Luther alphabet - letter G

Photo: photocase/arndTraditionally, the theology of the Reformation with its theology of the cross distances itself from the “theologia gloriae”, the scholastic and speculative “theology of glory”. Martin Luther, who coined the term “theologia crucis”, “theology of the cross”, placed Jesus' death on the cross in the centre of both theology and faithful life. Man's realisation of sinfulness and Christ's redemptive deed have special significance.

In contrast, Protestantism claims that the over-emphasis of “God's glory” and his creation (including the church) pushes the power of sin and the world's need for redemption into the background. Triumphalism instead of honest realisation of sinfulness – this would be a poor trade. The central importance of the cross has gained much importance, not only in Protestant theology, but also in the everyday religious practice of Protestants. This can not be said about a theology of glory.