Crossing the Divide: Luther, Feminism, and the Cross

by Deanna A. Thompson

Over the last two decades, traditional formulations of the idea of atonement have come under heavy attack from feminist theologians and others. They argue that the traditional view valorizes suffering and encourages people to acquiesce in needless self-sacrificing, that it is unseemly to think of God as demanding suffering of his son, and that the theology of the cross needs to be rethought in light of the whole life, ministry, and resurrection of Jesus. Equally committed to the insights of the theology of the cross and feminist theology, Deanna Thompson takes up these contentious issues here in a creative and nuanced way. Her work emerges from direct engagement with Martin Luther and the Heidelberg Disputation as well as with the architects of reformist feminism. She finds surprising common ground on issues of suffering, abuse, atonement, reform, ethics, and the import of Jesus, and her book culminates in a constructive and promising feminist theology of the cross.

Genres: Theology, Religion

200 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2004

Reviews

[Robert D. Cornwall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I became a fan of the work of theologian Deanna Thompson after reading her wonderful theological commentary on Deuteronomy. I h ave since had the opportunity to get to know Deanna as a friend. This is the third book of hers that I've read, and I must say it is quite good.

In this book she offers us a feminist theology of the cross in conversation with both feminist theologians and Martin Luther. At a time when the cross has become a scandal for many progressive Christians, but most especially feminist theologians, Deanna crosses the divide and offers us a means of reconnecting with the cross. She is very aware of the problems attendant to Luther's actions and statements, but she also finds a conversation partner that opens up new vistas for theological exploration.

In seeking to be a feminist theologian of the cross, in conversation with Luther, she reminds us of the dangers of embracing a theology of glory. She reminds as she does in a section exploring the relationship of Sarah and Hagar how one can be both victim and oppressor, thus in need of redemption. In addition, drawing from Luther's vision the bridegroom relationship that redeems the bride, a vision that is very sexist, she points us to a theology of friendship where in Jesus is the friend who lays down his life for the friend as a way of understanding the cross as redemptive.

Being that I myself wish to reengage the cross and its meaning for the Christian faith, I am thankful for Deanna's message, and look forward to more! If you're struggling with the theology of the cross, I recommend this book very highly!!

[India · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. She analyzes Luther's theology of the cross through a feminist lense. Something that was especially meaningful for me was her assessment of victim/oppressor. She acknowledges that this is something that we all share, sometimes we can be victim, sometimes oppressor. We never fully embody one or the other. She says that anytime any of us is the oppressor we are victimizing Christ.

She also argues that for use of the word friend in relation to others rather than servant or other terms employed in Christian terminology. This is definitely a book worth reading; especially if you are Lutheran or interested in Luther.

[Neil White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent constructive dialogue between Martin Luther's Theology of the Cross and recent feminist perspectives. Deanna Thompson does an excellent job explaining Luther's theology, particularly the role of experience in the theology of Luther and then uses this to engage our time through a feminist lens. An excellent example of constructive theology.