Luther's exegetical principles

The article is devoted to the consideration of Martin Luther’s exegetical principles. The understanding of the Holy Scripture as the action of the Holy Spirit has the effect of changing the exegetical position and practice of the Reformation founder. The main principles guiding the understanding of the Scriptures for Luther are: Jesus Christ; faith; Scripture explaining itself; belonging to the Church. The problem of sola Scriptura in the context of Lutheran theology is also discussed and Luther’s attitude to Church tradition is demonstrated. Luther’s attitude to the medieval quadriga (the four meanings of Scripture) and its critic are also considered. Luther’s views are demonstrated within the polemics with Erasmus of Rotterdam, medieval scholasticism, papists and radical Reformation views. Luther’s understanding of translation practice as possible only within the Church is noted.