Resources
Recommended books and study tools for exploring the Lutheran Confession and historic Christian theology.
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Reference Books
The Story of Christian Theology
by Roger E. Olson
Roger Olson’s *Twenty Centuries of Tradition & Reform* traces the development of Christian theology from the second-century apostolic fathers through major movements such as the early church councils, the Reformation, and modern theological trends. Central to this narrative is salvation, seen as the unifying theme throughout the diverse theological traditions and reforms.
Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions
by Ed. Paul T. McCain, Edward Engelbrecht, Robert Baker & Gene Edward Veith
An 800-page annotated edition of the Book of Concord — the Lutheran Church's authoritative collection of sixteenth-century faith statements — with introductions, historical context, and study tools.
The Creeds of Christendom
by Philip Schaff
Philip Schaff's *The Creeds of Christendom* details Christian creeds from apostolic to 19th century, offering historical context and theological analysis across traditions.
The Lutheran Confessions: History and Theology of the Book of Concord
by Charles P. Arand, Robert Kolb & James A. Nestingen
A scholarly examination of the foundational Lutheran confessional documents within their political, social, ecclesiastical, and theological contexts — the definitive academic guide to the Book of Concord.
Treasures Old and New: Daily Readings From the Greek and Hebrew Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions
by John C. Jeske
A daily devotional pairing Hebrew and Greek Scripture passages with vocabulary and grammar notes alongside brief excerpts from the Lutheran Confessions — ideal for seminary students and pastors refreshing their biblical languages.
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Study Notes
Structure
Six chief parts: the Ten Commandments, the Apostles' Creed, the Lord's Prayer, Holy Baptism, Confession and Absolution, and the Lord's Supper. Each section presents the text followed by Luther's plain, memorable explanation beginning with 'What does this mean?'
Purpose
Written in 1529 after Luther's visitation of Saxon parishes revealed deep theological ignorance — even among clergy. His goal was to equip heads of households and pastors to teach the essentials of Christian faith simply and clearly in homes and congregations.
Usage
Used for confirmation instruction, family devotions, and catechetical teaching in Lutheran churches worldwide for nearly 500 years. It remains the most widely used catechism in the Lutheran tradition and one of the most translated Christian documents in history.
Influence
Established the pattern of doctrinal instruction organized around the Commandments, Creed, and Lord's Prayer — a structure that influenced not only Lutheran catechesis but shaped Reformed, Anglican, and even Roman Catholic catechetical reforms throughout the Reformation era.