Systematic Luther Interpretation in liberal Theology

Pope Benedict XVI's lecture at the University of Regensburg recently showed that liberal theology is not only an epoch of the past. Now it also serves as a disputable alternative among rivalling understanding of Christianity. This essay, however, demonstrates its timeliness on the basis of Wilhelm Herrmann's and Rudolf Otto's analyses of Luther, which have received little attention in research concerning liberal theology. Far beyond hero worship, their interpretations can be regarded as exemplary forms of a methodically deliberated culture of remembrance. It also plays a central role in both authors' oeuvres. In addition, this case study demonstrates that the reconstruction of intellectual history and systematic concepts can be mutually relevant and productive. While Herrmann receives important contributions from Luther for a contemporary Christology, Otto develops a theory of religious experience in a nutshell based on the reformer's view of the Holy Spirit.