Biographies on Luther are numerous, ranging from easy bitesize to in-depth and scholarly. So what makes this one different? Well, to begin with, this is almost two books in one. It starts with historical narrative but concludes with a definite emphasis on theology, in particular the great doctrine of justification by faith.
Chapters 1–6 take us from Luther’s birth to his momentous stand for the truth at the Diet of Worms in 1521. Sproul skilfully signposts the key turning points in Luther’s life. This is easy to follow and would suit a first-timer to Luther’s ‘life’ enhanced by additional little details picked up from Sproul’s many visits to the places cited. Sproul forcefully brings out the incredible struggle Luther faced as he went through this journey of faith. We get to feel we are actually walking with the man.
