Preface to Romans

This preface to Paul's Epistle to the Romans is part of Luther's German translation of the Bible, which was begun in 1521, with the complete New Testament published the following year. The New Testament prefaces appeared in this 1522 edition. The preface to Romans begins thus: “This letter is truly the most important piece in the New Testament. It is purest Gospel.” Luther proceeds to summarize the epistle – its terminology and thought, treating it throughout as central to Christian faith and life. Indeed Paul's Roman epistle was fundamental to Luther's belief – his extensive lectures were recorded and published, providing a powerful and influential source of exegesis. This preface, in its own right, is a significant and concise Commentary of the book that is, and has remained, the cornerstone of Protestant doctrine.

NOTE: This title is included in the Version 5 and OneTouch Libraries.