The Gravity of Sin: Augustine, Luther and Barth on 'homo incurvatus in se'

by Matt Jenson

Matt Jenson argues that the image of being 'curved in on oneself' is the best paradigm for understanding sin relationally, that it has sufficient explanatory breadth and depth to be of service to contemporary Christian theology. He looks to Augustine as the Christian source for this image in his various references to humanity's turn to itself, though the threads of a relational account of sin are not drawn together with any systematic consequence until Martin Luther's description of 'homo incurvatus in se' in his commentary on Romans. Luther radicalizes Augustine's conception by applying this relational view of sin to the totus homo and by emphasizing its appearance, above all, in homo religiosus. The Western tradition of sin understood paradigmatically as pride has been recently called into question by feminist theologians. Daphne Hampson's critique of Luther on this front is considered and critiqued. Though she is right to call attention to the insufficiency of his and Augustine's myopic focus on pride, the question remains whether 'incurvatus in se' can operate paradigmatically as an umbrella concept covering a far wider range of sins. Karl Barth's extension of 'incurvatus in se' to apply more broadly to pride, sloth and falsehood suggests that incurvature can do just that.

Genres: Theology

224 pages, Paperback

First published February 8, 2007

Reviews

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first 97 pages of this book is a must read for anyone who wants to understand the connection between the heart and sin. Jenson's treatment of Augustine, Luther, and Barth is well written, approachable, clear, and thought provoking. For those interested in a greater understanding of the nature and riches of grace, a greater understanding of the nature of sin is essential. Exploring the writings of three of the church's most insightful theologians, Matt Jenson offers a picture of sin that inspires an awe of God's grace. Jenson provides a study of "homo incurvates in se" that is foundational and scriptural as a means for describing the nature of sin. Jenson explains it well.
The rest of the book engages the subject of feminism which was not my primary interest or aim in reading it. However, the first two chapters make this work worth the purchase price.