History of Christianity Commons^™

Melanchthon The Confessor, Arthur Carl Piepkorn

Concordia Theological Monthly

By definition, a confessor is "one who confesses." Specifically and strictly, a confessor is an ordained clergymen who hears confessions and is authorized to grant absolution. Or he is one who professes or gives heroic evidence of his faith in Christ, a saint who suffers persecution for his faith without undergoing martyrdom in the process.

Melanchthon As Educator And Humanist, Carl S. Meyer

Concordia Theological Monthly

Melanchthon, it seems, lacked a sense of humor. Tactful, careful, intent on weighing the pros and cons of each question, working all day even on Sunday, grubbing and grinding, this was Melanchthon according to Martin Luther, who had ample opportunity to observe his friend and colleague.

Melanchthon The Churchman, Gilbert A. Thiele

Concordia Theological Monthly

In presenting Melanchthon as churchman we try to erect a little monument to him as a man of and for the church. To assist us in bringing some order into a large mass of fact and interpretation which has been accumulating over four centuries, we have thought it good to distribute our tribute over several areas.

Melanchthon The Theologian, Robert D. Preus

Concordia Theological Monthly

It would seem impossible that the theme "Melanchthon the Theologian," which is as comprehensive as it is indefinite, could be discussed satisfactorily in any brief presentation. The actual purpose and scope of this study is, however, narrower than the rather general theme might indicate. I propose to consider Melanchthon’s contributions to that discipline which is now known as dogmatics, to trace the impact of his systematic bent upon Lutheran theology, to delineate some of his main ideas on theology, and thus to assess him as a theologian.

Luther And Melanchthon, Erwin L. Lueker

Concordia Theological Monthly

Luther speaks directly to us in German language; Melanchthon in Latin. This may have some significance whether or not we agree with Schiller that the "soul of a people is in its language."

"Melanchthon, Christ's Witness" (Editorial Comment), George W. Hoyer

Concordia Theological Monthly

This was the theme of a chapel address with which Prof. Henry W. Reimann introduced the observance at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, on April 19-21, of the quadricentennial of Melanchthon’s death. This issue presents three short papers read at this occasion; others are scheduled for later issues. The papers were not written for publication and are presented substantially as read, along with such documentation as had been added to the papers. Some of the leading thoughts of Professor Reimann's address may fittingly introduce this little symposium.

The Messiah Of The Old Testament Jew, Eugene Kauffeld

Bachelor of Divinity

The question remains, if Simeon had such a faith, and the Greek or the New Testament indicates he did, where did he get such a clear picture of Christ, and God's plan of salvation? The main source of his faith was found in the Old Testament, sacred writings considered by the faithful Jews of his time to be the Scriptures wherein God had revealed His salvation to men. He had searched and found, he had thirsted for the water of life; and he had found the eternal fountain of God's mercy and grace to a sinful and fallen mankind.

Scripture And Tradition In The Council Of Trent, Richard Baepler

Concordia Theological Monthly

This study deals with the historical circumstances surrounding the Roman Catholic doctrinal decision at the Council of Trent regarding the authority of Scripture and tradition. By examining this decision in the light of events which led to its formulation as well as in the light of its subsequent fate, we shall be introduced to an issue which has become very much alive in both Roman Catholic and Protestant thought.

The Reformation Movement In Estonia, Heino Olavi Kadai

Bachelor of Divinity

It is hoped that the thesis at hand is not welcomed only because it adds to the completeness of Reformation research in the English language. The study of the Reformation movement in Estonia will help to demonstrate the fact that the Great Reformation, as Lutherans like to think of the Lutheran Reformation, spread in many different ways and moved by diverse roads, not always following the same pattern in every territory. As the study will bear out, the Reformation movement in Estonia carried many characteristics of its own that differ greatly from the development of the Reformation in Germany, Sweden, …

Influences That Contributed To The Theology Of Samuel S Schmucker, Karl Koch

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

Samuel Simon Schmucker was a leading figure of the Lutheran Church in America during the first half of the nineteenth century. He was born February 28, 1799, and died on July 26, 1873. His main labor was as a professor at Gettysburg seminary, where he served from 1826 until his retirement in 1864. By his labors and leadership in the General Synod he advanced many doctrinal formulations that had been considered foreign to Lutheranism and which were severely attacked during his later years. It is the purpose of this paper to investigate the possible causes and influences that led to …

H. Emil Brunner - 1914-1928, The Critical Period Of His Theological Developments And Writings, Heino Kadai

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

The study at hand is historical in nature. No attempt has been made to evaluate Brunner’s thinking from a theological and confessional point of view. Its scope is limited to 1914 and 1928. An introduction to what is here called the Critical Period is necessary, but Brunner’s theological development and works published after 1928 fall outside of the limits of the study.

The Influence Of The Thirty Years War On The German Lutheran Hymnists Of That Perod, John Koch

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

The writer will endeavour to show by the presentation of pertinent material that it seems highly probable that the Thirty Years War had a definite influence on the German Lutheran hymnists in the themes which they stressed.

The Spanish Missions Of Florida, New Mexico, And California - 1559-1784, Robert Randoy

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

The Spanish Missions of Florida, New Mexico, and California - 1559-1784

The Doctrine Of Justification And Reconciliation In The Theology Of Karl Barth, Robert D. Preus

Concordia Theological Monthly

The doctrine of reconciliation is among the last subjects Barth has spoken on. This doctrine is presented in Vol. IV of his Church Dogmatics and embraces three parts. In Barth's dogmatics reconciliation includes not only the doctrine of the atonement and justification but also the work and person of Christ and the application of salvation (conversion and sanctification).

The Altpreussische Union. Its Status And Significance Today With Special Reference To The Ecumenical Movement, Matthias Schulz Jr., Siegfried J. Lehmann

Concordia Theological Monthly

The Altpreussische Union of 1817 is not only a past event of historical interest, but it also deserves to be recognized as a significant factor in its effect on the contemporary scene. It continues to be effective in the church organization known as the EKU (Evangelische Kirche der Union), which stems from this union and through it exerts a definite influence on the life of the church in Germany. Moreover, it continues to be even more effective by reason of the principles on which it was based and which by no means apply only to Germany.

Why The Reformation Occurred In Germany, Gerhard Ritter

Concordia Theological Monthly

At the end of the Middle Ages, the moral prestige of the old papal church was severely shaken in all the countries of Europe. Open criticism of its moral shortcomings and its organizational defects had been going on for centuries. To the diverse splinter movements of heretical sects (which were never wholly suppressed) had been recently added the great reform movements of the Wyclifites and the Hussites. But even they had brought about no lasting and widespread upheaval. Ultimately the old hierarchy had always prevailed. Why then did the Germans, a people slow to be aroused, fond of order, and …

The Elizabethan Settlement And The English Church., Charles F. Mullett

Concordia Theological Monthly

In surveying the Elizabethan Settlement and the Church of England one can do no better than introduce his remarks with a flash of insight from the Rev. Laurence Sterne. According to "my Uncle Toby" in Tristram Shandy, everything in this world has wit in it, and instruction too, if we can but find it out. That the Elizabethan Settlement illustrates this wisdom may be established by two "texts" from our own country.

The Word Of The Lord Grew: The Historical Character Of The New Testament Word, Martin H. Franzmann

Concordia Theological Monthly

The Word of the Lord grew" -three times in the Book of Acts Luke uses this sentence to sum up a period of the history of the first church (Acts 6:7; 12:24; 19:20). These words are a telling expression of the Biblical conception of the divine Word. Our Lord Himself compared the Word to a seed that is sown and sprouts and grows: 'The seed is the Word of God" (Luke 8:11). The Word of the Lord is a power and is active; it "prevails mightily," as Luke puts it in one of the passages just referred to (Acts 19:20). …

A Christian Answer To Marcion Of Pontus By Tertullian And Irenaeus, Carl Willard Beuschlein

Bachelor of Divinity

The scope of the Church’s answer covers the whole field of theological thought. But because there are no existing sources of Marcion’s theology, except those contained in the answers of Christian writers, and, because even these writers have been selective, the scope of this study was necessarily limited to the basic problems of God, Scriptures, Christology, and Eschatology. The thesis of this study was that the Church, through Tertullian and Irenaeus, had answered Marcion’s attack thoroughly and decisively for the edification of the Church of Christ. For the purpose or proving this thesis, this study presents a brief outline of …

A Historical And Political Study Of Antipater, The Idumean, Who Established A Political Dynasty In Palestine, Neil R. Schmidt

Bachelor of Divinity

Historically, there is little doubt that Antipater was a political giant. Even the limited account or his life reveals the shrewdness and native talents of this Idumean. Yet he was and is neglected. Perhaps the reason rests in the shortness or his actual reign as ruler. Perhaps he is forgotten due to the fact that he was never actually crowned as king. But the purpose of this paper was not to answer the "why,” but rather to establish the historical fact that Antipater was truly an important figure in the history between the testaments, and that he really did influence …

Holy Ordination And The Call In The First Hundred Years Of Lutheranism And In The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod, Walter C. Kalbhen

Bachelor of Divinity

This thesis is primarily a historical, not a systematic study. The contents will attempt to give basic concepts and beliefs of the doctrines and practices as they have appeared in the Lutheran Church from the time of the Reformation.

Tyndale's Dependance On Luther, Richard Bode

Bachelor of Divinity

The purpose of this investigation is to determine to what extent William Tyndale, the translator of the Bible into the English tongue, was dependent upon Martin Luther. No attempt shall be made to compare the historical significance of the two men, for there can be no doubt that the labors of Luther made a much greater impact and had a much more far-reaching effect than those of Tyndale.

The Case Of Athanasius Against Arius, Samuel Labuchli

Concordia Theological Monthly

Every age must restate the events of history because in every age these events appear in a specific focus. The contemporary theological discussion concerning ontological and existential knowledge, the essence of Biblical faith, and the meaning of language in Christian theology make the controversy of the fourth century a highly modern issue. Indeed, the 20th century has to state its Christological position afresh. It cannot simply repeat the fathers between Nicaea and Constantinople. Yet it can learn a great deal from these fathers by seeking to understand, sine ira et studio, the case of Athanasius versus Arius.

The Organization Of The Ministry In The First Century Of The Church, Charles Russell Whittington

Bachelor of Divinity

In order that the Church might know the possibilities, it is good to delve into the past and examine the methods of the Church which have been used through the centuries. A critical examination of the various organizations or the Church in history will result in ideas which may bear fruit in application to the situation of the Church in the modern world.

It is with a view to initiating such a study that I offer this investigation of the organization of the ministry in the New Testament and in the earliest of the Church Fathers. Unfortunately, the period allowed …

The Mystery Religions And Christianity In The Roman Empire Of The First Three Centuries A. D., John B. Koch

Bachelor of Divinity

The writer will endeavour to show by the presentation of pertinent material that it does seem probable that the Mystery religions did affect certain areas of Christian practice, but that in the final analysts there is insufficient evidence to prove this effect in any given area with any great degree of certainty.

St. Augutine--Sacrifice In Eucharist And Life, John Meether

Bachelor of Divinity

The amount of material produced by Augustine is very great, and an examination of all of it is beyond the scope of this work. The polemical writings will not be considered at all. Of the other works, the “City of God” will be the basic work used in the thesis with considerable dependence upon his sermons and commentary on the Psalms. Other nonpolemical writings were used where they were relevant to the thesis.

The Conflict Between Walther And Lohe In The Area Of Ecclesiology, William J. Schmedler

Bachelor of Divinity

This thesis is limited to the controversy that existed between Walther and Loehe and thus excludes, except where necessary, any discussion of the controversies which either of these men had with other theologians.

In the same manner a complete discussion of the ecclesiology of either of the participants could not be given. Such a task, for either Walther or Loehe, would constitute a complete study in its own right. This study merely attempts to summarize the ecclesiological thinking of both men to give the reader the necessary information for an understanding of the controversy.

Athanasius' Doctrine; Of The Incarnation In Light Of Its Historical Context As Reflected In De Incarnatione, Carl Volz

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

It is the author’s hope that this study will not only serve to remind the reader that Arianism is latent in the Church at all times, but will also serve to emphasize the Pauline and Athanasian stress of Christus in nobis. Although the Western Church has grown with the Pauline doctrine of forensic salvation, particularly since the time of Luther, the Athanasian conceptions of the Incarnation are just as purely Pauline, Christ becoming man in order to draw men to God. The fact that a justification fidei is foreign to his way of thinking ought in no way detract from …

Fifteen Fifty-Nine Anno Domini, Carl S. Meyer

Concordia Theological Monthly

The confluence of significant events in 1559 A. D. makes that year a notable one in church history. From time to time a half dozen or a baker's dozen of occurrences within the 12-month span alloted by the calendar to a single year may loom up so large that they are regarded as particularly significant and make the year a memorable one in the annals of mankind. Such was the year 1559.

The Pope's Council, Lewis W. Spitz

Concordia Theological Monthly

Pope John XXIII is calling an ecumenical council-a wise move on his part. Ecumenicity is popular. People are talking about it. The pope's council will claim its share of the conversation. Rome never misses a chance for favorable publicity. In this case it is spiced with the prospect of others, besides Roman Catholics, being invited. Who will it be? No matter, the pope's council will not, and cannot, be a free council, for at best the erring children of the non-Roman churches can be invited to return to the bosom of the mother church.