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Then they began to say: 'Yes, but how can we know what is…

“Then they began to say: 'Yes, but how can we know what is God's Word, and what is right or wrong? We must learn this from the Pope and the councils.' Very well then, let them conclude and say what they please, yet I will reply, you cannot put your confidence in that nor thus satisfy your…” quote by Martin Luther
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“Then they began to say: 'Yes, but how can we know what is God's Word, and what is right or wrong? We must learn this from the Pope and the councils.' Very well then, let them conclude and say what they please, yet I will reply, you cannot put your confidence in that nor thus satisfy your conscience, for you must determine this matter yourself, for your very life depends upon it. Therefore God must speak to your heart: This is God's Word; otherwise you are undecided.”

Martin Luther

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The author argues that individuals must discern divine truth personally rather than relying solely on papal authority, urging inner conviction as the basis for moral decisions.

In simple terms: Personal conscience should guide understanding of God’s word.

Key Takeaway

Trust your own moral judgment.

Themes

faith authority conscience

Mood

determined reflective

Type

theological motivational

When to use this quote

  • Studying scripture
  • ethical dilemmas
  • church debates
  • personal prayer

Key Concepts

Reformation personal revelation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance personal insight with communal teachings?
  • What role should tradition play in your faith?
A Different Perspective

Blind reliance on personal interpretation can lead to subjective error.

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