Dr. Joel Biermann (Professor of Systematic Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) has written an important book entitled A Case for Character: Towards a Lutheran Virtue Ethics. I should begin by defining virtue ethics. You may have taken a course in Christian ethics that dealt with issues like abortion, euthanasia, just war, and capital punishment. Virtue ethics, on the other hand, is more interested in the routine, ordinary habits and practices that people make in daily life. Virtue ethics assumes that humans have a telos (purpose for which we are made), and that certain practices, habits, skills, and even communities will help us attain this telos better than others. Biermann argues that Lutheran theology, properly understood, is well-suited for producing people of virtue, although many argue that just the opposite is true.
Trials of Theology: Becoming a ‘Proven Worker’ in a Dangerous Business
If you would like to read one book that summarizes the attempt of seminaries to impart pastoral wisdom to its students, The Trials of Theology: Becoming a ‘Proven Worker’ in a Dangerous Business is such a book. This little (190-page) book, using theologians from the past and present, attempts to encapsulate fundamental pastoral training.
The Augsburg Confession: Its Meaning for Our Day
Christianity Today released an article in October 2018, highlighting an alarming report from Ligonier Ministries. It noted, “More than two-thirds (69%) of Americans disagree that the smallest sin deserves eternal damnation. . . .” Putting the most charitable construction on the findings of the report, the state of theology in America today is confused. Well-intentioned people are revisiting ancient teachings the Church has deemed heretical. That being said, how does the average church member protect himself from being led into one of these teachings?