The Cross and True Christian Power

In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony dive deep into Martin Luther's contrasting theological concepts: the Theology of Glory and the Theology of the Cross. Beginning with a reflection on how the Theology of Glory prioritizes human strength, reason, and achievement, they explore how this perspective can mislead Christians into seeking God through displays of power and visible success. Instead, they emphasize that Luther's Theology of the Cross reveals God's power most profoundly in weakness, suffering, and humility.

The conversation highlights how the Theology of Glory often leads to arrogance, misplaced priorities, and a misunderstanding of God's nature and work in the world. Drawing from Scripture, the hosts demonstrate how the Gospel flips the world's values upside down, showing that true Christian power lies in self-sacrifice, service, and dependence on Christ. They also discuss contemporary examples of how the Theology of Glory manifests in modern Christian movements, including megachurch culture, prosperity theology, and even personal pride within small church leadership.

Jesse and Tony challenge listeners to examine their own lives and ministries in light of the Theology of the Cross. They encourage believers to adopt an attitude of humility, servanthood, and dependence on God's grace, rather than striving for worldly success or recognition. This episode is a timely reminder that the Christian life is not about glory as the world defines it, but about finding strength in weakness and victory in the cross of Christ.

Key Points:

1. Theology of Glory vs. Theology of the Cross: Luther's framework contrasts human-centered religion, which seeks God in power and success, with the Gospel's revelation of God through weakness and suffering.
2. Modern Examples of the Theology of Glory: Prosperity theology, megachurch culture, and some expressions of Christian nationalism illustrate how this mindset persists today.
3. The Power of Humility and Weakness: The Theology of the Cross calls Christians to embrace servanthood and suffering as reflections of Christ's work on the cross.
4. Scriptural Foundations: The hosts reference key Scriptures, such as Philippians 2 and Luke 10, to show how God's kingdom operates differently from human expectations.
5. Practical Applications: Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own lives and avoid the pitfalls of pride and self-reliance, instead embracing a Christ-centered approach to faith and ministry.

Questions for Reflection:

1. How does the Theology of Glory manifest in your own life or church context?
2. In what ways does the Theology of the Cross challenge your understanding of power and success?
3. How can you cultivate humility and servanthood in your daily walk with Christ?
4. Are there areas in your life where you tend to rely on human wisdom or strength instead of God's grace?
5. How does understanding God's power in weakness bring comfort and transformation to your faith?

Citations:

John Calvin, Commentary on the Gospel According to John, trans. William Pringle, vol. 1 (Bellingham: Logos Bible Software, 2010), 1:329–330.