Customer Reviews

Luther's Small Catechism

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Luther made the discovery back in the 1520s that those professing the Christian faith lacked most if not all the basic knowledge to properly do so. He determined that if there was to be a true reform of the Church, it would have to begin at the level of the parishes, which is why he wrote this little book.

Designed to teach adherents to the Christian faith the basics, the most rudimentary elements, of the practice of that faith, Luther wrote the Small Catechism for the instruction of children. The Lord's Prayer, the Ten Commandments, and Apostle's Creed, all briefly commented and explained. Simple. Elegant. Essential.

What with hoards of people flocking to the free-style catharsis of the non-denominational, 'spirit filled' operations that likely as not call themselves 'worship centers' rather than churches, any remaining Lutherans need to cling closely to our own teachings. This is the best way I know of to strengthen that grasp.

One can't really review Luther's Small Catechism itself since it's been around for 100's of years and is The handbook for Lutheran confirmation. I am reviewing this particular edition. I bought this many years ago because I wanted a hardcover version of the catechism. Since then I've received a Bible that includes the chief parts of the catechism, so I don't plan to keep this book. Unlike other editions, this one includes an interesting introduction although you can read it from "Look Inside", explanatory notes at the bottom of a few pages, services for marriage and baptism from booklets said to be included with the catechism, and a lectionary. This edition from Augsburg Fortress would make a nice gift for those entering confirmation in an ELCA church, as it includes a page for an inscription and it replaces Luther's versions of the confession and services with the versions from the Lutheran Book of Worship. I give this three stars because it makes a good gift book for particular readers, but many may prefer having a book that includes the catechism closer to Luther's original version, such as The Lutheran Study Bible (published by CPH) or the Book of Concord (published by either CPH or Augsburg).

This edition of Luther's Small Catechism is excellent. The introduction by Timothy Wengert is thorough and informative. I especially like the additional information in the book, including Luther's Preface to the Small Catechism of 1529, as well as the inclusion of Lutheran services and other helpful information. This is the best edition of the catechism I have found.