ELCA Publications

The Journal of Lutheran Ethics (JLE) is a free, monthly, ecclesial online publication living out the Lutheran tradition of addressing social issues theologically, using the resources of historical, theological and ethical tradition, biblical interpretation and social sciences.

JLE serves as a meeting place for scholars and professors, seminary and university students, rostered ministers, theologically informed laypeople, and advocates and activists to engage in discourse about the academic study of Christianity and the contemporary life of the church.

JLE is published by the Theological Discernment Team in the Office of the Presiding Bishop. It operates out of the ELCA’s confessional commitments and seeks to enhance this church’s life and mission in society by offering a forum for faithful people to clarify, deepen and enliven Lutheran ethics. JLE embraces exploration of foundational questions and current social issues, personal and public dimensions of the moral life, domestic and global issues, and individual and corporate responsibilities. It examines biblical, theological and historical foundations and orientations for the church’s social witness and its members’ vocations, and it invites people from other religious and secular traditions to join the discussion.