Bayers work is insightful and helpful to all pastors and theologians. Written almost as an annotated catechism Bayer touches on most of the major topics in Luthers theology. All the regular subjects are there but are arranged creatively and are laden with unique insights that keep with Bayers stated goal of putting Luthers in a contemporary interpretation conversant with modern thought. Bayer makes many unique claims based on his deep knowledge of Luthers writings. Among those that are clearest in my memory are 1.) Luthers holding the teaching of the three estates as more important than the teaching on the two kingdoms in his understanding of creation and the political use of the law, 2.)the doctrine of the trinity as a unique event that happens not in some speculative limbo but as a real unfolding of God in time which is revealed to us by faith. Luther roots his entire teaching in the promise which comes from God and serves as the liferoot of our faith. Bayer makes this central insight the light that illuminates Luthers entire work. This book had to be digested very slowly and thought about deeply but it was incredibly rewarding. This book should be used by those who have a working knowledge of the basic tenets of Luthers thinking who have read at least the Small and Large Catechisms, the Augsburg Confession, On the Freedom of a Christian, and highlights from Bondage of the Will. Originally written in German this work benefits from a translator who worked hard to make prose readable, and makes mention of many works by Luther which have not been translated into English yet. The only difficulties with the book came in the way that Bayer often repeats what he considers to be the central ideas and the lack of any kind of cohesive conclusion (which may have been a design on the authors part) Matt Metevelis
Posted on: Sat, 02 Nov 2013 14:18:20 +0000
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