Foundations of a Lutheran Theology of Evangelism

The major question of this work is whether Lutheran theology provides a basis for evangelism, and if so, what the theological principles are which contemporary Lutherans would have at their disposal. These theological principles are intended to serve as the foundation for later practical application. The work is set against the background of an increasingly secularised Western society. Discussion of the mission theology of the World Council of Churches and the Evangelical churches places the ensuing Lutheran discussion in its ecumenical context. The study provides a broad outline of the Lutheran theological understanding of evangelism from Luther to the present time. The focus remains on theological principles of the various eras of Lutheranism which are relevant to mission. Finally, ten theses for a Lutheran theology of evangelism are set up.