Union With Christ: The New Finnish Interpretation of Luther

FROM THE PUBLISHER

This 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.

FROM THE CRITICS

Theology Today

The editors are to be congratulated for offering for the first time in English a handy synopsis of current Finnish scholarship on Luther by its leading proponents, whose theories have attracted considerable attention in recent times.

Word & World

This book is valuable for the introduction of English-speaking Lutherans to the world of Finnish Luther interpretation....The reflective pastor will be able to recognize new angles for preaching and teaching that run counter to traditional conceptions. The Finns deserve praise for their efforts to provide a new entry point into the magnificent corpus of Luther's work.

Reformation & Revival