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Originally Posted by Spear Dane  Quote:
Originally Posted by Vytautas I like Martin Luther's method - argument by assertion.
"Peter commands us to give a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:15). And what need is there of a multitude of proofs? Nothing is more familiar or characteristic among Christians than assertion. Take away assertions, and you take away Christianity."
(The Bondage of the Will) | Luther is using "assertion" in a different sense than is used today. Nowadays, "assertion" means setting forth a proposition/position but without proof (like much Reformed argument online). Luther is using it in a different sense. |
Given that Luther says 'And what need is there of a multitude of proofs?' it would seem on the face of it that he is using the word assertion to mean 'setting forth a proposition but without proof'. Perhaps this definition would shead light on the matter:
"I mean staunchly holding your ground, stating your position, confessing it, defending it and persevering in it unvanquished." (Bondage of the Will)