Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions -- A Reader's Edition of the Book of Concord

The Book of Concord is the Lutheran Confession of Faith, similar to the Catechism of the Catholic Church for Roman Catholics. It contains the ten foundational documents of Lutheran belief. If you believe these documents to be true BECAUSE they agree with Scripture, then you are a Confessional Lutheran. If you only believe them INSOFAR as they agree with Scripture, then you are a Non-Confessional Lutheran, and believe me, there is a WORLD of difference. I fit into the first category, who believe the Book of Concord BECAUSE it agrees with Scripture. Confessional Lutherans are much more conservative than Non-Confessionals. But the Book of Concord, and belief in it, BECAUSE it agrees with Scripture, is what makes a Lutheran. With the Bible, the Book of Concord, and a Service Book, you have the bare minimum of books needed to understand our Faith.

I once borrowed a copy of the Concordia from my former pastor when I was still fairly new to Lutheranism, but I found it very difficult to get through. At the time I knew almost nothing of the historical setting of the later documents (pretty much everything newer than the creeds), and I gave up reading it and returned it barely used. Now, years later, I want desperately to read these. After all, I claim to be a confessional Lutheran, yet I haven't read all the confessions!! Want to read the confessions? This is the Concordia for you! Lots of great features in this book. First, there is a handy reader's guide that breaks it down into manageable daily chunks of reading that even busy people can get through with ease. You don't have to read every day, but if you did, you could easily get through the book in one year following the plan. Each section begins with a brief introduction that touches on the author, the historical setting, and explains why the document was written, and who its intended target was at the time of its writing. It helps to understand that many of these are in response to specific errors, or to grave but specific situations at the time. Notice I said the introductions were brief--this is important, because I don't want the intro to take me longer to slog through than the documents themselves. Just some quick info and then let me get on with it--if I want a full dissertation on the subject, I'll research further on my own. To me, these intros are just right. The text is a good size that won't strain the eye, but the book remains a reasonable size that is easy to manage and to take with you if you want to read on a longer car trip, which I did recently. The margins are generous if you, like me, learn better by peppering your books with copious amounts of marginalia. Definitely would recommend this book both to Lutherans wanting to understand their own confessions better, and to non-Lutherans wanting to know what we're all about.

Perfect for Confessional Lutheran laymen to understand what it means to be Lutheran. Good for anyone who seeks to understand Lutheran theology and Sola Scriptura. This should be in every Confessional Lutheran's home!

In perfect condition. Contains all the tenets of the Lutheran/Christian faith. Not just for pastors and lay leaders but the person in the pew. Takes time to absorb but has stood the test of time for more than 400 years.

INTRO Q: What is the Book of Concord? A: The Book of Concord contains documents which Christians from the fourth to the 16th century A.D. explained what they believed and taught on the basis of the Holy Scriptures. It includes, first, the three creeds which originated in the ancient church, the Apostles' Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. It contains, secondly, the Reformation writings known as the Augsburg Confession, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles, the Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope, Luther's Small and Large Catechisms, and the Formula of Concord. The Catechisms and the Smalcald Articles came from the pen of Martin Luther; the Augsburg Confession, its Apology, and the Treatise were written by Luther's co-worker, the scholarly Phillip Melanchthon; the Formula of Concord was given its final form chiefly by Jacob Andreae, Martin Chemnitz, and Nickolaus Selnecker. PUBLISHER: Concordia Publishing House or CPH.org (publishing arm of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod) has published the "Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions -- A Reader's Edition of the Book of Concord" in 2007. The Book of Concord is also available (thanks to CPH.org) in Kindle format or pocket-size paperback. This edition has a lot of extra notes and drawings. Once a year CPH.org will have a deep discount on this edition including a CD-ROM. CONTENT: - The Three Universal or Ecumenical Creeds - The Augsburg Confession (1530) - The Apology of the Augsburg Confession (1531) - The Smalcald Articles (1537) - The Power and Primacy of the Pope (1537) - The Small Catechism (1529) - The Large Catechism (1529) - The Formula of Concord, Epitome (1577) - The Formula of Concord, Solid Declaration (1577) For questions on what the importance of these chapters/declarations/confessions mean please see the FAQ at [...] CONCLUSION: Lutherans "accept without reservation the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament as the written Word of God and the only rule and norm of faith and of practice," and many Lutherans also believe that all the writings in the Book of Concord as "a true and unadulterated statement and exposition of the Word of God" (LCMS Constitution II). This handy and traveler-friendly book is a rich resource of spiritual food - it teaches and confesses that in Christ alone is there salvation -- by grace alone, through faith alone, on the basis of Scripture alone.

If you've always wondered, "Why Lutheran? What's Lutheran?" read this book. It clearly explains what Lutherans believe, using clear Scripture to as the basis for what they believe. The book does a wonderful job of putting each of the Lutheran confessions into their historical context, explaining the significance of the religious and political world scene.

This reader's edition is the best BOC to own out of them all.

This is an awesome copy of the Book of Concord. Awesome pictures inside- including one depicting Luther with Jan Hus.

Shrink wrapped and protected in shipment. Happy with purchase

This book was very solidly put together. I use the book weekly and often on a daily basis. The contents of this book are such that I am constantly going between the different sections, turning pages back and forth. It has stood up well and still does not show any signs of wear.

The Book of Concord is the Lutheran Confession of Faith, similar to the Catechism of the Catholic Church for Roman Catholics. It contains the ten foundational documents of Lutheran belief. If you believe these documents to be true BECAUSE they agree with Scripture, then you are a Confessional Lutheran. If you only believe them INSOFAR as they agree with Scripture, then you are a Non-Confessional Lutheran, and believe me, there is a WORLD of difference. I fit into the first category, who believe the Book of Concord BECAUSE it agrees with Scripture. Confessional Lutherans are much more conservative than Non-Confessionals. But the Book of Concord, and belief in it, BECAUSE it agrees with Scripture, is what makes a Lutheran. With the Bible, the Book of Concord, and a Service Book, you have the bare minimum of books needed to understand our Faith.

I once borrowed a copy of the Concordia from my former pastor when I was still fairly new to Lutheranism, but I found it very difficult to get through. At the time I knew almost nothing of the historical setting of the later documents (pretty much everything newer than the creeds), and I gave up reading it and returned it barely used. Now, years later, I want desperately to read these. After all, I claim to be a confessional Lutheran, yet I haven't read all the confessions!! Want to read the confessions? This is the Concordia for you! Lots of great features in this book. First, there is a handy reader's guide that breaks it down into manageable daily chunks of reading that even busy people can get through with ease. You don't have to read every day, but if you did, you could easily get through the book in one year following the plan. Each section begins with a brief introduction that touches on the author, the historical setting, and explains why the document was written, and who its intended target was at the time of its writing. It helps to understand that many of these are in response to specific errors, or to grave but specific situations at the time. Notice I said the introductions were brief--this is important, because I don't want the intro to take me longer to slog through than the documents themselves. Just some quick info and then let me get on with it--if I want a full dissertation on the subject, I'll research further on my own. To me, these intros are just right. The text is a good size that won't strain the eye, but the book remains a reasonable size that is easy to manage and to take with you if you want to read on a longer car trip, which I did recently. The margins are generous if you, like me, learn better by peppering your books with copious amounts of marginalia. Definitely would recommend this book both to Lutherans wanting to understand their own confessions better, and to non-Lutherans wanting to know what we're all about.

Perfect for Confessional Lutheran laymen to understand what it means to be Lutheran. Good for anyone who seeks to understand Lutheran theology and Sola Scriptura. This should be in every Confessional Lutheran's home!

In perfect condition. Contains all the tenets of the Lutheran/Christian faith. Not just for pastors and lay leaders but the person in the pew. Takes time to absorb but has stood the test of time for more than 400 years.

INTRO Q: What is the Book of Concord? A: The Book of Concord contains documents which Christians from the fourth to the 16th century A.D. explained what they believed and taught on the basis of the Holy Scriptures. It includes, first, the three creeds which originated in the ancient church, the Apostles' Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. It contains, secondly, the Reformation writings known as the Augsburg Confession, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles, the Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope, Luther's Small and Large Catechisms, and the Formula of Concord. The Catechisms and the Smalcald Articles came from the pen of Martin Luther; the Augsburg Confession, its Apology, and the Treatise were written by Luther's co-worker, the scholarly Phillip Melanchthon; the Formula of Concord was given its final form chiefly by Jacob Andreae, Martin Chemnitz, and Nickolaus Selnecker. PUBLISHER: Concordia Publishing House or CPH.org (publishing arm of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod) has published the "Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions -- A Reader's Edition of the Book of Concord" in 2007. The Book of Concord is also available (thanks to CPH.org) in Kindle format or pocket-size paperback. This edition has a lot of extra notes and drawings. Once a year CPH.org will have a deep discount on this edition including a CD-ROM. CONTENT: - The Three Universal or Ecumenical Creeds - The Augsburg Confession (1530) - The Apology of the Augsburg Confession (1531) - The Smalcald Articles (1537) - The Power and Primacy of the Pope (1537) - The Small Catechism (1529) - The Large Catechism (1529) - The Formula of Concord, Epitome (1577) - The Formula of Concord, Solid Declaration (1577) For questions on what the importance of these chapters/declarations/confessions mean please see the FAQ at [...] CONCLUSION: Lutherans "accept without reservation the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament as the written Word of God and the only rule and norm of faith and of practice," and many Lutherans also believe that all the writings in the Book of Concord as "a true and unadulterated statement and exposition of the Word of God" (LCMS Constitution II). This handy and traveler-friendly book is a rich resource of spiritual food - it teaches and confesses that in Christ alone is there salvation -- by grace alone, through faith alone, on the basis of Scripture alone.

If you've always wondered, "Why Lutheran? What's Lutheran?" read this book. It clearly explains what Lutherans believe, using clear Scripture to as the basis for what they believe. The book does a wonderful job of putting each of the Lutheran confessions into their historical context, explaining the significance of the religious and political world scene.

This reader's edition is the best BOC to own out of them all.

This is an awesome copy of the Book of Concord. Awesome pictures inside- including one depicting Luther with Jan Hus.

Shrink wrapped and protected in shipment. Happy with purchase

This book was very solidly put together. I use the book weekly and often on a daily basis. The contents of this book are such that I am constantly going between the different sections, turning pages back and forth. It has stood up well and still does not show any signs of wear.

I had heard of many of the documents in the Lutheran Confessions but never had read them. I didn't grow up LCMS Lutheran so maybe this is just new to me but most people I've talked with who did grow up Lutheran have not read all of the Lutheran Confessions. The parts they have read, they read in Confirmation which was when they were young and many years ago. I think that anyone who is a Lutheran or who is interested in what Lutherans believe, church history, and what the Bible says on some very important Christian issues should read this book. This Reader's Edition has some great helpful information that makes this easy to read. Other than my Bible this is now my favorite book. (and at a great price)

Gave this to my child for Confirmation. It was greatly appreciated.

Expanded and deepened my faith and knowledge more than I could have ever expected!

Easy to read history of Martin Luther and his reformers. This book is filled with amazing insights into the historical, political, social and religious climate during the reformation in Germany. The introductions to each section and article of the Augsburg confession are very helpful. Great read to remember where most of our American church's came from.

There is a lot of good knowledge to be had in these confessions. I think that anyone that identifies as a Lutheran needs to own one of these because this is what a majority of Lutheran churches at least claim to believe. I have found that there are a lot of Lutherans who don't even know this book exists. People need to be more discerning about what their church believes and if it coincides with their personal belief system. They also need to hold their church accountable to stick to the confessions they claim to follow. I think many churches, and even many pastors, have deviated from this. The major point I disagree with involves infant baptism as it is not a biblical concept (you may disagree but that is just what I believe through my own study of the Bible). However, the amount of knowledge and information contained in this book makes it worth reading for anyone studying the Bible and church history.

Very high quality book, very happy to add it to my library. One oddity that I notice about this sort of book is that they come with a reading 'guide' in the preface and the guide has you starting in the middle, turning to the back, then back to the front and then back to the middle etc., why didn't they just print the book in the order that they think you should read it? :P When used as a reference book you use the table of contents to find what you want anyway. :) Great product though, glad I bought it.

Why did they wait so long to write this version? It is incredible.

Beautifully printed and bound, elegant design, superior translation. Bought as a gift for a friend who says it's among the finest volumes in his library.

A good basic book for Lutherans. A must have.

A must for every serious Lutheran.

I've been a Baptist all my life never-the-less, I'm open to things Jewish, Lutheran, Methodist, etc. as long as their theology doesn't contradict major doctrine or try to discredit the Bible in any way. I recently ordered the Concordia and as usual it arrived ahead of schedual and in fine condition. I have been reading it after my personal bible study. Every once in while, I come across something that I'm not sure I agree with but for the most part, I'm finding this book to be a delight to read and study. I perceive that it will help me to have a greater appreciation of the Lord, my God, and all that he has done for me over the years and to be firmly grounded in the truth. If you love the Lord and His word, I should think The Concordia will be a welcome addition to your library. But please, let the word of God have the first and last say so. May The Lord bless you and your families.

A must for anyone wanting to educate themselves and their family on the Lutheran faith.

Great book

This is a hard read but very valuable tool to really get deep into your Lutheran faith.

Great resource for every Christian home.

A must have for any Lutheran.

new book. as expected

Using this in a Bible class. Great resource book.

One of the most beautifully designed and sturdily built books I've ever had the pleasure of owning. The creeds, confessions, and catechisms are presented with a ton of helpful historical and theological study helps, without being overbearing or distracting. The indexes in the back are super helpful for tracking down specific topics of interest. For what it's worth, I'm a Reformed guy with a healthy appreciation for Lutheran theology, and all I can say is that I hope the PCA someday puts out an edition of the Westminster Confession and Catechisms that matches the quality of what Concordia has done with this edition. Well done!

I ordered this book almost two years ago. Prior to that time I was interested in researching the different religious beliefs within Christianity and found out about this book. I have followed the reading guide and have read the entire book. I still read from it weekly and use it as a Biblical reading guide. I find it very helpful in interpreting Biblical passages.

The Concordia book of Concord provides great resource material for working out your faith. It is however, a book for those looking for greater insight into doctrines and passages of scripture, but not a book initially for those unfamiliar with what the Bible says. Sometimes it is difficult to use this version in a Bible study where other's have previous versions because page numbers do not match up.

we were very pleased with our purchase.

Easy to read, with a lot of supporting information. The volume is assembled well, the font size is decent (not one of those 9pt or smaller pocket Bible fonts) and the paper is thick enough to allow for careful highlighting without bleed through. If you want a good overview of the documents that define Lutheran teaching, I don't think you could do better.

Arrived in good condition.

This is a hard cover, nicely bound book with ribbon placeholder. I haven't gotten to use it much yet, but a perusal of it shows its a well organized and user friendly reader's edition.

Am so glad to have this addition of the CONCORDIA. It is filled with wonderful and fascinating history of the Reformation and the development of doctrine as the movement grew and progressed. The pictures as wonderful and all that is necessary to learn about Lutheranism ins included in this fine edition.

product was in good condition, was what I hoped for, and was speedily delivered. I was delighted to find this book in excellent condition at the reduced price.

Great gift for confirmation

good quality

nice print and easy read for the die hard Lutherans. Well indexed and chapter explanation. Although Luther was anti Semitic he originated the doctrine of justification by faith alone

This was recommended by our new pastor at church. It will be used as our new 'tool' in our home to understanding our religion on a better level.

This is a great edition the Lutheran Confessions. Easy to negotiate and easy to read. I made it a gift to a new Lutheran and the person has enjoyed it very much.

I'm not a Lutheran (idk maybe I am now) but I really do believe every Christian can benefit from this book. Every home should have 1) a Bible 2) the book of concord. It's holds God word at the utmost highest, and only seeks to keep it so.

This book is translated into the easiest English to understand while sticking to the original text of german and latin. It also is great because of the historical background of each confession, as well as a large number of quotes from the great Lutherans of the age.

This is a can't miss reading for anyone, one should read it page by page. I am quite sure even if you have read it before you will learn something new.

Very nice.

It's EXACTLY what I wanted. I'm a NEW Lutheran, and this will help me to deeper explore the Reformation. As a reference book and a devotional it's wrapped up in one book. After reading the reviews I see I'm in for the ride of my life!

Ilove this book!It uses the thick paper not the transparent thin one. When you read it, you can feel it very well.

As expected.

This book is amazing in every possible way. The physical book is well-made and of the highest quality. It is beautiful and sturdy. The text is fascinating and dense. I would recommend it for any student of Theology.

Everyone interested in Christianity, especially Lutherans should have this book as a part of their library. I recommend buying this book.

Just what I anticipated.

Just amazing and would recommend it to any Lutheran or Non-Lutheran want a deeper look into what we believe, teach, and confess. (very easy read)

Great

Awesome resource on Lutherans beliefs.

Outstanding

How many times have Lutherans heard from their pastors and informed laypeople, "the Lutheran Confessions says this...?" What they are referring to are the confessional statements gathered over time culminating in 1580 collection entitled: The Book of Concord. This is it in a wonderful, inexpensive, layperson's edition. Thus you have what started it all, The Augsburg Confession and its Apology, then Luther's wonderful works of his smaller and larger catechisms and his beloved Smalcald Articles, as well as what settled the dispute afer his death of what it truly taught, The Formula of Concord. Add to this the vital and interesting Power and Primacy of the Pope by Melanchthon. It has all the aids which dress it up and provide those who haven't yet studied them (each LCMS pastor has in detail and is ordained and installed based on them) and you have a wonderful tool for the layperson to read, study and digest, and then live from as a guide to his Bible study and understanding. These aids include wonderful drawings, appendixes, bible reference index, glossary, reformation overview. What a value! What a resource! What I would recommend is that every interested Christian get a copy, not just you Lutherans or wannabe Lutherans. You will be informed as to just what a Lutheran believes about God's Word here. And for you Lutherans. Buy a copy. Then demand that your pastor offer some Bible Study classes led by him on this various confessions as my congregation has. Right now we have class which has mesmorized and enlightened our people on the Smalcald Articles. We have also had classes on the Larger Catechism, as well as the Augsburg Confession and Forumla of Concord. Of course, we refer to this Book of Concord often in our teaching. Studying this will open the reader to what the Reformation was all about, and the subsequent historical confessional developments that stem from it. And possibly, it will open some to what I have proposed is a fervent need to what ails us: a Formula of Concord for our time which posits the two competing theologies of the too many doctrines that divide the LCMS and then resolves it from Scripture and the Book of Concord. Just as they did in 1580, we need now. Buy this! Read it! Give copies as gifts! Demand nicely your pastor provide Bible studies on it! You and Christ's church will be richly blessed!

The Book of Concord, adopted in 1580, is a collection of seven documents, which together with the 3 historic creeds of western Christianity, are the official teaching of the Lutheran churches. It is both an historic reference to the teaching of the Reformation, and for "confessional" Lutheran churches, the standard of Lutheran orthodoxy. This "Reader's Edition" of the Book of Concord is an unprecedented contribution in the history of English translations of the Book of Concord. The text is a gentle updating of the Dau/Bente translation which appears in the Concordia Triglotta. What makes this book unique are its detailed historic notes and theological commentaries along with helpful timelines, indexes, reproductions of Reformation period art, and very a helpful 52-week reading guide for those who wish to read the entire Book of Concord in a year. This "Reader's Guide" is to the Book of Concord what "study bibles" are to the Holy Scriptures. Even the high quality binding and printing reflect the dignity this book deserves from a Lutheran publisher. Of course, as some reviewers of this book may indicate, there will be personal disagreements regarding some of the historic and theological notations. This is to be expected; it happens also with study bibles. Opinions and applications are bound to vary, and the authoritative texts of the Book of Concord remain the critical editions of the original Latin and German texts. However, the value of this book is to provide an accessible English translation together with historic and theological notes that allow the reader to see these vital documents of the Lutheran Reformation framed in their original context. I recommend the Concordia Reader's Edition to anyone interested in learning about the Lutheran confession of the Christian faith and the Lutheran Reformation from its first sources. It should also be owned and studied by anyone who belongs to a "Lutheran" church or is considering joining a "Lutheran" church. It will be useful both for personal study and for small group discussion and Bible classes dealing with doctrine. Our congregation has sold over 50 copies to satisfied customers and is considering giving a copy as a gift to every household received into membership. This book has my unreserved recommendation. The Rev. William M. Cwirla, pastor Holy Trinity Lutheran Church - Hacienda Heights, CA

The Book of Concord is a collection of documents that lays out what Confessional Lutherans "believe, teach, and confess." This edition of the Book of Concord is a "Reader's Edition" and is intended for laity who have not yet studied these Lutheran Documents thoroughly. The documents that make up the Book of Concord are: The Apostles Creed; the Nicene Creed; the Athanasian Creed; The Augsburg Confession; The Apology of the Augsburg Confession; The Smalcald Articles; The Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope; Luther's Small Catechism; Luther's Large Catechism; and The Formula of Concord. Each document is prefaced with a thorough introduction concerning its historical context, a brief analysis of the theological controversies addressed, and a biographical sketch of its authors (where applicable). In the longer documents, its various articles are given a paragraph of introduction to prep the reader. The Three Ecumenical Creeds address the nature of the Triune God and especially the person and work of Jesus. They are written before the second and eighth centuries. These documents not only proclaim Lutheran's continuity with ancient orthodox Christianity, they still address theological heresies present today. The Augsburg Confession was presented in June, 1530 by college professor Phillip Melanchthon. After the Reformation was fully underway and the authority of Roman Catholic theology challenged, Emperor Charles V requested representatives of Roman Catholicism, Lutheranism, and unaligned (e.g. Calvinist, Zwinglian) theologians to present a statement of their beliefs. This document is the Lutheran statement of beliefs and includes Lutheran beliefs on Justification, Good Works, the Mass, the Sacraments, Monastic Vows, and other issues--both controversial and non-controversial at the time. The Apology [Defense] of the Augsburg Confession was also written by Phillip Melanchthon and published in 1531. Upon hearing the above-mentioned Augsburg Confession, Roman Catholic theologians presented a "Confutation of the Augsburg Confession" that criticized the Lutheran understanding of the faith and demanded that Lutherans unconditionally accept it (without even presenting a written copy of their critique!). Based on notes taken by Lutherans present at the Confutation's reading, Melanchton recapitulated the Augsburg Confession's main points and defended them against competing Roman Catholic points of doctrine. Major issues addressed in the Apology include Justification, Repentance, Confession and Satisfaction, Human Traditions in the Church, Marriage, and the Mass. This is the longest of the documents of the Book of Concord. The Smalcald Articles were written by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther in 1536 in preparation for a (never-held) theological conference where Lutherans and Catholics would be asked to discuss and come to mutual agreement on doctrinal points so as to establish peace. These are intended to be points of doctrine upon which Lutherans could and would not compromise. Major doctrinal points addressed include the Invocation of Saints, Repentance, and the Papacy. It should be noted that Luther (falsely) anticipated his own death to be imminent, so this document is considered a "Last Will and Testament" of sorts. "The Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope" was written by Philip Melanchton in 1537 to serve as a supplement to the Augsburg Confession. It addresses the Papacy and hierarchical structure of the Roman Catholic Church from a Biblical perspective. Martin Luther's Small Catechism (1529) was written by Martin Luther to aide Christian fathers in handing down the basics of the Christian faith to their children. The six chief parts of the Catechism are the Ten Commandments; The Apostles Creed; the Lord's Prayer; Holy Baptism; Confession and Absolution; and Holy Communion. It is presented in a question-and-answer format and is intended to be memorized by children verbatim. Martin Luther's Large Catechism (1529) was written by Martin Luther as an aide for Christian pastors in handing down the basics of the Christian faith to their parishioners. It consists of excerpts from a series of sermons on the Ten Commandments, Apostles Creed, Lord's Prayer, Baptism, Confession and Absolution, and Communion. It covers these issues in a more in-depth, yet straightforward manner. Finally, the Formula of Concord was written by Jacob Andrae, Martin Chemnitz, and Nicholas Selnecker in 1577. After the death of Martin Luther, those who called themselves Lutherans became polarized. Some were willing to compromise nearly all doctrinal points in favor of peace between Lutheran, Catholic, Enthusiasts, and Calvinists; others held to the above documents...yet disagreed on other points of doctrine. Andrae, Chemnitz, and Selnecker dug deep into the writings of Martin Luther and presented his teachings on controversial topics. Free Will, Good Works, The Person of Christ, and Calvinist's teachings on Predestination are among the topics addressed. The book has beautiful woodcuts, biographical sketches, and other historical documents scattered throughout to aide the reader's understanding of the theology and historical context. Helpful appendices are included, including a glossary, index of persons and groups, Bible references, and the "Catelog of Testimonies" (quotes from ancient Church Fathers that support the Lutheran understanding of the faith). Editors Paul Timothy McCain, Robert Cleveland Baker, Gene Edward Veith, and Edward Andrew Engelbrecht are to be commended for presenting an majestic and reader-sensitive presentation of these important documents.

In an age of uncertainty, where people can go through life making it all up as they go along, incredibly enough there appears to be at least one collection of writing that is popular enough to be repackaged and republished to do just the opposite. Rather than making it all up or jumping off the deep-end into the deluge of self-help parapsychology, "Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions--Readers' Edition" provides for truth thirsty minds what a carton of cigarettes does for chain smokers, but there's no risk of cancer here. Its timeless truths based on prophetic and apostolic scriptures were written almost 500 years ago at a time when 'freedom of speech' did not yet exist. The language is shockingly un"P.C.". Do NOT read it! Unless you want to have something to be really passionate about. Do NOT read it! Unless you want to change the world, or at least your experience of it, to the benefit of your friends' and family. Do NOT read it! just for the articles. The color images are brilliant representations of what the pure Christian Gospel conveys to fix what's wrong with the world. Please, if you do read it, enjoy!

If you are a Christian and you want to read a book that explains the Holy Scriptures in great detail look no further than Concordia Reader's Edition. In this reader friendly book you have laid out before you a concise understanding of God's Holy Word - The Bible. In Concordia you will read about the Law and Gospel language that God uses in His Word to convey both the sinfulness of man and his salvation through the Messiah - Jesus Christ. But unlike many theological books, this one brings our heavenly Father's message of sin and salvation to light in layman's terms. In other words, you don't have to be a pastor to understand it. In fact, I have been giving this book to my God-children at their confirmation. So if you are looking for a good book that explains the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, truly the Christian faith, in terms that are easily understood, look no further than Concordia Reader's Edition. Rev. Raymond A. Smith "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." John 1:29

Over the past several years there have been many fine editions of the Book of Concord, which Walther described as a must have for every Lutheran household. What sets this edition apart is the extremely high value offered by CPH. Not only is the volume elegant and aesthetically pleasing, is it chock full of background information and the historical context that is essential for understanding a 16th Century document in a 21st Century setting. The translation is friendly and inviting, offering an easy to understand rendering of the original German and Latin documents. As a pastor, it's a valuable go-to for study and research yet accessible enough to place in the hands of any lay person searching for a deeper understanding of the message of Holy Scripture and the way Lutheran Christians have explained it for the past 5 centuries. Whether you are a professional or amateur student of theology or history, this volume offers tremendous insight into the Reformation, an event that shaped the very foundation of western culture and the world today.

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From the Overview on page xxx, you know this book is going to be helpful. There you'll find an easy to read chart showing the various sections of the Lutheran Confessions, the dates they were written, the authors, and a brief summary of their content. Then there's a Reader's Guide with suggested readings for each weekday over 52 weeks that takes you through the entire book. That's followed by a Reformation Timeline that covers 200 years of key events in a few, short pages. Other useful information is packed into the first pages as well. Thirty-eight pages of very easy to access and useful information before you even get to the beginning of the text! I think that the first section is worth at least half the price. Then you'll find the section introductions, timelines, and outlines throughout the book. I particularly appreciate the introduction to The Formula of Concord, Epitome. All of that is followed by appendixes and indexes. So, while the translation is very helpful and readable, the ancillary material alone is well worth getting the book. This is a book that deserves space on the shelf of every Bible student. Anyone in the Reformation tradition will most especially appreciate having it for regular reading and study. J. D. Lowitzer Collierville, TN

Here's an in depth understanding and application of God's Word that literally changed the world. The documents that served as the basis for the historical upheaval known as the Reformation are all contained in this collection. They've been updated to an easier to read style and surrounded by some historical background to provide a deeper understanding of these truths. Not just for Lutherans, this book will help everyone understand a little better that grace of God that brings freedom and life forever. Pretty good for a book!

Ever wonder about what a Lutheran is? You know you've seen them, heard about them from time to time but don't really know what they believe. Well here is your chance! This is an awesome way to get to the real answers of the Lutheran confession of faith. An excellent exposition of the Bible as God's Word. So, if you even have questions as to what the Bible itself really teaches, this is a great tool to read in parallel with the scriptures, really helps open one's eyes to the truth of God's Word, and exposes the errors of other religious thought. This is a timeless classic that has as much revelance for today as it did when it was originally penned.

At one time all Lutheran households always had two books: the Bible and the Book of Concord. Sadly, the Book of Concord has lately become less known among Lutheran laity. This is probably because the previous English translations fell into two categories that made them less accessible for the laity. Either they were older translations (such as Bente) which, although doctrinally sound, used archaic language; or they were newer translations intended mainly for academic use in seminary classrooms (such as Kolb-Wengert), and thus translated in a scholarly, stilted manner. The ambitious aim of this new edition of the Book of Concord is to renew interest in the Lutheran Confessions, particularly among the laity. The translation is doctrinally accurate yet fresh and easy to understand. There are many helpful features you won't find in any other edition of the Book of Concord, including introductory notes, a timeline, and period illustrations. While it is the latest, most up-to-date English translation, it avoids the extremes of "politically correct" gender neutral editing that so mars the Kolb-Wengert translation. It is also very important to note that a review from last year which states "the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod's Commission on Doctrinal Review has revoked its certification of the first edition" is misleading and no longer applicable. The First Edition was wildly successful and sold out almost immediately, and is no longer in stock. As the Product Details indicates, this IS the Second Edition that is now available. I own both the First and Second Editions, and the changes to the Second Edition are almost entirely in the layout. As the introduction to the Second Edition indicates, the editors at Concordia Publishing House worked closely with the review committee to make a great book even better. It's not just a coincidence that in the latter part of the 20th century there was a decline in interest in the Lutheran Confessions and a corresponding doctrinal and numerical decline in the Lutheran Church. As we enter the 21st century, we must go "back to the future" and return to our Lutheran roots, as found in the TWO books every Lutheran household should have: the Bible, and this new edition of the Book of Concord.

"Know what you believe and why you believe it," is a piece of advice that my grandfather gave me. This book, "Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions" is a leg up on reaching the goal. While it is easy reading, it is a thorough and detailed explanation of what Lutherans believe and why they believe it. It's a handy tool for analyzing what really is sound teaching/doctrine and what is just fluff. I'm really looking forward to a version that is more "wheelchair accessible," either as an audio book or digital.

This is an excellent book. It is high quality, and yet low price. If you want detailed descriptions of the traditional Lutheran beliefs, this is the book to get. In addition to the confessional documents themselves, this book is filled with notes and other helps to help you to understand the context and reasoning behind certain passages. A Lutheran, or any other Christian for that matter, would be foolish not to get this book.

This is a great "Readers' Edition" of the Lutheran Confessions, the set of eleven documents that definitively define the Lutheran Church. There are plenty of introductions, helps for reading, various timelines, and a glossary. The text is in plain modern English, but unabridged, so you aren't missing anything. There are many reformation-era woodcuts throughout the text, fine illustrations, with 32 color plates at the back--some fantastic artwork that illustrates the gospel. This is a great book for Lutherans who want to know the teachings of their church better, or for anyone who wants to learn more about the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is the center of the Lutheran faith.

I highly recommend this readers edition of the Book of Concord, especially for laymen. At the seminary we used the Triglotta - excellent for study, but large and heavy. Tappert is easier to handle, but especially the German, Latin, English of the Augsburg Confession is awkward. Concordia is a pleasant medium. Outstanding features include clear woodcuts, editorial introductions clearly offset, easy reading guide, meaningful Reformation Timeline, complete biblical references, extensive subject index, say nothing of the reasonable price - especially the introductory offer. Concordia was well received by the people of the (vacant) dual parish I am serving - so much so that both congregations ordered copies in bulk so that they might be available for group study. Rev. Alvin Jeske EM Browerville, MN

If you ever ask “what does a Lutheran believe?” This answers it. We don’t say that our confessors could not err, we simply say they didn’t.

Anyone wanting to understand what the Christian church has traditionally confessed should read this volume. In many ways, this edition shares a rich heritage with the Tappert and the Kolb/Wengert editions. However, the Concordia edition is far easier to read and frequently makes even the heaviest of theological concepts understandable. Next to the Bible itself, this book should be in every Christian household.

Short and sweet, this is a user friendly version of a time tested and true resource. Highly recommended for EVERYONE, not just Lutherans, as it contains the basics of our catholic (Christian) faith in the creeds, and explains the reasons that caused the rift between Luther and the Roman Catholic Church and led to the Reformation, and (probably) most of the denominations that exist today. Buy it Read it and Rate it!

The Book of Concord is something EVERY pastor and layman should read. It is a clear understanding of so many relevant Christian truths about life, sin, faith, justification and pretty much anything else. Stop chasing fad after fad... dig into some seriously good, Biblical theology. You'll be glad you did.