Originally appearing more than 50 years ago, Johannes Heckel's Lex Charitatis: A Juristic Disquisition on Law in the Theology of Martin Luther, brought new clarity to the much-disputed issue of Luther's understanding of the law and of God's governance, the created order, and justification by faith.
Luther's use of the language of 'two kingdoms' and 'two governances' transformed the world socially, politically, and religiously upsetting standing order that had been place for over a millennia. Yet, they are still bitterly contested and the last word has not been said on them. Nevertheless, it is Heckel's work that sounded the first gun, and itis without question a critical text in studying Luther's theology. Having Lex Charitatis in English will assist scholars and students alike in examining Luther's thought, its trajectory, and its ongoing relevance for the current age.
