Description
Book SynopsisSeeking to understand the doctrine of justification by way of biblical hermeneutics, this book uncovers the differences between Martin Luther and the Council of Trent that set them on a collision course for conflict, and the church toward what has arguably been its most significant division in the West.
As Catholics and Lutherans continue to engage in dialogue about their shared faith and differing confessions, the need remains for a discerning study of the ways in which the Bible functioned in the Reformation's central theological clash: the understanding and import of the doctrine of justification. Peter Folan's incisive analysis in this volume fulfills that need. Through a careful reading of the debate's most significant texts, he shows both how Martin Luther and the Council of Trent relied upon scripture to arrive at their respective formulations of the doctrine and how such seemingly divergent conclusions about the human person's salvation in Christ could be ground
Trade Review
“A book like this is very rare and very precious, for its content, for its unique method, and for its contribution not only to academic debates about ecumenical associations but also in terms of nurturing real-life friendships across the denominational divides.” —Kirsi Stjerna, author of Lutheran Theology
"The ecumenical dialogue needs a thorough study of the ways the Bible was read in the Reformer's central theological debate on justification, which is precisely what this book offers." —Heythrop Journal
"Martin Luther and the Council of Trent: The Battle Over Scripture and the Doctrine of Justification is a masterful exploration of how scriptural hermeneutics and citations create both doctrinal consensus and doctrinal disagreement." —Reading Religion
* Reading Religion *
Table of ContentsList of Tables
Acknowledgements
Abbreviations
Introduction
1. Mapping the Battlefield: Highlights of the Genesis and the Pre-Sixteenth Century
Development of the Doctrine of Justification
2. Stepping on To the Field of Battle: Luther on Justification in 1520
3. Fortifying a Position: Luther on Justification in 1531
4. Squaring Off Against an Unnamed but not Unknown Opponent: The Council of Trent on Justification
5. The Tactics of the Battle: An Analysis of the Biblical Texts and Hermeneutics Operative in Luther and Trent
Epilogue
Works Cited
Index
