The Christian doctrine of justification is of immense interest to historians
and theologians, and continues to be of major importance in modern
ecumenical discussions. The present work appeared in its first edition in
1986, and rapidly became the leading reference work on the subject. Its
many acclaimed features include a detailed assessment of the semantic
background of the concept in the ancient Near East, a thorough examination
of the doctrine of the medieval period, and an especially careful
analysis of its development during the critical years of the sixteenth
century. The third edition thoroughly updates the work, adding new
material where necessary, and responding to the latest developments in
scholarly literature. It will be an essential resource for all concerned with
the development of Christian doctrine, the history of the Reformation
debates on the identity of Christianity, and modern discussions between
Protestants and Roman Catholics over the nature of salvation.