The Lutheran Reformation of the early sixteenth century brought about immense and far-reaching change in the structures of both church and state, and in both religious and secular ideas. This book investigates the relationship between the law and religious ideology in Luther's Germany, showing how they developed in response to the momentum of Lutheran teachings and influence. Profound changes in the areas of education, politics and marriage were to have long-lasting effects on the Protestant world, inscribed in the legal systems inherited from that period. John Witte, Jr. argues that it is not enough to understand the Reformation either in theological or in legal terms alone but that a perspective is required which takes proper account of both. His book should be essential reading for scholars and students of church history, legal history, Reformation history, and in adjacent areas such as theology, ethics, the law, and history of ideas.

'This book breaks new ground … succeeds in mastering the daunting task of tracing the link between law and theology in the Lutheran Reformation … The task is accomplished with solid scholarship, presented in an engaging literary style.’

Source: Theology Today

‘Reformation scholars of all kinds will find this a most stimulating and rewarding study, for which the author is to be thanked and congratulated.’

Source: The Journal of Ecclesiastical History

'… carefully researched and illuminating volume … for the general legal historian, and for those reflecting on how far religious conviction still finds an echo in modern law, Law and Protestantism renders impressive service.'

Source: Ecclesiastical Law Journal

'Undoubtedly the book by John Witte Junior is an extremely erudite and thorough analysis of the legal teachings of the Lutheran Reformation. I have learnt an enormous amount from reading it and highly recommend it to both lawyers and theologians who are interested in the Reformation and indeed thinking about the links between law and theology.'

Source: Evangelical Quarterly