As a defining theologian of the 16th century, Matthias Flacius Illyricus left his mark on hermeneutics and Lutheran church history that is evident still today. Life Under The Cross focuses on his defense of Martin Luther's theology during a time of numerous challenges and emphasizes the work of Christ, the means of grace, and Luther's basic teachings. The author, Wade Johnson, offers a balanced view of Flacius and the controversies after Luther's death that led to the Formula of Concord.