Vocation: The Theology of the Christian Life (Symposium‪)‬

The Reformation contributed three major teachings that would characterize Protestantism in all of its diversity: (1) justification by faith, (2) the authority of Scripture, and (3) the doctrine of vocation. The first two still have currency, despite recent criticisms. However, the concept of vocation has been gradually lost. First, it was turned into a "work ethic"; then it turned into a pious attitude empty of specific content; then it was reduced to just another synonym for "a job." Yet, in the Reformation, vocation was nothing less than the doctrine of the Christian life. Vocation was the locus for other important teachings, such as the priesthood of all believers, good works, and sanctification. It was not merely a theoretical teaching; rather, as taught in the early Reformation catechisms and sermons, the doctrine of vocation gave practical guidance to Christians in their marriages, parenthood, economic activity, and citizenship.