Publisher Description

This Companion provides an accessible introduction to Martin Luther for students of theology and history and everyone interested in the life, work and thought of the first great Protestant reformer. Historians and theologians present a complete picture of Luther's major writing themes and the ways in which his ideas spread and continue to be important. The Companion is oriented to those with little or no background in Luther studies, as well as teachers and specialists.

Notes

Provides an accessible introduction to Martin Luther for students of theology and history.

Author Biography

Donald K. McKim has served as Academic Dean and Professor of Theology at Memphis Theological Seminary and Professor of Theology at the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary, in addition to being a pastor in Presbyterian Church (USA) churches. He is the author and editor of over twenty-five books and currently works as Academic and Reference editor for Westminster John Knox Press.

Table of Contents

Notes on contributors; Preface; Chronology; List of abbreviations; Part I. Luther's Life and Context: 1. Luther's life Albrecht Beutel; 2. Luther's Wittenberg Helmar Junghans; Part II. Luther's Work: 3. Luther's writings Timothy F. Lull; 4. Luther as bible translator Eric W. Gritsch; 5. Luther as an interpreter of holy scripture Oswald Bayer; 6. Luther's theology Markus Wriedt; 7. Luther's moral theology Bernd Wannenwetsch; 8. Luther as preacher of the Word of God Fred W. Meuser; 9. Luther's spiritual journey Jane E. Strohl; 10. Luther's struggle with social-ethical issues Carter Lindberg; 11. Luther's political encounters David M. Whitford; 12. Luther's polemical controversies Mark U. Edwards Jr; Part III. After Luther: 13. Luther's function in an age of confessionalization Robert Kolb; 14. The legacy of Martin Luther Hans J. Hillerbrand; 15. Approaching Luther James A. Nestingen; Part IV. Luther Today: 16. Luther and modern church history James M. Kittelson; 17. Luther's contemporary theological significance Robert W. Jenson; 18. Luther in the worldwide church today Günther Gassmann; Select bibliography; Index.

Review

'These essays help to illustrate the many facets of this complex man, and allow the reader to see the first great Protestant Reformer in the context of the social, political, and ecclesiastical realities of his day. This will be a good resource for those wanting to learn about the Reformation.' Baptist Times 'This is a fresh and provocative introduction to Luther, introducing both old themes and new ...[it can] be commended to both student and specialist.' Methodist Recorder 'Whilst this impressive collection has in mind those coming to Luther's works and importance for the first time, it will also prove most useful to those who wish to refresh their knowledge or those who wish to see the latest thinking on the father of the Reformation.' Contemporary Review '... the variety and distinctiveness of the contributions render this volume an excellent theological introduction into as well as overview of Luther's work and significance, past and present.' Scripture Bulletin 'Highly recommended!' International Review of Biblical Studies '... sustains a high level of discussion and provides over 300 pages of essays on different aspects of its subject. The book contains much of real value, and combines biographical, bibliographical, historical and theological approaches. Its strength is the attention it gives to the variety of roles Luther played in his life and to the way Luther has been read and used in subsequent history. The volume manages to cover a good deal of ground and offers a comprehensive guide to the state of Luther studies today. ... a useful addition to the literature, and is a valuable introductory guide. ... as a general book introducing the reader to themes in Luther studies today, it serves a valuable purpose and deserves adding to libraries and bookshelves of those responsible for teaching Luther.' International Journal of Systematic Theology

Promotional

This Companion provides an accessible introduction to Martin Luther for students of theology and history.

Review Quote

'Whilst this impressive collection has in mind those coming to Luther's works and importance for the first time, it will also prove most useful to those who wish to refresh their knowledge or those who wish to see the latest thinking on the father of the Reformation.' Contemporary Review

Promotional "Headline"

This Companion provides an accessible introduction to Martin Luther for students of theology and history.

Description for Bookstore

This Companion provides an accessible introduction to Martin Luther for students of theology and history. Leading scholars join to present a full picture of Luther's contexts, the major themes in his writings, and the ways in which his ideas spread and have continuing importance today.

Description for Library

This Companion provides an accessible introduction to Martin Luther for students of theology and history. Leading scholars join to present a full picture of Luther's contexts, the major themes in his writings, and the ways in which his ideas spread and have continuing importance today.

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