Institute for the Study of Luther in the Asian Context

As a Lutheran seminary with a history going back to 1913, LTS understands one of its responsibilities to be to introduce Luther's theology and the Lutheran heritage to Chinese Christians, and to develop these areas within the Chinese churches. In view of this, LTS seeks to share the Lutheran contribution within as wide a scope as possible: in the pluralistic city of Hong Kong, in post-denominational China, and throughout Asia. We are convinced that denominations must no longer be entities of mutual exclusion, but rather centers of rich heritage and tradition within the one body of Christ.

LTS is ideally suited to the task of the contextual study of Luther’s theology within Chinese society because it is the repository of significant literature in Lutheran studies, such as major collections of Luther’s works (Weimarer Ausgabe, American Edition and Erlanger Ausgabe), and since its faculty includes not only several Lutheran theologians, but also some teachers specializing in Luther studies.

Interest in Luther among Chinese intellectuals has increased significantly in recent years. LTS recognizes the need to provide for these intellectuals study materials (such as the original texts and study facilities) and personnel resources (such as scholars who understand Luther within his Christian context).

For these and other reasons, LTS has established this Institute for the Study of Luther in the Asian Context as a further step toward the support and encouragement of our Asian brothers and sisters in the development of their own contextualization of Luther’s theology.

Further information on the foci and structure of the Institute can be obtained by contacting the Research Coordinator of the Institute.