“When I am angry I can pray well and preach well.”
- November 10, 1483 – February 18, 1546
- Born in the Holy Roman Empire (Germany)
- Reformer, theologian
- Promoted the Protestant Reformation and published the Ninety-five Theses
Quote
“When I am angry I can pray well and preach well.”
Explanation
In this quote, Martin Luther reflects on how anger can, paradoxically, become a powerful motivator for prayer and preaching. He suggests that when he feels anger or frustration, particularly about the state of the Church or issues of faith, it compels him to pray more fervently and to preach more boldly. For Luther, the intense emotions that arise in moments of anger can channel energy into speaking truth and calling for reform, especially when confronting injustice or corruption. This aligns with his broader approach to passion in faith, where he believed that strong feelings, including anger, could serve as a catalyst for action, driving a person to engage more deeply with God’s will and to boldly address the problems in the world.
Luther’s experience with anger likely stems from his struggle with the Catholic Church during the Protestant Reformation. His anger at the abuses of the Church, particularly the sale of indulgences, drove him to not only speak out but also to preach with passion and conviction. For Luther, anger was not necessarily something to be avoided, but rather an emotion that could be harnessed for righteous purposes. The anger that fueled his 95 Theses and his reforming work in the Church ultimately led to significant changes in Christian theology and practice.
In modern times, this quote speaks to how emotions, even anger, can sometimes serve as a force for positive change if directed toward a righteous cause. It challenges the idea that anger must always be destructive or harmful, instead suggesting that it can energize action and prayer in the pursuit of justice or spiritual growth. It serves as a reminder that authentic expression of emotion, when aligned with God’s will, can lead to empowered action in both faith and life.
