Pietism and the Sacraments: The Life and Theology of August Hermann Francke

August Hermann Francke was a key figure in the development of evangelicalism and global Protestantism, and Peter James Yoder's book explores his theology of the sacraments. It provides insights into the structure of Francke's Pietist thought and how it shaped his views of the sacraments and the church. The book challenges long-held assumptions about Pietism and argues for its influence on the eighteenth-century religious landscape. It will become the standard reference on Francke for American audiences and will influence scholarship on Lutheranism, Pietism, early modern German studies, and eighteenth-century history and religion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 06 December 2022
Publisher: Pennsylvania State University Press

August Hermann Francke, a prominent German Pietist, lived during a transformative era when there was a growing emphasis on conversion, which eventually led to significant shifts in the understanding and practice of sacraments in evangelical theology. In his book, Peter James Yoder explores the life and theological ideas of Francke, utilizing his theology of the sacraments as a lens to understand the ecclesiological movements that paved the way for the rise of evangelicalism and global Protestantism.

Yoder delves into Franckes manuscript sermons and writings, providing a comprehensive analysis of his life and religious thought. By examining Franckes theology of the sacraments, Yoder offers valuable insights into the structure of his Pietist philosophy, shedding light on his conversion-driven theology and its profound impact on his views of the sacraments and the church. This book stands as the first in-depth study of Franckes theology written specifically for an English-speaking audience, contributing to the ongoing scholarship that challenges long-held assumptions about Pietism and advocates for its significant influence on the changing religious landscape of the eighteenth century.

Through his examination of Franckes theology of the sacraments, Yoder presents a fresh perspective on the eighteenth-century ecclesiological developments that ruptured with the dogmas of the Reformation. This study recognizes Franckes immense importance to the history of Pietism in Germany and beyond, making it a valuable resource for American audiences and shaping scholarship on Lutheranism, Pietism, early modern German studies, and eighteenth-century history and religion.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780271088013