Lutheranism 101 has proven to be a big hit, with tens of thousands of copies already sold. We’ve had to go back on press with it several times already. A big request we have received is that we prepare a course based on Lutheranism 101 that can be used in congregations for adult instruction, confirmation, new member orientation, small group study, Bible classes, you name it, the possibilities are endless. Well….here you go. I’m pleased to tell you about Lutheranism 101: The Course. It will not be out until this August, but I wanted to give you advanced notice about it and tell you more about it. When it comes into inventory, I’ll let you know. So keep your eyes open for further news.

Lutheranism 101: The Course works closely with Lutheranism 101 to take the reader deeper into the teaching, doctrine, or practice being presented. Sometimes that means digging into the text of Lutheranism 101 and exploring connections that are being made. Other times it means working with Scripture or some of the primary Lutheran resources for doctrine and practice.

For those new to Lutheranism and for those who want a fresh approach to the heritage of what Lutherans believe, teach, and confess, Lutheranism 101 together with Lutheranism 101: The Course helps create a solid foundation upon which a lifetime of sound teaching can be built. Besides your personal copy of Lutheranism 101, it will be useful to have these books with you as you work through The Course:

A Bible
Comments and quotations in Lutheranism 101 and The Course are based upon the English Standard Version (ESV). When choosing a Bible, we suggest that it is best to use a translation instead of a paraphrase. The best Bible to use with The Course is The Lutheran Study Bible.

Book of Concord
The Book of Concord is a collection of statements of faith written by Lutheran Christians in the sixteenth century when they were risking their lives to stand up for the Bible being the basis for belief and practice in the Church. It was first published in 1580. The best version of the Book of Concord to use with Lutheranism 101 is the edition specifically prepared to aid understanding: Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions, 2nd ed. (St. Louis: Concordia, 2006). This is the edition The Course references.

Hymnal
Hymnals offer excellent resources for individual worship and prayer in addition to settings for worship (Divine Service) and hymns. Throughout The Course you will be directed to Lutheran Service Book, which is the hymnal used my much of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.

Small Catechism
While the Small Catechism is included in the Book of Concord and in many contemporary Lutheran hymnals, recent English editions include extra explanations that make the catechism even more helpful as a teaching and learning tool. The best edition of the Small Catechism for this purpose is Luther’s Small Catechism With Explanation.

The Course can be used by groups, families, and individuals who want to dig deeper into what it means to be Lutheran. After reading a chapter in Lutheranism 101, turn to the corresponding chapter in The Course and work through the questions.