Description
Book SynopsisChallenging the widespread classification of evangelical theologian Balthasar Hubmaier (1480-1528) as a Schleitheim-adhering Anabaptist, this book argues that Hubmaier should instead be understood as a bridge between the Radical and Magisterial branches of the Reformation. Paramount among this book''s new discoveries is the overarching three-tiered structure of Hubmaier''s theological system, consisting of a libertarian anthropology, sacramental theology, and ecclesiology. While recent studies have demonstrated the favorable reception of Bernard of Clairvaux by Luther and Calvin, this book reveals that Bernard also exerted a profound impact upon Hubmaier''s anthropology. Consequently, Hubmaier crafted highly philosophically realist doctrines of believers'' baptism and the Eucharist as grace-imparting sacraments instead of ordinances without salvific power. In Hubmaier''s baptism, God not only regenerated neophytes, but also predestined them to final salvation. By partaking of the Eucha
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Preface Chapter 2 1. Reformation Taxonomies and Sacramental Theology Chapter 3 2. The Literary Dependence of Balthasar Hubmaier Upon Bernard of Clairvaux Chapter 4 3. Framing a New Theological Pilgrimage of Balthasar Hubmaier Chapter 5 4. Hubmaier's Doctrine of the Sacrament of Believers' Baptism Chapter 6 5. Hubmaier's Doctrine of the Sacrament of the Eucharist Chapter 7 6. The Free State Ecclesiology of Hubmaier Chapter 8 Conclusion: A Magisterial Radical Sacramentalist Chapter 9 Bibliography Chapter 10 Index of Scripture References Chapter 11 Subject Index Chapter 12 About the Author
