Friedrich Schleiermacher’s Christian Faith

Abstract

This chapter discusses Friedrich Schleiermacher’s mature theology in his Christian Faith (1830/31), or Glaubenslehre. The chapter situates the work in its modern context, highlights its ecclesial and ecumenical function, and introduces its dogmatic genre and theological method. The chapter argues that Schleiermacher’s Glaubenslehre is beneficially interpreted within the Reformed tradition, and offers two hermeneutical keys that unlock its Reformed features: interpret the text backward, and treat the conclusion as a climactic summary of the work as a whole. These two keys highlight the anti-speculative and Trinitarian features of Schleiermacher’s Christian Faith. The chapter discusses Schleiermacher’s ecclesial pneumatology, Christology, and doctrines of creation and sin. It closes with a consideration of the Glaubenslehre’s enduring influence in the Reformed tradition and the wider theological landscape.