So writes Victor Shepherd in this immensely readable and informative book - which aids in just such an immersion. Shepherd sets the ethos and legacy of Luther's theology in its theological, religious, and sociopolitical context, tracing Luther's theological development in chapters on such topics as:

-Humanism in the fifteenth century
-Freedom in Christ
-The Lord's Supper
-Law and Gospel
-Church and state
-Luther and the Jewish people

And all the while, he keeps a careful eye on the implications of applications of Luther's thought for Christians and churches today.