Relation between the person of Christ and the principle of redemption: especially as propounded by D. F. Strauss, A. E. Biedermann, and E. P. W. Troeltsch

Abstract

This thesis is a study of the relation of Jesus Christ to redemption. It is essentially an historical study with special reference to the positions of three representative nineteenth century German theologians, Strauss, Biedermann, and Troeltsch. The thesis does not claim to "be an exhaustive treatment of the doctrine of redemption or of the Person of Christ except as the two are related in the systems of these three thinkers. Only indirectly is it concerned with the history and theological expression of the doctrine of redemption in the Christian Church or with such Christological considerations as the Incarnation and Atonement of Christ. It is primarily a study of a specific problem, within a specific period of time, and as developed by a specific group of theologians.

Strauss, Biedermann, and Troeltsch held a common position in separating the person of Christ from the principle of redemption. They regarded redemption as a principle or eternal truth in its own right apart from the Person of Christ. AS over against this position, this thesis takes its stand without apology upon the evangelical experience of the Church which knows only a Redeemer and nothing of a principle.

The first two chapters deal with the philosophical and theological tendencies in the nineteenth century as they bear upon the problem of person and principle. The third, fourth, and fifth chapters are devoted to detailed exposition of the positions of Strauss, Biedermann, and Troeltsch. chapter six compares and contrasts these three positions. The concluding chapter opposes the principle interpretation of redemption with the Christian experience of the Redeemer.