The Measure of a Man, first published in 1959, is the text of two devotional speeches made by Dr. King at the National Conference on Christian Education of the United Church of Christ, held at Purdue University in the summer of 1958. The speeches were praised by many who were inspired and enlightened by their clear message on how to live a complete life centered on oneself, others, and God.

From the Foreword: In the resolute struggle of American Negroes to achieve complete acceptance as citizens and neighbors the author is recognized as a leader of extraordinary resourcefulness, valor, and skill. His concern for justice and brotherhood and the non-violent methods that he advocates and uses, are based on a serious commitment to the Christian faith. As his meditations in this book suggest, Dr. King regards meditation and action as indivisible functions of the religious life. When we think seriously in the presence of the Most High, when in sincerity we "go up to the mountain of the Lord," the sure event is that "he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths" (Isaiah 2:3).