Luther is often cited as agreeing with the Lordship gospel, although it is true for most of his life, we see that his earlier writings held a position closer to Free Grace theology.
Thus you see how rich a Christian is, that is, one who has been baptized! Even if he would, he could not lose his salvation, however much he sinned, unless he refused to believe. For no sin can condemn him save unbelief alone. (The Babylonian Captivity)
Amsdorf also said contrary to Major (who taught a kind of Lordship like view):
“All those who teach and write that good works are necessary for salvation are going directly against Luther, yes, directly against themselves."
Now, Luther in his quote does mention baptismal regeneration, however Luther's system of baptismal regeneration is not the same as commonly held by many groups today, for Luther Baptism regenerates because God gives faith during Baptism to infants, he viewed it as a way to "preach the gospel" to infants. Yet, it is not a biblical view, the bible teaches that the gospel is received through "hearing" (Romans 10:17) and never mentions baptism giving faith to infants.
Luther's baptismal theology is inconsistent with his doctrine of faith alone, however we see that he did not believe that good works "prove" salvation nor keep salvation in his early ministry.
No comments:
Post a Comment