No Greater Jewel: Thinking about Baptism with Luther

Lutheran Voices

by Kirsi Stjerna

Luther writes in his Large "No greater jewel, therefore, can adorn our body and soul than baptism, for through it we become completely holy and blessed, which no other kind of life and no work on earth can acquire."

Of all Christian rituals, baptism, in its historical, theological and spiritual importance, warrants constant re-examination and careful dusting in an effort to polish and present the jewel passed on to us. In No Greater Jewel Luther's teaching of baptism is unfolded in light of specific issues arising around Lutheran practices and understanding of baptism today. The wisdom of Luther's words offers helpful perspectives for spiritual living and impetus for living with hope and ethical integrity in this world—inspired by the kind of love Jesus preached and demonstrated in his life.

101 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2009

About the author

Rev. Dr. Kirsi Stjerna, First Lutheran, Los Angeles/Southwest Synod Professor of Lutheran History and Theology, Chair, at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary of California Lutheran University. Author of "Women and the Reformation" and "Reformaation Naisia". Co-author of "Martin Luther, the Bible and the Jewish People" with Rev. Dr. Brooks Schramm. Translator/Editor of Rev. Dr. Tuomo Mannermaa's "Christ Present in Faith" and "Two Kinds of Love". Translator of Rev. Dr. Martti Nissinen's "Homoeroticism in the Biblical World." Co-editor of "Apocalyptic and Human Agency: Conversations with Augustine of Hippo and Martin Luther," with Dr. Deanna A. Thompson. General Editor, with Dr. Hans Hillerbrand and Rev Dr. Timothy Wengert, of "The Annotated Luther", and Volume 2 editor, "Word and Faith", forthcoming September 2015.

Reviews

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

If anyone wants a thorough overview of the Lutheran perspective on Baptism, I’d give them this read. Accessible and foundational.