Being the 500^th anniversary of Martin Luther nailing the 95 Theses to the Church in Wittenberg, it seems like you can find references to Luther and the Reformation all over, which is understandable as the impact Luther had was great, especially for those of us who call ourselves Lutherans. However, if someone asked you why you believed something as a Lutheran, how clearly do you think you could answer? I know I’ve been in situations where I haven’t been able to communicate something properly; I’m sure you have as well. As believers though, we should be able to tell others not only what we believe, but why, which is what the book Called to Believe, Teach, and Confess: An Introduction to Doctrinal Theology sets out to do.

The first thing you might notice when you see the book Called to Believe, Teach, and Confess is the size. As a lengthy book (with a slightly imposing title), it may seem daunting to those who haven’t spent much time studying theology. However, as the authors point out in the first chapter, theology “is the study of God as He reveals Himself,” and it “seeks to understand the things that God has revealed to us and how this revelation applies in our lives and world.” This is why a book like this is something that is beneficial for all believers, because it encourages the growth and understanding of our faith. “Theology is not simply an academic exercise . . . it helps us understand biblical teaching better and aids us in presenting and communicating it to other people.” It brings us to a place where we can understand not only what we believe, but also why we hold to a particular belief, and how that belief is put into practice in our daily lives.

The book itself is well written in an engaging and easy-to-read manner, which allows readers to focus on the content being discussed. The authors are all Lutheran pastors and professors, which allows them to focus the way they approach each topic, grounding it in Scripture and providing a solid Lutheran understanding in each chapter. The book is set up with Scripture references in each chapter, allowing you to read your Bible along with it, reading for yourself the passages they are drawing from. It also includes additional resources for furthering your study on each subject, as well as providing study questions and a glossary for terms that can aid in your understanding. Whether reading it on your own or going through it with a group, it is a beneficial book to read for all who are seeking to deepen their understanding about what we believe.

Diane Brubakken
AFLC Parish Education Administrative Assistant
Plymouth, MN

Order your copy here: Ambassador Publications Online Store 

Also available in an abridged and condensed version, Called to Believe: A Brief Introduction to Christian Doctrine.