Meaning: This quote by Martin Luther, the German theologian and key figure in the Protestant Reformation, speaks to the importance of prioritizing the teachings of the Lord over personal conscience and feelings. In this quote, Luther emphasizes the significance of faith and the word of God as the ultimate authority in guiding one's beliefs and actions. To fully understand the context and significance of this quote, it is essential to explore Martin Luther's background and the theological principles that underpin his teachings.

Martin Luther, born in 1483, was a monk, theologian, and professor who became a central figure in the Protestant Reformation, a movement that aimed to reform the Catholic Church and led to the creation of Protestantism as a distinct Christian tradition. Luther's theological journey was marked by his deep spiritual struggle and his eventual rejection of certain practices and teachings of the Catholic Church. One of the pivotal moments in Luther's life was his posting of the Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, which criticized the sale of indulgences and other practices within the Catholic Church. This event is often regarded as the catalyst for the Protestant Reformation.

Central to Martin Luther's theological teachings was the concept of sola scriptura, which asserts the Bible as the sole authority for Christian faith and practice. Luther emphasized the importance of scripture over tradition and human authority, advocating for a direct and personal engagement with the Word of God. This principle aligns with the quote in question, as Luther urged individuals not to prioritize their own conscience and feelings over the word of the Lord as preached in scripture.

The quote reflects Luther's belief in the inherent authority and truth of God's word, which he viewed as the ultimate guide for believers. In his view, following one's conscience and feelings alone could lead to error and moral relativism, whereas the teachings of the Lord as revealed in scripture provided a firm and unchanging foundation for faith and conduct. Luther's emphasis on the importance of the word of God also served as a critique of the ecclesiastical structures and practices that he perceived as straying from biblical truth.

Furthermore, Luther's emphasis on the word of the Lord as preached to believers by the one who "receives sinners" underscores the central theme of grace in his theology. Luther's teachings emphasized the concept of justification by faith, asserting that individuals are justified and reconciled with God through faith in Christ alone, apart from their own works or merit. Therefore, the word of the Lord, as preached by the merciful and grace-giving God, stands as the ultimate source of truth and guidance for believers.

In summary, Martin Luther's quote encapsulates his emphasis on sola scriptura and the priority of the word of God over personal conscience and feelings. It reflects his theological convictions regarding the authority of scripture and the centrality of God's word in guiding the faith and actions of believers. Understanding this quote in the context of Luther's broader theological framework sheds light on its significance within the Protestant Reformation and its enduring influence on Christian thought and practice.