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

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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

I doubt that I could write a better review of "Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions -- A Reader's Edition of the Book of Concord (Hardcover)" by Paul Timothy McCain (Editor) than what is already written by the likes of the Rev. William Cwirla or "rodboomboom" of Dearborn, MI , but I would not go so far as to say what one reviewer has and that is, "The Book of Concord consists of the establishing theological documents of early Lutheranism. They are still the primary doctrinal statements for most Lutherans today." The Book of Concord (BoC) contains those arguments, proven from Scripture, that evidence confessional Lutheran Christianity, or as I would prefer, The Church of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as that which adheres to Scripture, The Word of God and not the rationalism of man. It is not so much a question of it being consistent of establishing documents of "early" Lutheranism, but those documents, inclusive of the early Creeds, that show the proper direction of Christianity as opposed to some of the teachings of Rome and those of the other European Reformations (note that Reformations is plural) of the Church then and now. One also has to wonder about the assertion that "They are still the primary doctrinal statements for most Lutherans today" when so many in various synods have turned their back upon these confessions and symbolics whether in the U.S. or elsewhere and use in their title the term "Lutheran." The term, "Lutheran," was foisted or in other words imposed upon the Church of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession so long past and by others but not by Luther or those adherents to the confessions, e.g. Chemnitz, Gerhard, and closer in our day men such as Walther and Sasse. It was used as a label so to speak and not in a positive sense. If a synod claims to be "Lutheran" and adhere to the confessions and symbolics contained in the "BoC," how can they be in pulpit and altar fellowship with those who deny a goodly portion of its contents or accept some but not all contained therein? I admit that there are those in other churches who believe in their hearts what is in the "BoC" but work from within to tell the truth of Scripture, e.g. Christ's Words, "This is, etc." and not just a "memorial" meal.

I once mentioned, in conversation, "The Book of Concord." Someone overheard the discussion and inquired if I was interested in wines. This was from a person who proudly stated that they were a "life long Lutheran" of a given synod, but had no clue as to what the "BoC" was or that it contained those documents that the historic Church has believed. They were thoroughly confused when I then spoke the Luther's Large Catechism.

Leaving the above paragraph at that, it clearly shows the great need for a "Reader's Edition of the Book of Concord" in language not addressed to the academic alone but to a far wider readership that can learn from it and in an historical context as well. It is to learn from and to teach from as well as to pose questions to the learned in our theology to obtain a better understanding of "Gottesdienst," that is what God gives to us, God's service to us, in His Word and Sacraments whether that be in corporate worship where we gather as believers to make confession of our sins and receive absolution, or what we receive from Him within private and family devotions. God gives in abundance to and through us. McCains "Readers Edition" is essential to not only confessional Lutheranism, but to Christianity period as so many "have the wrong end of the stick" as it where. I pray for learning and not confusion of God's Word to the masses and this "Readers Edition" is a right step in that direction as it is derived of God's Word, "Sola Scriptura," A reader, Lutheran or not, who studies it and compares it to God's Word in both Testaments, will profit from this book. If one questions the doctrines of other denominations, this is a tool to help in both learning and formulating questions if you are not certain. Confusion abounds and "American Civil Religion" would have us believe that that confusion is O.K or that there are "many roads" just that we believe in something. ESV John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." That is one of God's bottom line teachings through His Son, Jesus Christ. He does not say, "Do what you will as long as you're happy or feel good" or some such rubbish. Scripture nor the Lutheran Confessions based upon Scripture divert the meaning of the Words of Scripture. See Scripture and this "Reader's Edition of the Book of Concord" which confess only what Scripture tells us and not a human perversion of what God says. I use "says" for He told us then and now the very same thing. God's Words are for all time and not subject to man's desires to edit to his will over time.

If you can't afford the "Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions -- A Reader's Edition of the Book of Concord (Hardcover)" right now ask to borrow a copy at minimum. But, it still would be best to have a copy for one's self. Some books are a must have, e.g. a truthful translation of Scripture (the Bible)and I would add this one as an important accessory.

For those who ask, "Did you ever question what you believe?" The answer is yes and quite a few decades ago as a young soldier. Soldiering can lead you to question things, even one's own faith. Study of Scripture in depth and the Book of Concord were a God given gift to me. I found that what I had been taught in Sunday School and Church, Catechism classes and post Catechism classes were true to what God has taught us in Scripture. That was a new beginning for me and taught me the lesson that learning in His Word is an ongoing process. There are days when we all slip and fall or find our faith weak for whatever reason. Returning to Scripture and the teachings derived truthfully from Scripture is of the most great import.

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

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.

The 2nd edition is finally out! I can't wait to add it to my library even though I already own the 1st edition. This would be a wonderful gift for a confirmand.

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

"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 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.

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