Book Review: The Spirituality of the Cross

If you’re curious about the distinctiveness of Lutheran theology, but don’t have time to read more scholarly or ‘dense’ works on the topic, Veith’s text is an admirable summary of the core theological differences between Lutheranism and other Christian denominations.

Veith’s stated purpose is not to provide theological arguments against other denominational approaches to the faith, but rather to lay out as simply as possible the Lutheran approach, noting where it differs from others without overly defending Lutheranism or attacking others. He does a good job at this, which lends the book focus, clarity, and an ecumenical accessibility that is less likely to offend than it is to inform.

Veith makes good use of a variety of different theologians, from Luther himself, of course, to Gustaf Wingren, H. Richard Niehbur, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer. These supports anchor and inform Veith’s work while providing it with depth and insight. Veith’s purpose is not to preach, but to relate and to inform, and he strikes a tone that is friendly and easy to understand.