On Interpreting Sacred Scripture and Method of Theological Study

About This Volume

On Interpreting Sacred Scripture consists of two of Johan Gerhard's commonplaces and one additional collection on method: On Scripture, On Interpretation, and Methods

On Scripture defends the sufficiency, perfection, wholeness, and perspicuity of the scriptures, while also covering the role of tradition and the history of the canon.

On Interpretation argues for the credibility of language in the scriptures, suggesting that it is reasonable to believe that one can understand what the Holy Spirit says through the words God has chosen. Gerhard encourages a predominantly literal approach to the scriptures, but allows for allegorical, tropological, and other supporting modes of interpretation.

Methods collects Gerhard's prescriptions for proper, faithful study of the scriptures, including a foundational practice of prayer, the study of original languages, and a supplemental education in philosophy and theology.

About This Series

The Theological Commonplaces series is the first-ever English translation of Gerhard's monumental Loci Theologici. Gerhard was the premier Lutheran theologian of the early seventeenth century. Combining his profound understanding of evangelical Lutheran theology with a broad interest in ethics and culture, he produced significant works on biblical, doctrinal, pastoral, and devotional theology. Gerhard interacts with the writings of the church fathers, Luther and his contemporaries, and the Catholic and Calvinist theologians of his day. His 17-volume Loci is regarded as the standard compendium of Lutheran orthodoxy, with topics ranging from the proper understanding and interpretation of Scripture to eschatology.

Useful for research on Lutheran doctrine, Gerhard's accessible style makes this a must-have on the bookshelf of pastors and professional church workers.

Each embossed hardback volume includes

• the translation of Gerhard's Loci (originally published from 1610 to 1625)
• - a glossary of key theological, rhetorical, and philosophical terms
• - a name index
• - a Scripture index
• - a carefully researched works cited list that presents guidance for deciphering the numerous abbreviations of the other titles from which Gerhard quotes.