s growing hostility towards Jews was not isolated; it occurred in a broader historical and theological context. The prevailing social and political climate in Europe, characterized by religious tensions and economic challenges, may have contributed to the propagation of antisemitic sentiments. 

However, this shift to antisemitism was not merely the result of historical and societal nuances; it was spiritual. 

The Jewish people are special to God; they are referred to in scripture as God’s “Firstborn” (Exodus 4:22), “The Apple of His eye” (Zechariah 2), and “His special Treasure.” (Deuteronomy 7:6.).

Many know that there is a very real adversary at work. The Bible says we do not war against flesh and blood but against powers and principalities. (Ephesians 6:12)

And I can assure you, the adversary hates the Jewish people, and how heartbroken must our God be that the enemy has used his Church to do it.

Antisemitism throughout Church history: 

Many Christians today are bewildered to learn the evils of Martin Luther. Many were never taught about his dual legacy, and much of the early Church history that repeated his sentiment went unnoticed. Christians remain perplexed at why many Jewish people refuse to hear the “good news” of Jesus, when the reason is often tied to the history of antisemitism the Church has propagated.

The following quotes are directly taken from renowned men of faith within the early Church. 

Justin Martyr
Church father (100 CE- 165 CE) 
 “Oh, the promise of God made with you “Jews” are not yours, but ours… We, too, would observe your circumcision of the flesh, your sabbath days, and in a word, all of your festivals if we were not aware of the reason why they were imposed upon you, namely, because of your sins in hardness of heart.”

John Chrysostom:
Church Father/ Archbishop 347 CE -407 CE
The synagogues of the Jews are the homes of a dollar tree in Devils, even though they have no images in them. They are worse even then, heathen circuses… I hate the Jews, for they have the law, and they insult it.

Peter the Venerable: 
Church Father and Saint 1092-1156
Truly, I doubt whether a Jew can be really human… I lead out from its den, a monstrous animal, and show it as a laughingstock in the amphitheater of the world…. I bring thou forward, thou Jew, thou brute beast.”

And, of course, Martin Luther wrote:
“their houses (should) also be razed and destroyed.” “All their prayer books and Talmudic writings, in which such idolatry, lies, cursing, and blasphemy are taught, be taken from them.” “rabbis be forbidden to teach henceforth on pain of loss of life and limb.” 

“Even if they were punished in the most gruesome manner that the streets ran with their blood, that they’re dead, would be counted, not in the hundred thousands, but in the millions, they still must insist on being right…”

The Ongoing Repercussions:

Luther’s antisemitic writings had far-reaching consequences, even extending into modern times. The Holocaust, one of history’s darkest chapters, was influenced by the ideas Luther propagated.

Today, antisemitism persists, with alarming increases in recent years. Acts of hatred against Jewish individuals are rising, and the echoes of Luther’s hate-filled rhetoric still reverberate. 

According to FB, in the last three years, there has been a 350% increase in antisemitism in America.

People of Jewish descent are 500% more likely to suffer a hate crime.

A Call for Correction and Compassion:

As Christians, we must confront the shadows in our history and actively work to eradicate the seeds of antisemitism that lie dormant in the hearts of many believers today. 

We can draw inspiration from the compassionate side of Luther’s early teachings, advocating for love and grace toward the Jewish people. By acknowledging the pain caused by past actions and striving for understanding, we can begin to heal the stain the Church has left on many Jewish people throughout history.

What do we do about this pervasive antisemitism?

The goal of this article is not merely to shed light on the evil acts and writings of a man but to expose the dichotomy that exists in all of us. 

The Jewish people are a special treasure to God and the very apple of his eye. Ask the Lord to reveal any antisemitism lingering in your heart. 

Join us in prayer for the Jewish people worldwide, especially for Israel and the people there within.  

Conclusion:

Martin Luther’s legacy is a complex tapestry of reform and Jewish hatred, a reminder that even revered figures can possess conflicting traits. While we celebrate his contributions to Christian theology, we must also confront the undeniable darkness the enemy used against God’s chosen. By acknowledging this history, fostering compassion, and standing against antisemitism, we honor the true essence of Jesus’ message working towards God’s intention of unity between Jews and Gentiles. 

Lust.

40 Bible Verses About Defeating Lust. (With Commentary)

by William David

Matthew 5:28

“But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” – Matthew 5:28

Understanding Lust

As we seek to conquer the challenge of lust, it is crucial for us to understand its nature. Lust can be a powerful force that leads us away from God and into temptation. God designed us with emotions, but He wants us to channel those emotions in a manner that honors Him. By studying the Scriptures, we gain clarity on how lust can impact our relationships and ultimately our spiritual walk. Knowing the roots of this struggle helps us to effectively combat it with God’s strength and wisdom. We can remind ourselves that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, as Paul teaches us. Clarity about lust inspires us to pursue righteousness and cultivate purity in our hearts and minds.

James 1:14

“But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.” – James 1:14

1 John 2:16

“For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.” – 1 John 2:16

Proverbs 6:25

“Do not desire her beauty in your heart, and do not let her capture you with her eyelashes.” – Proverbs 6:25

Galatians 5:17

“For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh.” – Galatians 5:17

Matthew 15:19

“For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.” – Matthew 15:19

The Consequences of Lust

When we allow lust to take hold of our hearts, we can face serious consequences. Lust not only distances us from God, but it can also severely damage our relationships with others. In seeking immediate gratification, we may ignore the long-term impacts of our actions. Each moment spent indulging in lust is a moment taken away from growing deeper in our relationship with Christ. By reflecting on the consequences of lust, we can better understand why it’s crucial for us to resist temptation and walk in purity. This awareness nurtures within us a desire for holiness and strength, enabling us to make choices that honor God and preserve our integrity.

Romans 6:23

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23

Proverbs 5:5

“Her feet go down to death; her steps follow the path to Sheol.” – Proverbs 5:5

Proverbs 7:22-23

“He follows her as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as a stag is caught fast till an arrow pierces its liver.” – Proverbs 7:22-23

Ephesians 5:5

“For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.” – Ephesians 5:5

Proverbs 6:27

“Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned?” – Proverbs 6:27

The Battle Against Lust

We are all engaged in a continuous battle against lust in our lives. The good news is that we are not alone in this fight. God equips us with His Word and His Holy Spirit to help us resist temptation. Battling lust requires diligence and a commitment to guarding our hearts. We need to rely on prayer, fellowship, and accountability with others in our pursuit of purity. Each time we choose to turn away from lust, we grow stronger in our faith and deeper in our relationship with Christ. By acknowledging the struggle, we openly arm ourselves with the tools and insights needed to overcome and lead lives that are pleasing to God.

1 Corinthians 10:13

“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13

Philippians 4:13

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

2 Timothy 2:22

“So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” – 2 Timothy 2:22

Romans 13:14

“But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.” – Romans 13:14

Colossians 3:5

“Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” – Colossians 3:5

Filling Our Minds with God’s Word

If we want to defeat lust, we need to intentionally fill our minds and hearts with God’s Word. Scripture provides us with the wisdom and truth we need to navigate the alluring temptations that come our way. By meditating on God’s promises and teachings, we create a stronghold against lust. It becomes essential for us to regularly engage with the Bible and seek to understand its message for our lives. As we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, we are empowered to focus on what is pure and holy. This act of devotion helps us stay grounded in our faith and strengthens our resolve against lust.

Psalm 119:11

“I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” – Psalm 119:11

Romans 12:2

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” – Romans 12:2

Matthew 4:4

“But he answered, ‘It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” – Matthew 4:4

Psalm 1:2

“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law, he meditates day and night.” – Psalm 1:2

2 Timothy 3:16-17

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17

The Importance of Community

As we confront the issue of lust, we must recognize the importance of community in our journey. God designed us to thrive in relationships, and having a supportive group of friends can be essential for accountability. When we share our struggles with trusted brothers or sisters in Christ, we enable one another to grow stronger in our pursuit of holiness. Our community provides encouragement, perspective, and the reminder that we are not alone. Let’s actively seek fellowship with others who share our values and desires for purity. Together, we can face the battles against lust with the strength of friendship and faith as our foundation.

Hebrews 10:24-25

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” – Hebrews 10:24-25

Proverbs 27:17

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17

Galatians 6:2

“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

1 Thessalonians 5:11

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Finding Freedom in Christ

Ultimately, the path to defeating lust lies in finding our freedom in Christ. He has the power to liberate us from the chains of sin and set us on a new path of righteousness. Being filled with the Holy Spirit empowers us to resist temptation and walk in alignment with God’s will for our lives. We must actively choose to surrender our desires to Christ and draw on His strength in our daily struggles. Finding freedom in Christ elevates our perspective and helps us to discover the beauty of living in His grace. Trust in Him, and let His love be the foundation that guides us away from lust and towards purity.

John 8:36

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” – John 8:36

Romans 8:1-2

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.” – Romans 8:1-2

Galatians 5:1

“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” – Galatians 5:1

Colossians 1:13-14

“He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” – Colossians 1:13-14

1 Peter 5:10

“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” – 1 Peter 5:10

Final Thoughts

In our pursuit of defeating lust, we are called to seek understanding, embrace the consequences, and engage in the battle with alertness. Filling our minds with God’s Word is crucial as it guides us away from temptation and reinforces our faith. Community plays an essential role, supporting us through accountability and encouragement. Above all, we remember that freedom comes through Christ, who strengthens us to overcome sin.

As we reflect on these biblical truths, let us remain vigilant and committed to living in purity. Together, let’s support one another in our quest to build God-honoring lives. With God’s grace, we can conquer lust and deepen our relationship with Him.

If you’re interested in more biblical wisdom, consider exploring topics such as peace through prayer or the value of our bodies.

God Spoke.

85 Times God Spoke To His People In The Bible

Caroline Perreault Mar 9

God is a communicator.

He’s your friend, your guide, your counselor, your parent, the lover of your soul…

Of course He’s speaking to you!

The Bible is filllllllllled with examples of God dialoguing with people. 

From Scripture, we see stories that show how He talks with us: 

He speaks, leads, corrects, prepares…whispers, prompts, redirects, closes doors, opens doors.

He directly and audibly speaks, lays out step-by-step instructions…uses nature, angelic messengers, signs and supernatural events. 

He impresses with a sense or feelings of peace or joy… fills spiritual sight with visions, dreams, and pictures. 

He speaks in analogies and metaphors… shares insight into what’s to come and brings what’s presently hiding out into the open. 

He says yes, says no, and speaks through the Holy Spirit. 

And Jesus came and spoke to all of his friends (and His not-friends) just to make sure we got the message. 

You and the Lord are in a conversation.

It’s His nature to speak to you.

It’s His design to communicate with you.

The Bible (the story He’s given us to learn from and follow) is packed with Him speaking to His people. Over and over again.

Below, I’ve listed 85 examples of times God spoke to someone in the Bible, categorized by how He did it.

Before you skim the list… pause.

This isn’t just a bunch of Bible verses.

This is proof that God talks to us. He’s a conversationalist. An instructor. A partner. It reveals His personality. It teaches us to trust that He’s actively involved in our lives.

He laid this out in story after story to show you how He is, and how He wants to interact with you.

As you look over this mountain of evidence, let it open you. 

This is an invitation. 

A calling into a deeper, trusting relationship and friendship with the Lord. 

May this be a reminder to you, that He speaks. And He’s speaking to you!

Look at Him go!

A few notes before you dive in:

  • Many verses could fit into multiple categories. I just picked one category to avoid duplicates. 
  • I’ve only listed the verse references, not the details of the events. Each is linked to Bible Gateway so you can click and read the full story in context. I highly recommend doing that. Seeing for yourself how God speaks can be a big failth-builder.
  • I encourage you to take your time with this:Look up five to ten examples each day this week. Or pick twenty that stand out to you and explore them over the next few days. Or just spend a few minutes here and there digging into the ones that catch your eye.However you approach it, I hope this list encourages you and shows you just how willing God is to connect, guide, and make Himself known.

Examples of God Speaking To People Through Scripture

  1. Jesus declares He is the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy (Luke 4:16-21)
  2. Paul quotes Hosea to show prophecy fulfillment (Romans 9:25-26)
  3. Peter’s Pentecost Sermon (Acts 2:14-36)
  4. King Josiah repents (2 Kings 22:8-20)
  5. Jesus explains the Scriptures to the disciples (Luke 24:27)
  6. God reminds Israel to obey His commands (Leviticus 26:14-15)
  7. God gives the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20)
  8. God Instructs the Israelites through the Law (Amos 5)
  9. Jeremiah reminds Israel of God’s Law (Jeremiah 6:16)

Examples Of God Speaking To people In Dreams

*Let’s classify dreams as something that happens when sleeping.

  1. Joseph’s prophetic dreams (Genesis 37)
  2. Jacob’s Ladder (Genesis 28:10-22)
  3. Pharaoh’s dream (Genesis 41)
  4. God’s warning to Abimelek (Genesis 20:1-7)
  5. God instructs Laban (Genesis 31:22-24)
  6. Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker tell Joseph their dreams (Genesis 40)
  7. God offers wisdom to Solomon (1 Kings 3:1-15)
  8. Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream (Daniel 2)
  9. Daniel interprets a dream (Daniel 4)
  10. Joseph’s dream to escape Egypt with baby Jesus (Matthew 2:13-18)
  11. Joseph’s dream to go back to Jerusalem with baby Jesus (Matthew 2:19-23)
  12. The Wise Men are warned about their travel route (Matthew 1:1-12)
  13. Pilate’s wife is burdened by a dream about Jesus (Matthew 27:19)

Examples Of God Speaking To People In Visions

*Let’s classify visions as something that happens when awake.

  1. Ezekial’s vision of the glory of the Lord (Ezekiel 1)
  2. The Lord’s covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15)
  3. Nathan’s vision for David (2 Samuel 7:1-17)
  4. Isaiah’s Commission (Isaiah 6)
  5. The Valley of Dry Bones (Ezekiel 37)
  6. Daniel’s vision of future kingdoms (Daniel 7-12)
  7. Peter’s vision of the sheet (Acts 10:9-23)
  8. Ananias’ vision to visit Paul (Acts 9:10-16)
  9. Cornelius’ vision of an angel (Acts 10:1-7)
  10. John’s Revelation (All of Revelation)
  11. Jeremiah talks with God (Jeremiah 1)

Examples of God Speaking Directly to People 

*Let’s include personal encounters, speaking audibly, and other events that are unmistakably God or His voice.

  1. Moses and the burning bush (Exodus 3)
  2. God speaks to Samuel for the first time (1 Samuel 3)
  3. God’s instructions to Adam and Eve (Genesis 2:15-17)
  4. Saul’s conversion (Acts 9:1-19)
  5. God banishes Cain (Genesis 4:1-15)
  6. God tells Moses the people are worshiping other gods (Exodus 32)
  7. God defends Moses to Aaron and Miriam (Numbers 12:1-9)
  8. Joshua is called to lead (Joshua 1:1-19)
  9. David dialogues with God (2 Samuel 2:1)
  10. Jesus is baptized (Matthew 3:16-17)
  11. The Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36)
  12. Jesus has conversations with people after His crucifixion (Throughout The Gospels) 
  13. Moses parts the Red Sea (Exodus 14)
  14. Moses puts the bronze snake on a pole (Numbers 21:4-9)
  15. Ezekiel’s call to be a prophet (Ezekiel 2)
  16. God speaks to Job (Job 38)

Examples of God Speaking To People Through The Holy Spirit

  1. Paul and the man from Macedonia (Acts 16:6-10)
  2. Simeon is led to Jesus (Luke 2:25-27)
  3. Philip and the Ethiopian official (Acts 8:29)
  4. Barnabas and Saul are called (Acts 13:1-3)
  5. Paul is warned of hardship (Acts 20:22-24)
  6. Bezalel, the Artisan (Exodus 31:1-11)
  7. David’s last words (2 Samuel 23:1-7)
  8. The three men and Peter (Acts 10:19-20)
  9. Nehemiah senses a stirring to rebuild Jerusalem’s wall (Nehemiah 2)

Examples of God Speaking Through Angelic Messengers

  1. An angel speaks strength to Gideon (Judges 6:11-24)
  2. An angel comes to Mary (Luke 1:26-38)
  3. Jacob wrestles with an angel (Genesis 32:22-32)
  4. Hagar meets an angel (Genesis 16:7-12)
  5. An angel stops Abraham from sacrificing Isaac (Genesis 22)
  6. Samson’s birth is announced (Judges 13)
  7. An angel ministers to Elijah (1 Kings 19:1-18)
  8. Jesus’ birth is announced to shepherds (Luke 2:8-14)

Examples of God Speaking Through Prophets, Words of Knowledge, and Wise Counsel

  1. God sends Nathan to speak to David (2 Samuel 12:1-14)
  2. Moses leads and teaches the people of Israel (Exodus-Deuteronomy)
  3. Elijah and Elisha deliver powerful messages from the Lord (1 Kings 17- 2 Kings 13)
  4. Samuel speaks God’s judgment to Saul (1 Samuel 15)
  5. Elijah announces a great drought (1 King 17:1)
  6. Elisha reveals the plans of the enemy (2 Kings 6:12)
  7. Jeremiah warns of exile (Jeremiah 25)
  8. Jonah’s warning to Nineveh (Jonah 3)
  9. John The Baptist declares Jesus as the Messiah (John 1:29-31)
  10. Agabus prophesies a famine throughout Rome (Acts 11:27-30)

Examples of God Speaking To People Through Nature, Signs, Wonders, and The Supernatural 

  1. A cloud and fire to guide the Israelites (Exodus 13:21-22)
  2. Daniel deciphers the writing on the wall (Daniel 5)
  3. God whispers to Elijah (1 Kings 19:11-13)
  4. Balaam’s donkey speaks (Numbers 22:21-41)
  5. Gideon’s fleece (Judges 6:36-40)
  6. Jonah is swallowed by a whale (Jonah 1-2)
  7. God speaks through thunder, lightening, and a trumpet blast (Exodus 19:16-25)
  8. The rainbow covenant (Genesis 9:1-17)
  9. The earth shook after Jesus’ crucifixion (Matthew 27:51)
  10. God speaks Creation into being (Genesis 1)