Fortress Press

Fortress Introduction to the Lutheran Confessions

Fortress Introduction to the Lutheran Confessions

Gunther Gassmann (Author), Scott Hendrix (Author)

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Despite their near-scriptural status, the Lutheran Confessions are not widely used in Lutheran circles, the authors believe, because presentation of them has been too technical for non-specialists. Geared specifically for classroom and parish use, this concise and accessible introductory text includes the latest historical and theological research, sections on contemporary Lutheranism, and discussion questions.

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.

  • Publisher Fortress Press
  • Format Paperback
  • ISBN 9780800631628
  • Dimensions 5.5 x 8.5
  • Pages 240
  • Publication Date March 11, 1999

Contents

Chapter 1 -- Setting the Stage: The Reformation in Historical Context
Politics
Society
Church
Theology
Questions for Discussion and Further Study

Chapter 2 -- The Development of Lutheranism
Defining a Lutheran Movement
Expanding the Lutheran Reformation
Consolidating a Lutheran Confession
Questions for Discussion and Further Study

Chapter 3 -- The Lutheran Confession: The Texts
Confessing and Confession as Fundamental to the Church
The Book of Concord: The Corpus of Lutheran Confession
Questions for Discussion and Further Study

Chapter 4 -- The Lutheran Confessions: The Structure of the Faith
The Norm: Scripture- Tradition- Confession
The Framework: Law and Gospel
The Basis: God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit
The Center: Justification of the Sinner
Questions for Discussion and Further Study

Chapter 5 -- The Lutheran Confessions: The Christian Community
The Sacraments
Baptism
Repentance, Confession, and Absolution
The Eucharist
Ministry and Church Order
The Nature of the Church
Questions for Discussion and Further Study

Chapter 6 -- The Lutheran Confession: The Christian Life
The Arena: Church and World-Two Reigns of God
The Conflicts: Sin, Free Will, Election
The Fruit: Good Works and Sanctification
The Goal: Eternal Life
Questions for Discussion and Further Study

Chapter 7 -- The Confession in the Worldwide Lutheran Communion
The Confessions: Essential Elements of Lutheran Identity
The Confession and the Establishment of Lutheran Churches Worldwide
The Confessions: Bond and Commitment in the Lutheran Communion
Questions for Discussion and Further Study
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