A helpful and accessible guide to Lutheranism's history and central tenents, with numerous photos and illustrations.

Gassmann and Hendrix expertly present the historical context for the Reformation in its beginnings and development as background to the emergence and gathering of the Confessions. Core chapters then explore (1) the structure of faith (Scripture as norm law-gospel framework, the Trinity, and justification), (2) Christian community (the sacraments, ministry, the nature of the church), and (3) the Christian life (the two reigns sin, sanctification, eternal life). A final chapter examines the role the Confessions play in today's ecumenical, pluralistic environment.

This useful guide offers a critical appraisal of a theological movement within the church catholic. The authors, a church historian and a systematic theologian, describe Lutheranism as centered in the fundamental principle of the Reformation, "justification by faith apart from works of law."The book focuses on the emergence of this chief article of faith as a proposal of dogma to the church ecumenical, its theological formulation, and its significance for the shaping of piety and doctrine. Each issue is treated in terms of both confessional history and systematic theology. Seminarians, pastors, teachers, and interested laypersons of all traditions will gain ecumenical insights as well as pertinent information from this work.

Making Sense of Martin Luther uses a conversational format to explore how Luther’s dynamic understanding of God’s life-changing gospel informs day-to-day faith and life in the world today. Introduction: Luther as Monk, Myth, and Messenger Chapter 1: The Reluctant Reformer—Introducing “the Monk Who Changed the World” Chapter 2: Freedom! Justification by Grace through Faith Chapter 3: The Present-Tense God—Law and Gospel Chapter 4: The Ambidextrous God—The Two Kingdoms and God’s Ongoing Work in the World Chapter 5: Called for Good—Vocation, Sinning Boldly, and the Respiratory System of the Body of Christ Chapter 6: God Hidden and Revealed—Luther’s Theology of the Cross and the Sacraments Chapter 7: Semper Simul—Sin, Forgiveness, and “Becoming Christian” Accompanying leader guide and DVD are available.

On 31 October 1517 a lone monk pushed his way through the crowds milling around the streets of Wittenberg, a small university town in eastern Germany, and made his way towards the church. Arriving at the church door, he nailed to it a list of ninety-five propositions, or theses, in a formal gesture inviting the townspeople to a public debate. At the time very few people took much notice of his actions, but within a few weeks people throughout Europe were discussing the contents of those theses and a chain of events had been set in motion which would have profound effects for the whole of Western Europe, and beyond, for centuries to come. That monk was Martin Luther. 'Fresh and fast-moving, Jim Cromarty's account of the life and influence of the great Reformer brings Martin Luther out from the pages of the history books, portraying his warm, vibrant personality and unwavering faith. Packed with detail, A Mighty fortress is our God lays an excellent foundation for further study of the Reformation period and Luther's own testimony, which remains as relevant now as it ever was. Not only is this book valuable as an introduction to Martin Luther's life, but it also serves as a reminder of those cardinal doctrines of the faith which can alone transform the lives of men and women today.' Faith Cook 'Jim Cromarty's rendition of Luther sings sweetly. Though clearly aware of critical scholarship, Cromarty has written a narrative to entice a delight. The story is ever fresh, written in a lively, engaging and, at times, enchanting style. Luther never fails to fascinate, encourage and bring prayers of thanks for God's deliverance from the soul tyranny of medieval Rome. Cromarty's story unleashesLuther in all his strength and sweetness and keeps the reader absorbed in the drama with its tensions and celebrations.' Tom Nettles

In a clear, nontechnical way, this noted Reformation historian tells the story of how the nascent reforming and confessional movement sparked and led by Martin Luther survived its first battles with religious and political authorities to become institutionalized in its religious practices and teachings. Gritsch then traces the emergence of genuine consensus at the end of the sixteenth century, followed by the age of Lutheran Orthodoxy, the great Pietist reaction, Lutheranisms growing diversification during the Industrial Revolution, its North American expansion, and its increasingly global and ecumenical ventures in the last century.

Opening the Book of Faith is an invitation to experience the Bible as a book of faith. It provides an introduction to the Bible and Lutheran perspectives that guide understanding of Scripture. This book explores four methods of Bible study, then applies each method to four Scripture texts. Two assessment tools also aid reflection and discussion about Bible usage, needs, and hopes.For more information visit the Book of Faith Web site.