Wilhelm Loehe, Preaching and the Lord's Prayer

Abstract

This article explores the preaching of Wilhelm Loehe via a theological and rhetorical analysis of the opening sermon to his series on the Lord’s Prayer. Loehe’s preaching is located within the broader history of preaching, specifically within the Lutheran catechetical heritage. Loehe faithfully embodies this tradition not merely by conveying information and moralizing but by proclaiming law and Gospel within his catechesis. He manifests in his preaching some of his distinctive ecclesial emphases, such as the creative holding together of confessional orthodoxy and pietistic devotion. Elements of Loehe’s rhetoric are highlighted, including his lively use of imagery. Loehe’s preaching provides a rich resource for the ongoing homiletical task today.