THE THEOLOGY OF THE CROSS, THE THEOLOGY OF GLORY, THE LAW

AND GOSPEL

Introduction3

Discussion3

1.Theology of the Cross4

2.Theology of Glory4

3.Difference between the Theology of Cross and Theology of Glory5

4.The Distinction of Law and Gospel in the Light of Luther's Theology7

5.Establishment of the Connection between the Law and Gospel and the Theology of Cross and Glory9

6.Doctrine of Justification and its Relation to the Theology of the Cross and Theology of Glory11

Conclusion12

The Theology of the Cross, the Theology of Glory, the Law and Gospel

Thesis Statement

The theology of the cross and the theology of glory are concepts in parallel with the distinction of law and gospel.

Introduction

The theology of the cross and the theology of glory are two different and dominant theological systems that have existed and have been emphasized by various theologians. The great leader of the Protestant Reformation, Martin Luther's contribution in providing an understanding of the two theologies and the distinction between the two is a significant one. It is essential for the study, therefore, to look at the differences between the two theologies that cannot be mixed as it is a vital way to distinguish law trying to glance into the gospel. This research paper thus analyzes theologies of the cross and glory and assesses how these concepts are in parallel with the distinction of the other important dichotomy i.e. the law and the gospel. The distinction of the theology of the cross with glory offers a significant meaning to detect law attempting to look back into the gospel.

Discussion

The two basic perspectives of faith have been instrumental in the understanding of various concepts related to faith, our existence in this world and most importantly in defining our actions and in forming our opinions about various religious and spiritual concepts such as salvation, death and resurrection. A brief account of the two theologies can help in ascertaining the differences that exist in the way each defines various concepts.

Theology of the Cross

Theology of the Cross focuses on trust to be put on discipleship and the faith in joining Christ in his suffering. Martin Luther, a German theologian coined the term theologia crucis or theology of the cross, which refers to the belief that the only source of spiritual knowledge in relation to the understanding that is the consequence of the Holy Spirit indwelling at conversion is the cross. Cross theology address the death and suffering and perceive them as a means to achieve God's glory. This theology believes that ways of God are hidden and paradoxical to the man's reason; favor of God is evident in Jesus, especially in His resurrection, death and suffering; and Jesus is the only source that can please God. For humans to achieve success it is essential that they follow Christ and his teachings while success is what God gives to the people with little that humans can do in its achievement. It is the trust that one puts on God that grants him success in his ...