Encounters with Luther: New Directions for Critical Studies

"For whatever significance his theology has had for the present divisions that mark the church today, I think it is fair to surmise Luther may be a key figure for helping us to better understand what unites us so that the future of the church is marked not by its division but rather by its unity as the body of Christ. The essays in this book are no doubt a wonderful expression of this hope that is shared by all who have been baptized into the life, death, and resurrection of Christ our Lord." —Forward, Stanley Hauerwas

A compilation of original primary research from an international and ecumenical pool of scholars, Encounters With Luther: New Directions for Critical Studies examines Luther and Lutheran theological traditions along with their historical foundations, focusing on relevant contemporary issues and ecumenical collegiality. Topics range from sacraments and marriage to violence and gender and sexuality to spiritual care, politics, and suffering. Chapters are based on the annual Luther Colloquy proceedings at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. The articles represent a diverse range of authors and methodologies that reward readers with relevant and genuinely contemporary and practical applications of Luther's thought.

Contributors: B. A. Gerrish, Mary Jane Haemig, Douglass John Hall, Stanley Hauerwas, Kurt K. Hendel, Hans J. Hillerbrand, Eero Huovinen, Denis R. Janz, Peter D. S. Krey, Volker Leppin, Carter Lindberg, Anna Madsen, Mickey L. Mattox, Surekha Nelavala, Brooks Schramm, Kirsi I. Stjerna, Deanna A. Thompson, Vitor Westhelle, and John Witte Jr.