Bondage of the Will - Luther - I - 'Preface', 'Introduction' & 'Erasmus' Preface Reviewed'

Required reading
The Bondage of the Will by Martin Luther (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read the 'Preface by the Translator', the 'Introduction' and 'Erasmus' Preface Reviewed'.

My summary
Today we begin an absolute classic Reformed work.

Firstly we read Cole's comments on his translation including his:
(i) reasons for the translation;
(ii) methodology.

Secondly Luther explains to Erasmus his reasons for writing the book: 'This my reply to you, therefore, is not wholly without cause. My brethren in Christ press me to it, setting before me the expectation of all; seeing that the authority of Erasmus is not to be despised, and the truth of the Christian doctrine is endangered in the hearts of many. And indeed, I felt a persuasion in my own mind, that my silence would not be altogether right, and that I was deceived by the prudence or malice of the flesh, and not sufficiently mindful of my office, in which I am a debtor, both to the wise and to the unwise; and especially, since I was called to it by the entreaties of so many brethren. '

Thirdly, Luther examines Erasmus' preface and finds it wanting, particularly in reference to Christ.

What grabbed me
I loved how Luther thanked Erasmus in the Introduction: 'And who knows but that God may even condescend to visit you, my friend Erasmus, by me His poor weak vessel; and that I may (which from my heart I desire of the Father of mercies through Jesus Christ our Lord) come unto you by this Book in a happy hour, and gain over a dearest brother. For although you think and write wrong concerning “Free-will,” yet no small thanks are due unto you from me, in that you have rendered my own sentiments far more strongly confirmed, from my seeing the cause of “Free-will” handled by all the powers of such and so great talents, and so far from being bettered, left worse than it was before which leaves an evident proof, that “Free- will” is a downright lie; and that, like the woman in the gospel, the more it is taken in hand by physicians, the worse it is made. Therefore the greater thanks will be rendered to you by me, if you by me gain more information, as I have gained by you more confirmation. But each is the gift of God, and not the work of our own endeavours. Wherefore, prayer must be made unto God, that He would open the mouth in me, and the heart in you and in all; that He would be the Teacher in the midst of us, who may in us speak and hear. '

Erasmus' work actually helped confirm Luther's position on free-will!

Next week's reading 
Read 'Erasmus' Scepticism' and 'The necessity of knowing God and his power'.

Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.