Book Review: Rescuing The Gospel by Erwin W Lutzer

The Reformation was a critical point in church history as Martin Luther took a stand against heresy in the church. Martin Luther believed that justification was by faith apart from the law and the papacy. We are approaching the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. Many book and articles will be posted regarding this momentous event that took place so many centuries ago.

Erwin Lutzer has written a book that takes a look at the history of the Reformation which is called Rescuing The Gospel. This book looks at the spiritual development of Martin Luther and what led him to write his famous 95 Thesis. The book also talks about periods that happened prior to the Reformation.

Lutzer writes about what Luther endured during this time. He also writes on the influence of Anabaptists and John Calvin along with Calvinism. One very important question Lutzer addresses, is the Reformation over? This is an important question because many in the church think it is over while others say it is not because there still much work need to be done in the church. Lutzer says Luther's protest is over but there are still teachings against the gospel that need to be protested.

What makes this book interesting is while there are words on the page, there are also some pictures on some of the pages which shows paintings of Luther and other key figures in the Reformation. The book does not go overboard with the illustrations to make you feel like you were looking at a picture book.

Church history is a very important subject for the church to look at. It tells us where the church has been and where it might be heading. It amazes me when I look at church history how the issues back in the day are still happening in our day and time. With the 500th anniversary of the Reformation coming up, this would be a good book for pastors, elders, or small group leaders to read and study with their people.

Thanks Baker Books for allowing me to review this book.