The artists Lucas Cranach Senior and Junior, lived round the corner from the Luthers. They ran a thriving art studio and workshop, doing royal portraits, scenes from classical mythology, and large church pieces. Later, portraits of the Luthers sold very well. They were personal friends with the Luthers. Cranach Snr was best man at the Luther wedding, and stood in for the bride’s father. They were godparents to each other’s children.
The Cranachs were key supporters of the Reformation, and their artwork picked up the themes of justification by faith.
The Law Gospel allegory, pictured above, was repeated a number of times in print and painting, and illustrates Luther’s teaching. He saw that God used two ways to speak to humans. The Law and the 10 commandments told us what to do to be right with God. We can all do that to a limited extent. It is vital for how we get on with other people, to live together in peace. But we can’t love God with all our heart and mind and strength. Finally, living by the Law is a big fail. So, we need to be pointed to Christ, and all that he has done for us in his crucifixion and resurrection.
The left-hand side shows the fate of humans who live under the Law. The devil and death prod the helpless sinful human into the flames of hell. We see Adam and Eve eating the fruit of the tree, against the command of God. Because of this, God becomes distant, separated from them as a consequence of sin. Moses and the prophets hold out the 10 commandments (the Law) but that can’t reverse the process. Simply knowing what is right does not give us the power to do it.
The right-hand side is the Gospel side. John the Baptist points the believer to Christ on the cross. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. He has defeated the devil (a dragon) and death. They no longer have power to torment us. The risen Christ gifts us with eternal life. The background on the right shows a peaceful world.
The Reformation message is simple. Trust Christ and his forgiveness. You don’t have to worry if you are good enough or doing enough for God. You are free to simply live out who you are, in ways that serve and bless others, right where God has placed you.
