Der Erbsundenstreit (1559-1580)

The essence of man, the substance of man, and the likeness to God are all affected by original sin, which is an external accident that leaves man with the ability to participate in his own justification. This question was at the center of the original sin dispute between Matthias Flacius Illyricus and Victorin Strigel in the aftermath of the Weimar disputation of 1560.

Format: Hardback
Length: 746 pages
Publication date: 21 December 2021
Publisher: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht GmbH & Co KG

The concept of "original sin" has been a subject of intense debate and discussion within the Christian faith. It revolves around the belief that humans are born with a sin nature that separates them from God and leads to a state of spiritual depravity. While some argue that original sin affects the essence of man, the substance of man, and ultimately destroys their likeness to God, others contend that it remains something external, an accident that leaves man with the ability to participate in his own justification.

The debate over original sin dates back to the early Christian church and has continued to be a topic of discussion among theologians throughout history. One of the most prominent figures in the debate was Matthias Flacius Illyricus, a Lutheran theologian who lived in the 16th century. In his work, "Clavis scripturae," Flacius argued that humans are born with a sin nature that is passed down from generation to generation. He believed that this sin nature leads to a state of spiritual depravity and that humans are unable to save themselves by their own efforts.

On the other hand, Victorin Strigel, another Lutheran theologian, argued that original sin is not a fundamental aspect of human nature. He believed that humans are capable of choosing to follow God and that they can be saved through their faith in Jesus Christ. Strigel argued that while humans are born with a sin nature, it does not necessarily lead to spiritual depravity. He believed that humans can choose to reject their sin nature and follow God's will.

The debate over original sin continued to intensify in the 17th century, particularly in the Lutheran communities of Germany and Austria. Many theologians were divided over the issue, and numerous pamphlets and debates were published. In some cases, the debate even led to violent clashes between opposing factions.

Even the formula of concord, which was agreed upon by the Lutheran churches in 1577, was unable to completely settle the dispute. Some communities, particularly in Austria, continued to cling to Flacius's radical doctrine of original sin for a longer period of time.

Despite the ongoing debate, many Christians believe that original sin is a fundamental aspect of human nature and that it affects the essence of man, the substance of man, and ultimately destroys their likeness to God. They argue that without the forgiveness of Jesus Christ, humans cannot be saved from their sin and that they need to rely on God's grace and mercy to be saved.

On the other hand, some Christians believe that original sin is not a fundamental aspect of human nature and that it can be overcome through faith in Jesus Christ and personal repentance. They argue that humans are capable of choosing to follow God's will and that they can be saved by their own efforts.

In conclusion, the concept of "original sin" has been a subject of intense debate and discussion within the Christian faith. While some argue that it affects the essence of man, the substance of man, and ultimately destroys their likeness to God, others contend that it remains something external, an accident that leaves man with the ability to participate in his own justification. The debate over original sin is likely to continue to be a topic of discussion among theologians and Christians for many years to come.

Dimension: 247 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783525560532