The concept of the office founded on sola gratia and sola fide -- The universal priesthood as the embodiment of the office -- The rationale for the concrete office from the universal priesthood -- The divine character of the concrete office -- The call to the office as legitimization of the office-bearer -- The meaning of ordination -- Summary -- Foundations for the concept of the ministry -- The office as divine insitution -- The legitimate call to the office -- Ordination -- Melanchthon and Luther.

"This book is a study of the doctrine of the ministry as found in the writings of Luther, Melanchthon, and the Lutheran Confessions. The author specifically discusses the relationship between the spiritual office and the universal priesthood of believers as well as the question of ordination"--.