Long Before Luther, by Nathan Busenitz, attempts to answer the question “Was the Reformation doctrine of justification by faith alone an invention or a recovery?” The author has done very extensive research to give answer to this question. Using quotes from pre-Reformation writers and scripture from the Bible, the author shows us the doctrine held by the Reformers were not new but rather were taken from the Bible and carried down.
This book goes into so much depth that I found myself no able to understand some of it. This book gives a lot of detail about church history as well. The book is broken up into four sections with just 11 chapters and 64 pages. The book give a look into church history, the beliefs of pre-Reformers and Reformers. The book also contains 25 pages of 100 quotes from church history showing salvation by grace alone and the truth that believers are justified through faith in Christ, not by works. This was the part of the book that spoke to me the most.
Due to the extensive quotes, I feel this book is far advanced for the person who wants to learn more about the reformation and church history. I feel this book is meant more for the students, scholars, or theologians. For this reason, I give this book a 4.
I received a copy of this book from Moody Publishing, this is my honest review.
242 pages
ISBN: 9780802418029
Publisher: Moody Publishers/Masters Seminary Press
Nathan Busenitz is teaches Historical Theology at the Master’s Seminary. He has completed his doctorate in church history focusing on patristic theology.
Some places this book can be purchased are:
https://www.christianbook.com/before-luther-tracing-gospel-christ-reformation/nathan-busenitz/9780802418029/pd/418024
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/long-before-luther-nathan-busenitz/1125898094?ean=9780802418029
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