Abstract

Wartburg Castle was built in 1521, i.e. in the extremely difficult, but also decisive Time for the Reformation and the Reformer Himself, Luther's Commentary on the Magnificat. Compared to the works written by Luther in that year, the comment clearly by its non-polemical and pious character, so that one even of can talk to a new face of the professor from Wittenberg. So far one has the comment especially on the part of the Catholics, used only as unbeatable proof that Luther was scientific would never have given up Marian (that is, Catholic) piety. The attentive reader may but it cannot escape the fact that it is not about Mary here, but about God and about his works (opera dei) comes first. In the center of his work the reformer places the sole effectiveness god. He is the one who does everything. In considering this subject, Luther reproaches himself very clearly to his theologia crucis, in which the main idea is: God does not let himself in recognize the works of his power and greatness, but in his impotence and weakness (posteriora dei). The cross of Jesus, through which some are offended by God, expresses this weakness clearest. But for those who believe, the posterior does not become a stumbling block, but a stumbling block Unhurt. In this context, the commentary also contains thoughts about opus dei actum (God's own work - without any mediation of the creature) and opus dei factum (God's foreign work - with the mediation of the creature) were to be stood. Ruled in this double way God in the world, i.e. in the history of the world (opus factum - "he gives what is his") and in the history of salvation (opus actum – “he gives himself”). The Christological thoughts are concentrated in the commentary on the incarnation as the main work of God in the history of salvation. In this works fulfill all the promises of God. It must be emphasized that Luther in his doctrine of God and Christology, which belong closely together, on the great role of experience hints. This topic is currently occupying several theologians. Luther stands out as one of the protagonists. Luther's comment also indirectly proves that if he doesn't able to defend himself against reproaches and attacks from his opponent when challenged was to formulate deeply thought-out, comprehensive and polemic-free theological thoughts. From the ecumenical point of view, this conclusion seems to be of particular importance be. Such alleged secondary writings give us access to another Luther who neither saint nor heretic.