Common wisdom concerning Luther and Calvin suggests that these two theologians do not relate the testimony of Christ to the conscience in the same way. Zachman undertakes the long overdue comparison of their theologies, especially the ways in which Luther and Calvin define and describe the conscience and relate this to the testimonies of the Word and the Spirit. While remaining critical of the distinction that both Luther and Calvin sought to maintain between the foundation of assurance and its confirmation in faith and election, Zachman concludes that although Luther and Calvin have different emphases in their theological treatment of the conscience, they fundamentally agree: the foundation of the peace, assurance, and certainty of conscience lies in the grace of God for us, as revealed to the conscience both by the external witness of the Word of God and the internal witness of the Holy Spirit. This is was originally published in the early 1990s by Fortress Press. It has been out of print for three to four years.

About the Author

Randall C. Zachman is Associate Professor of Reformation Studies and Director, MA and MTS Programs in Theology, at the University of Notre Dame

Reviews

"A judicious, balanced, fresh and insightful study into a central aspect of the pastoral theology of the Reformation. It deserves a wide readership." - Alister McGrath in The Expository Times"