56%
Confidence
Belief overview
Theology of the cross
God reveals himself decisively in weakness, suffering, and the cross of Christ.
2
Supportive
0
Contrary
0
Neutral
What it is: The theology of the cross is an important Lutheran formulation according to which God reveals himself decisively in the cross of Christ and not primarily in human claims to glory.
How the religion understands it: The cross reveals both human sin and the grace of God. This approach also orients Lutheran spirituality toward humility, repentance, and trust in the divine promise.
Context: The contrast between theology of the cross and theology of glory is a landmark in Luther's early reflection.
Documentary evidence
Supportive
1 Corinthians 1:18-25
The word of the cross as the power and wisdom of God.
Reference: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25.
Content: Paul shows the paradox of the cross before human wisdom.
Use in debate: It is an important text for the Lutheran theology of the cross.
Heidelberg Disputation (1518)
Luther's early theses on cross and glory.
Reference: Heidelberg Disputation, 1518.
Content: The text formulates a marked contrast between theology of the cross and theology of glory.
Use in debate: It is an important source for understanding Luther's early theology.