Chapter VIII: The Commentary on the Epistle to

THE GALATIANS. FIRST DISPUTATIONS AND FIRST
TRIUMPHS _pages_ 303-326

1. ”THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE GOSPEL BUSINESS.”
EXPOSITION OF THE EPISTLE TO THE GALATIANS
(1516-17).

Melanchthon and Mathesius on the birth of the
“Evangel.” Luther’s first disciples, Carlstadt,
Amsdorf, etc. His appeals to St. Augustine.
The Commentary on Galatians begins in 1516.
Luther’s progress in the light of this and the
longer Commentary published later _pages_ 303-310

2. DISPUTATIONS ON MAN’S POWERS AND AGAINST
SCHOLASTICISM (1516-17).

Bernhardi’s Disputation in 1516 presided
over by Luther; “Man sins in spite of every
effort.” Luther to Lang on the scandal of
the “Gabrielists.” Günther’s Disputation in
1517; specimens of the theses defended; Luther
circulates them widely _pages_ 310-314

3. DISPUTATION AT HEIDELBERG ON FAITH AND
GRACE. OTHER PUBLIC UTTERANCES.

The Heidelberg Chapter. Leonard Beyer defends
Luther’s theses in the presence of Bucer and
other future adherents of the cause. The
theses and their demonstration; Grace not to
be obtained by works; the motive of fear; free
will a mere name. A Wittenberg Disputation
in 1518, “For the Quieting of Anxious
Consciences.” The three great Disputations
described by Luther as “_Initium negocii
evangelici_.” Luther to Trutfetter on his aims _pages_ 315-321

4. ATTITUDE TO THE CHURCH.

Luther continues to acknowledge the doctrinal
office of the Church. The principle of private
interpretation of Scripture not yet enunciated.
Explanation of Luther’s inconsistency in
conduct; on obedience to the Church; traces all
heresies back to pride; his correct description
of Indulgences in 1516, his regret at their
abuse _pages_ 321-326