Q. I have heard people making a distinction between a theology of glory and the theology of the cross. What is the distinction being made?

A. The "theology of the cross," as this phrase is used in Lutheran circles, usually refers to Martin Luther's insight that God reveals himself most clearly, graciously and "gloriously" not through obvious outward "blessings" or "spiritual experiences" or the "wisdom" of human reason (this is how a "theology of glory" seeks after God) but in the "hiddenness" and lowliness of the cross and sufferings--first and foremost, through the cross of Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 1:18-25), and then also through our identification with Christ's cross through faith (Gal. 2:20) and through our sharing in his sufferings as cross-bearers for him.

Most good biographies of Martin Luther or summaries of his theology should have a discussion of this aspect of his theology (check with Concordia Publishing House, 1-800-325-3040 for more information). One of the best brief summaries is Heino Kadai's essay, "Luther's Theology of the Cross," which was reprinted in a recent issue of Concordia Theological Monthly, the academic journal of Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne.