Between Wittenberg and Geneva - Paperback

by Robert Kolb (Preface by), Carl R. Trueman (Preface by)

At the 500th anniversary of the Wittenberg Reformation, two highly regarded scholars compare and contrast the history and theological positions of the Reformed and Lutheran traditions. The authors tackle nine theological topics significant for the life of the church that remain a source of division between the two traditions. The book helps readers evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the Reformed and Lutheran approaches to presenting the biblical message and invites honest, irenic, and open dialogue within the Protestant family.

Back Jacket

Lutheran theologian Robert Kolb and Reformed theologian Carl Trueman offer robust confessional approaches to classical theological loci, seeking to ground faith in the scriptural truth of the Word. Eschewing the polemics of earlier centuries and embodying the best in civility and integrity, each thinker shows the marked similarities and differences between their two traditions. This book invites both Lutheran and Reformed theologians and pastors to a greater appreciation, awareness, and understanding of each other's traditions and in this way to become more fluent in each other's milieu and more gracious toward each other. This is a needed book.
--Mark Mattes, Grand View University

"One could scarcely ask for any better-qualified exponents of classic Lutheran and Reformed views than Kolb and Trueman--two theologians who are well able to articulate a confessional stance while simultaneously nurturing friendship and a mutual Christian bond. Between Wittenberg and Geneva can serve as a terrific introduction to the distinctive biblical interpretations and pastoral convictions of each of these two traditions, not only as usually attributed to Luther and Calvin but also as traced through the several generations (and controversies) that followed. Warmly recommended for both tone and content."
--John L. Thompson, Fuller Theological Seminary

"This book is a must-read. Historically grounded, self-critical, and convinced that his confession best summarizes biblical teaching, each author engages in something quite unique and important--talking to each other. In the process, the authors exhibit not only key differences but also the shared legacy that is often overlooked in our nonconfessional age."
--Michael Horton, Westminster Seminary California

"A treasure for all students of the Reformation. Kolb and Trueman provide an eminently readable, insightful, and charitable guide to the major theological concerns of the Lutheran and Reformed confessional traditions. They tackle the major doctrines of the Reformation, examining with great clarity and honesty both the shared convictions and sharp disagreements of Luther, Zwingli, Calvin, and their theological heirs. Pastors and laypeople, teachers and students will all benefit from the rich content and irenic tone of this book."
--Carl L. Beckwith, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University

Robert Kolb (PhD, University of Wisconsin) is Mission Professor of Systematic Theology Emeritus at Concordia Seminary. Carl R. Trueman (PhD, University of Aberdeen) is the William P. Simon Fellow in Religion and Public Life in the James Madison Program at Princeton University.

Author Biography

Robert Kolb (PhD, University of Wisconsin) is Mission Professor of Systematic Theology Emeritus at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, and is the author of many books.

Carl R. Trueman (PhD, University of Aberdeen) is professor of biblical and religious studies at Grove City College in Grove City, Pennsylvania, and is the author of numerous books. He previously served as Paul Woolley Professor of Church History at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia and as a visiting fellow at Princeton University.