Here I would like to encourage the use of such theological enchiridions both for laymen and pastors. The Lutheran faith has an enormous treasure of dogmatic treatises. Although most of these are and likely will always be locked away in Latin, and therefore inaccessible to most people, 21st century Lutherans have been blessed by God in that we do have many great works in English, such as Gerhard's Theological Commonplaces, Martin Chemnitz's Works (Examination, On the Two Natures, Loci Theologici, etc.), and Francis Pieper's Christian Dogmatics. Many of us are fortunate enough to have the time, energy, money, and ability to read and benefit from such works; however, perhaps even more of us have neither the time, energy, money, or ability to utilize these works as we ought to.
Unfortunately, this may often lead to many pastors and laymen, but especially pastors, to altogether give up on studying these theological treasures. "Pieper? I remember reading that in my seminary days. Gerhard? Who has money for that." Such is the sentiment of many people today. Sometimes, the sentiment is justified. Books are expensive, and pastors and laymen are certain to be kept busy by their work and families. Yet, time must be set aside for the study of God's Word and His doctrines purely explained and taught. This is why the use of enchiridions and handbooks are so useful, and ought to be further encouraged and utilized. There is great value in being able to utilize the Zweihänder of something like Gerhard's full Theological Commonplaces, but we must remember that there is also great value in the dagger.
Therefore, here is a suggested guide for how to get good, solid Lutheran theology that is both comprehensive and short. First and foremost, it should be noted that the Bible is absolutely essential for the studies of laymen and pastors. Without the study of the Bible, all theology is worthless and vain. Likewise, all pastors must be regularly in the Book of Concord. While it may be permissible for pastors to not crack open their Pieper's Dogmatics in years, it is not acceptable for a pastor to neglect his Lutheran Confessions.
Some good options for easy and succinct theological study include, but are not limited to:
- The Small and Large Catechisms of Dr. Martin Luther (Combined Copy Here)
This resource is give more for the sake of laymen than for pastors, as it is the "layman's Bible" and contains everything necessary for a Christian to know for their salvation (FC EP The Summary Content, Rule, and Norm 5).
- Succinct and Select Theological Aphorisms in Twenty-Three Chapters Containing the Core of All Theology Drafted and Adapted for Use in Scholastic Disputations by Johann Gerhard (Paperback Here)
This resource provides an excellent look into the theology of Johann Gerhard, with numerous connections and similarities to his Loci.
- Ministry, Word, and Sacraments: An Enchiridion by Martin Chemnitz (Paperback Here / Hardcover Here)
This resource was written to be used twice a year by superintendents for the examination of pastors, and so it is a fitting tool to use to hold one-self accountable.
- Compend of Lutheran Theology by Leonard Hutter (IA Scan Here / Print/Kindle Here / Hardcover Reprint Here / Paperback Reprint Here)
This resource largely draws from the Bible and the Formula for its theology, although it also makes use of many other Lutheran sources, such as Melanchthon's Loci. It has great value for its brevity and clarity.
These enchiridions can be used either by reading them all straight through, or by incorporating them into your devotional reading schedule in small sections.
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