Here is some Table Talk from Dr. Luther concerning the subject of Church Fathers:
When God’s Word is by the Fathers expounded, construed, and glossed, then, in my judgment, it is even as when one strains milk through a coal-sack, which must needs spoil and make the milk black; God’s Word of itself is pure, clean, bright and clear; but, through the doctrines, books, and writings of the Fathers, it is darkened, falsified, and spoiled.
Obviously, Luther took a dim view of the writings of the Church Fathers. This is understandable given the role Church Tradition had played (still plays?) up to his time.
Is it useful or practical to read these Church Fathers today? What is the difference between reading one of them and reading, say, C.S. Lewis? What about Augustine? If there is a Church Father we Lutherans tend to have a soft spot for, it is Augustine. It is easy to see why beyond just Luther’s belonging to an Augustinian Order. Augustine’s two cities and Luther’s two kingdoms provide one chief example.
What are the thoughts of the high powered theologians around Planet Augsburg?
August 26, 2008 at 12:07 am
Until the high-powered theologians check in, this low octane version thinks that there are proabbly many gems amongst the slag.
Anytime we are dealing with sinful men (or women) there will be lots to sift through.
The Word will make it’s way, however, and whenever it shines brightly we ought show it off and share it with the world. When it shines less brightly, we might brush back some of that slag to expose the pure beauty of that sweet sound…”Father forgive them, for they know not what they do,”
For the Church Fathers as with the rest of us…take the best, and forgive the rest.