Union with Christ: The New Finnish Interpretation of Luther
Overview
This important book introduces the English-speaking world to the new Finnish interpretation of the theology of Martin Luther, initiated by the writings of Tuomo Mannermaa of Helsinki University. At the heart of the Finnish breakthrough in Luther research lies the theme of salvation. Luther found his answer to the mystery of salvation in the justifying work of Christ received through faith alone. But Protestant theology has never enjoyed a consensus on how to interpret the Reformation doctrine of justification by faith. In opposition to the traditional forensic understanding of justification, Mannermaa argues that for Luther, “Christ is really present in faith itself.” Mannermaa’s interpretation of Luther’s view of justification is thus more ontological and mystical than ethical and juridical. As such, his work challenges a century of scholarly opinion concerning a foundational doctrine of Protestant theology.
Top Highlights
“ecumenical dialogue between the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and the Russian Orthodox Church” (Page 1)
“Luther’s idea of the presence of Christ in faith could form a basis for the Lutheran-Orthodox dialogue” (Page 2)
“According to this text, God, in the very fullness of his essence, is present in the believer” (Page 27)
“Faith means participation in the being and thus in the properties of God” (Page 16)
- Title: Union with Christ: The New Finnish Interpretation of Luther
- Authors: Carl Braaten, Robert W. Jenson
- Publisher: Eerdmans
- Print Publication Date: 1998
- Logos Release Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
- Subjects: Luther, Martin, 1483-1546; Justification › History of doctrines--16th century; Lutheran Church › Relations--Orthodox Eastern Church; Orthodox Eastern Church › Relations--Lutheran Church; Theology, doctrinal › Finland; Deification (Christianity)
- ISBNs: 9780802844422, 0802844421
- Resource ID: LLS:NNCHRSTNTRPLTHR
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2022-09-30T01:52:12Z