Osiandrian controversy

The Osiandrian controversy was a controversy amongst the Lutherans, originated in around 1550 by Andreas Osiander, a German theologian.[1][2] He asserted that it was only through the righteousness of Christ with respect to the divine nature (entirely excluding the righteousness of Christ with respect to the human nature) that mankind could obtain justification, and that men became partakers of Christ's divine righteousness through faith.[2] Osiander thought the prevailing current in his area gave an overemphasis on forensic justification--he saw Christ as a physician who heals instead of as a judge who declares one righteous. He taught that God does not declare the sinner just, but makes him just. Osiander held that justification does not impute Christ's obedience and righteousness to the sinner, but instead the indwelling of Christ causes justification.[3]

  1. ^ Fahlbusch, Erwin (1999). The Encyclopedia of Christianity. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing. p. 334. ISBN 978-90-04-11695-5. Retrieved 10 September 2012.
  2. ^ a b Eden, Robert (1845). The Churchman's Theological Dictionary. John W. Parker. p. 263. Retrieved 10 September 2012.
  3. ^ Osiandrian Controversy in the Christian Cyclopedia