Abstract

ABSTRACT

The Doctrine of Justification: A Biblical and Historical Analysis of the Doctrine and its Ecumenical Reception by Lutherans and Catholics in their Joint Declaration of 1999

Brian Cordeiro


The doctrine of justification is a central Christian doctrine. In the sixteenth century, justification was at the core of major dispute, which eventually resulted in the Reformation movement and the schism within the Catholic Church. Lutherans and Roman Catholics issued mutual condemnations related to the doctrine of justification. These events were driven by theological differences as well as by political and social factors.
In the twentieth century, Lutherans and Catholics arrived at agreement on the same doctrine of justification, which had divided them for over four hundred years. Their Joint Declaration of 1999 represents a major success within the ecumenical movement, which strives to promote unity among Christians. By it, the mutual condemnations of the sixteenth century were withdrawn by Lutherans and Roman Catholics thereby opening the door for peace between the two churches and in society as a whole. Further, the Joint Declaration gives useful pointers for future ecumenical dialogue which can be used to promote ecumenism in the future. The Joint Declaration thus is a beacon of hope for the entire ecumenical movement.