The Conservative Reformation and Its Theology written by Charles Porterfield Krauth is an academic and well-reasoned defense of the Conservative Reformation. It is the culmination of many years of study by its author; his magnum opus. The title, “Conservative Reformation,” is used to distinguish the Lutheran teaching from other groups which were not as concerned about holding on to the teaching of the historic Church. Krauth presents the teaching of the Church Fathers, as Luther did, showing how the Lutheran teachings are that which has always been taught in faithful churches through the generations. The book is also historical as it describes Martin Luther and his great work in translating the Bible into German. It was amazing to read the many quotes given by Luther’s theological opponents that praised Luther’s life and character.

The heart of this book is the treatment of the teachings concerning original sin, the person of Christ, Baptism, and the Lord’s Supper. Krauth writes as one who thoroughly understands the teachings of those for and against the Lutheran Confessions. I would recommend this book as a reference to those who might get into a discussion about any of these topics.

This book is massive and not likely a book many would desire to sit down and read straight through. However, as a defense of the doctrine of the Lutheran Church, it is a valuable work. Krauth wrote in the 19^th century, and we might begin to think that what he said would be old and stale. But the accusations made against the Lutheran Church in the 16^th century and the 19^th century are being repackaged in the 21^st century. The teachers in the Lutheran Church desired to present the whole truth to the people of their day. They worked to pass on the faith once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3).

I was encouraged to see that such a well-reasoned and thorough book has been presented to the people of our day through its reprinting. It makes clear that the Reformation and the presentation of what Lutherans believe, teach, and confess was not just what happened to be on their minds at the time. It was a presentation of a thorough and prayerful study of the Scriptures, with a consideration of arguments against it from the Roman Church as well as other factions, including those headed by individuals like Calvin and Zwingli. Those arguments continue to make the rounds today, which makes this book a valuable tool for us as we defend the teachings of Scripture.

Pr. Dennis Norby
AFLC Board of Publications and Parish Education
Plymouth, MN

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