Paradoxes of Lutheranism
- Lutherans tend to be highly conscious of sin, without falling into moralism.
- Lutherans treasure theology and have a rich intellectual tradition, while emphasizing the limits of speculative reason.
- Lutherans are skeptical of mystical emotionalism, but they cultivate an intense inner piety and a worship centered in in effacable mysteries.
- The Christian, according to Luther, is simul justus et peccator -- at the same time righteous and sinner.
- The Christian is totally free, yet a slave -- in Christian service -- to everyone.
