The Reforming Role of Religious Communities in the History of Western Christianity

Authors

Carl Volz, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

Publication Date

11-1-1968

Document Type

Article

Keywords

monks, christianity, monasticism, communal communities, reforming, benedict, augustine, clergy, monasteries, monk

Submission Type

Bible Study; Lecture; Sermon Prep

Abstract

Reformed Christians have traditionally been suspicious of, if not viscerally opposed to, one ancient institution of Christianity - monasticism. Ever since the upheavals of the 16th century most non-Roman Catholics in the West have been content to view the monks as being psychological eccentrics at best, or the spiritual heirs of Pelagius at worst. It is the purpose of this essay to indicate the vital role monasticism played in the continuing reform of Christianity, and to encourage Lutheran Christians, who stand in a similar reforming tradition, to approach the concept of communal religious life with understanding if not with sympathetic support.

Disciplines

History of Christianity

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

Matthew 19:18-22; Luke 9:23; Matthew 19:12; 1 John 2:15;

Submission Cost

Free

Submission Audience

Laity; Ministers; Scholars

Recommended Citation

Volz, Carl (1968) "The Reforming Role of Religious Communities in the History of Western Christianity," Concordia Theological Monthly: Vol. 39, Article 67.
Available at: https://scholar.csl.edu/ctm/vol39/iss1/67