Just and Sinner Podcast

Correcting Misrepresentations of the Reformation and Lutheran History

Jan 23, 2026
This discussion tackles common misconceptions surrounding the Reformation and its historical narratives. The host critically examines 20th-century scholarly claims linking Protestantism to modern issues. He emphasizes the continuity of Lutheran ethical teachings and sacramental theology. Key points include Luther's views on grace, the interplay of nature and divine gifts, and a critique of the idea that the Reformation caused a split between nature and grace. The conversation sheds light on the richer, more nuanced understanding of the Reformation's impact on theology and society.
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INSIGHT

Post‑Reformation Ethics Persisted

  • Many claims that Protestantism discarded medieval moral theology are plainly false when you read post-Reformation works.
  • Lutherans and other Protestants produced numerous virtue treatises and Aristotelian commentaries after the Reformation.
INSIGHT

Philosophical Continuity Across Confessions

  • Lutheran orthodox writers like Johann Gerhard affirm classical Thomistic ideas such as God as ipsum esse.
  • There is strong philosophical continuity across Roman Catholic and Lutheran scholasticism in the 17th century.
INSIGHT

Primary And Secondary Causality Explained

  • Classical theology explains actions by primary (God) and secondary (creatures) causality rather than competing percentages.
  • Lutheran orthodoxy consistently taught divine concurrence and non‑competitive cooperation of wills.
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