Pietism: Past and Present

Abstract

In this essay, Prof. John M. Brenner examines the origins, characteristics, and enduring influence of Pietism within Lutheranism. Beginning with Philipp Jakob Spener’s 1675 publication of Pia Desideria, Brenner traces Pietism’s reaction to perceived moral decay and dead orthodoxy in post–Thirty Years’ War Germany. He outlines Pietism’s emphasis on sanctification over justification, its subjectivism, legalism, and tendency to blur the distinction between law and gospel. Brenner critiques Pietism’s misuse of adiaphora, its synergistic view of conversion, and its shift from objective scriptural truth to emotional experience. He also explores modern manifestations of Pietism in decision theology, the charismatic movement, contemporary Christian music, and the Church Growth Movement. Concluding with pastoral guidance, Brenner urges a return to proper law-gospel distinction, doctrinal clarity, and patient reliance on the efficacy of God’s Word. The essay serves as both a historical analysis and a theological warning for confessional Lutherans today. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)