In this first of three volumes addressing Luther's outlaw God, Steven D. Paulson considers the two "monsters" of theology, as Luther calls them: evil and predestination. He explores how these produce fear of God but can also become the great and only comforts of conscience when a preacher arrives.

Volume 1: In this first of three volumes addressing Luther's outlaw God, Steven D. Paulson considers the two "monsters" of theology, as Luther calls them: evil and predestination. He explores how these produce fear of God but can also become the great and only comforts of conscience when a preacher arrives. Paulson argues that the distinction between God naked/clothed or unpreached/preached radiates out in all directions for Luther's theology. Specifically, Paulson takes up the central question: What is God's relation to the law? Luther's answers will change the way you preach.