Martin Luther’s commentary upon the Sermon of the Mount is lively, informed, and a perfect gateway to the writings of the great Renaissance theologian and Bible scholar.

As the exemplifying source of Jesus Christ’s moral teachings, the Sermon on the Mount comprises of the most famous and widely discussed passages in the New Testament Gospels. Oft-quoted and synonymous with Christianity, the teachings of the Lord Jesus include the Lord’s Prayer; the proverb-like Beatitudes; and phrases such as ‘salt of the earth’ which remain popular to this day.

Luther offers a frank and respectful interpretation of the Sermon of the Mount, discussing at length the fifth and sixth chapters of the Book of Matthew, which is where the principle body of Christ’s moral teachings reside. Famously effusive and enthusiastic about the possibilities of the recently invented printing press, Luther prefaces his words with hope that they will prove of insight and value to many Christians far and wide.

This edition of Luther’s commentary is translated to English by Charles Augustus Hay, himself a scholar of Christianity. Publishing several translations of famous works from across religious history, Hay’s education in theology and long association with academia was accompanied by a pastorship in Middletown, Pennsylvania.