This paper is intended to demonstrate an understanding of the history and theology of the Lutheran
Confessions. The paper will explore one significant doctrine explored/discussed in the confessions. Students will choose a substantial teaching (e.g., something related to Christology, Soteriology, etc.) and examine the
doctrine as it was presented/discussed in the Lutheran Confessions. Careful attention will be given to both the
historical context and the theological content of the confessions.
Students will…

• Explore the theological content of a single teaching via a careful examination of the way in which the
doctrine was discussed historically. What is the errant position being contested? Who taught it? Where
was it presented and why? How did the doctrine come to be contested by the Lutherans?

• Explain the relationship of the doctrine positively presented in the confessions to the teaching of
Scripture. How/where is the doctrine drawn from Scripture? How did the Lutherans respond to false
conceptions? What is ultimately at stake?

• Explore/interact with what was being taught by critically evaluating how the teaching impacts the
Christian faith. How might the errors be exposed as such? How does the proclamation of this
particular truth serve the gospel?

Basic requirements (ask yourself whether you have covered these before submitting your paper)
The body of the paper should be no fewer than fifteen pages (not counting title page and/or the works cited
page). Use 12-point Times or Times New Roman font with double spacing and 1” margins on all sides. Use
left justification (not full justification). Format the paper according to the guidelines presented in the Chicago
Manual of Style and cite sources accordingly. Consult and engage at least eight substantive (i.e., significantly
scholarly) sources. Online sources are NOT ALLOWED.