Martin Luther (not so good after all)

As a recovering Evangelical I often revisit my heroes of the faith. Martin Luther has avoided my gaze over many years; his stand against the despicable practice of selling indulgences (cash for forgiveness) was well judged. Whether the nails and church door are myth or not the message was appropriate. His extended Bible study that led him to understand pardon by grace alone was one of the best Quiet Times anyone ever had.

So it was with some disappointment that I read Tanit Koch's excellent 'Germansplaining' column in The New European last week. She pointed out that Luther, in 1524, wrote a piece called 'Against the Murderous, Thieving Hordes of Peasants' although those peasants were revolting against heavy taxes on farmers. His pamphlet was all the ammo the ruling aristocrats needed to kill 70,000 (yes, you read that right) peasants.

So, maybe it's easier to rely on God's grace when you're loaded.