As much as Luther’s impact on the Reformation and Christianity is without doubt a milestone in the life of the church, I believe no one man or woman of our fallen species can be placed on a pedestal. It is more honest and truthful to examine Luther’s life and work correctly, giving credit where it is due, and noting the shortcomings which impeded or diminished his best efforts. Luther’s own words describe his feelings on a host of subjects, and these are known by scholars and students alike who have plumbed the massive writings he produced. His often rash comments, and railings against the Jews in his published writings do not reflect the teachings of Our Lord, or the spirit of Christ toward those blinded in unbelief. In his provocative speech he advanced antisemitic rhetoric which others used as justification for despising the Jews. His encouragement of the German princes in brutally suppressing the peasant revolt and upheavals of his day effectively aided the Counter Reformation, by driving more Germans back into Catholicism. No man is perfect, the best of men are not always at their best, and Luther was no exception. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. When we speak of the history of Luther and the Reformation, we owe it to history to be forthcoming and understand it in all aspects, lest we paint an incomplete picture. Soli Deo Gloria