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Luther on Vocation

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Before the time of the reformation, entrance into the ministry was seen as a higher calling than that of the average man. The monk locked up in a cloister was more spiritual than the faithful baker. Ordination was referred to by some as a "second baptism." Luther's idea of vocation turned this idea on it's head.
God calls us, not to leave this world but to be a part of this world and effect it in a positive way. Our faith goes up to heaven toward God, and by that faith we are justified in God's sight. Now that our relationship with God has been restored, we have the duty to live in love toward our neighbor. Through our vocation we serve our neighbor. This vocation could be preaching, baking, working in the government, or any number of things. Not one vocation is more spiritual than another. What is important is that the Christian is serving his neighbor through that vocation. Wingren does an excellent and extensive job overviewing Luther's writings to piece together a systematic explanation of one of the major theme's of his writings. Chapter long sections devoted to this topic in other books simply do not do Luther justice. To understand Luther, this book is a must read.

This is a great book, and an important contribution to the field of vocation and the Christian Life. Wingren, a scandanavian pastor and bishop, was a brilliant writer. Most of his other books are out of print, but this one continues to breathe new life into Luther studies.