The Una Sancta in Luther's Theology

Authors

F. E. Mayer, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

Publication Date

11-1-1947

Document Type

Article

Keywords

luther, una sancta, theology, unbelievers, congregation, doctrine, grace, christendom

Submission Type

Bible Study; Lecture; Sermon Prep

Abstract

Luther's concept of the Una Sancta was first and last soteriological; not sociological, not statistical, not organizational, not eschatological. Luther's emphasis on soteriology in his definition of the Church can be understood only in the light of his theological principle. Scholastic theology had not satisfied him. Its Aristotelian method had failed to bring assurance of peace to his heart, and its autosoteric principles had been unable to quiet his conscience. The Apostle's message: "The sinner is justified by faith alone," changed Luther's theology both as to method and to content.

Disciplines

Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion

Scripture References in this Resource (separated by semi-colons)

Psalm 45:11; Galatians 5:19;

Submission Cost

Free

Submission Audience

Laity; Ministers; Scholars

Recommended Citation

Mayer, F. E. (1947) "The Una Sancta in Luther's Theology," Concordia Theological Monthly: Vol. 18, Article 67.
Available at: https://scholar.csl.edu/ctm/vol18/iss1/67