Skip to content

Firsts Quote by Martin Luther

“We ought first to know that there are no good works except those which God has commanded, even as there is no sin except that which God has forbidden.” quote by Martin Luther
Download Open image
“We ought first to know that there are no good works except those which God has commanded, even as there is no sin except that which God has forbidden.”

Martin Luther

About This Quote

Source Treatise: On the Freedom of a Christian, Martin Luther, 1520

Moral actions are defined by divine command; only those commanded are good, and only forbidden acts are sinful.

In simple terms: Good and sin are set by God’s commands.

Key Takeaway

Follow divine guidance.

Themes

morality divine law obedience

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal ethics
  • legal systems
  • religious practice
  • education

Key Concepts

theology ethical absolutism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines a moral action without divine command?
  • How do you discern God’s will?
A Different Perspective

Human interpretation of commands can differ.

2.6 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Martin Luther

Explore all 1,292 Martin Luther quotes

More Firsts quotes

Browse all 32,432 Firsts quotes