Michel Hug, Ein Sermon von dem rechten Glauben, Augsburg 1524 (Bayerische Staatsbibliothek, 4 Hom. 888)

Although the Reformation in Lindau prevailed quite early on, until 1530 only two printed publications by theologians from the imperial city have been preserved. One of them was written by Thomas Gassner (d. 1548), the other by Michael Hug (or Hugo, d. 1524), the reading master (reader) of the Franciscan monastery.

Hug had studied Luther’s works and was the first to preach Luther’s doctrine in Lindau as early as in 1522. Thus he came into conflict with the parish priest of Lindau, Johannes Fabri (1478–1541, 1530–1541 bishop of Vienna). However, the imperial city council stood behind Hug.

In his sermon “Ain kurtzer aber Christlicher unnd fast nutzlicher Sermon von dem rechten Glauben” (A Short but Christian and almost Useful Sermon on the Right Faith), published in 1524, Hug criticises less the state of the Church at that time in general. Rather, he deals with the correct life of Christians, with faith and activity according to divine will. Luther’s doctrine of grace, derived from biblical texts, is the central theme for him. Man cannot earn salvation through his own merits. Christ brings peace and will free the people. Their faith should move people to do good; in doing so, they should realise God’s will.

To the digitised copy