Despite the enormous impact of the Lutheran Reformation on Christianity and the world, few books explore the history of the Lutheran church. This volume assembles leading experts on each century of Lutheranism to provide an overview of the history of the Lutheran church. From Martin Luther to the present day, from Germany to a global church, this volume traces the theological developments, missionary endeavors, educational institutions, and overall life of the Lutheran church through the centuries. Readers will gain an understanding of the broad sweep of Lutheranism along with resources for detailed studies of key figures and movements. While surveying all of Lutheranism, the book primarily follows the course of confessional Lutherans. Anyone interested in the history of Lutheranism will find this volume to be a great introduction, and a great resource in the classroom.