CHAPTER VIII. THE COMMENTARY ON THE EPISTLE TO

THE GALATIANS. FIRST DISPUTATIONS AND FIRST TRIUMPHS _pages_ 303-326

1. ”THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE GOSPEL BUSINESS.” EXPOSITION OF THE EPISTLE TO THE GALATIANS (1516-17).

Melanchthon and Mathesius on the birth of the “Evangel.” Luther’s first disciples, Carlstadt, Amsdorf, etc. His appeals to St. Augustine. The Commentary on Galatians begins in 1516. Luther’s progress in the light of this and the longer Commentary published later _pages_ 303-310

2. DISPUTATIONS ON MAN’S POWERS AND AGAINST SCHOLASTICISM (1516-17).

Bernhardi’s Disputation in 1516 presided over by Luther; “Man sins in spite of every effort.” Luther to Lang on the scandal of the “Gabrielists.” Günther’s Disputation in 1517; specimens of the theses defended; Luther circulates them widely _pages_ 310-314

3. DISPUTATION AT HEIDELBERG ON FAITH AND GRACE. OTHER PUBLIC UTTERANCES.

The Heidelberg Chapter. Leonard Beyer defends Luther’s theses in the presence of Bucer and other future adherents of the cause. The theses and their demonstration; Grace not to be obtained by works; the motive of fear; free will a mere name. A Wittenberg Disputation in 1518, “For the Quieting of Anxious Consciences.” The three great Disputations described by Luther as “_Initium negocii evangelici_.” Luther to Trutfetter on his aims _pages_ 315-321

4. ATTITUDE TO THE CHURCH.

Luther continues to acknowledge the doctrinal office of the Church. The principle of private interpretation of Scripture not yet enunciated. Explanation of Luther’s inconsistency in conduct; on obedience to the Church; traces all heresies back to pride; his correct description of Indulgences in 1516, his regret at their abuse _pages_ 321-326