Religion Against Itself
Robert Jenson's first book emerged from his doctoral dissertation at the University of Heidelberg, written during the theological ferment of the 1960s when American Christianity grappled with secularization, the "death of God" movement, and questions about religion's relevance in modern society. As a young Lutheran theologian trained in both American and German contexts, Jenson confronted the paradox of a faith that seemed to undermine its own religious foundations.
Jenson argues that authentic Christianity is inherently self-critical, containing within itself the seeds of opposition to religion as commonly understood. Drawing on dialectical theology and existentialist insights, he contends that the gospel's radical message necessarily challenges institutionalized religiosity, pious certainties, and comfortable God-concepts. The book explores how biblical faith persistently subverts human attempts to domesticate the divine, creating what Jenson calls a "religion against itself." He examines how this dynamic operates in Scripture, church history, and contemporary theological reflection, suggesting that Christianity's apparent vulnerability to secular critique actually reflects its authentic prophetic character. Rather than defending religion against its cultured despisers, Jenson proposes that Christians should embrace the faith's inherently iconoclastic tendency.
Though written over fifty years ago, the book anticipated many themes that would define Jenson's later systematic theology, particularly his emphasis on God's radical freedom and the gospel's disruptive power. It remains valuable for understanding the development of one of America's most significant theological minds and offers insights into how confessional Christianity might engage secular modernity without defensive posturing. Readers interested in mid-twentieth century Protestant theology, the relationship between faith and culture, or Jenson's intellectual development will find this work illuminating. Those seeking devotional material or practical spiritual guidance should look elsewhere.