The Imago Dei in Confessional Lutheran Theology: Establishing Biblical and Historical Foundations for Understanding Narrow and Broad Senses

Abstract

The Imago Dei in Confessional Lutheran Theology: Establishing Biblical and Historical Foundations for Understanding Narrow and Broad Senses The doctrine of the imago Dei grounds Christian teaching on human dignity, ethics, and identity. However, confessional Lutheran theology has focused almost exclusively on the narrow sense of the image—original righteousness lost in the Fall and restored in Christ—leaving the broader sense less explored. This thesis examines the biblical foundations and historical development of the imago Dei within confessional Lutheranism to define clear boundaries for understanding both senses. Through historical-grammatical exegesis of key Old and New Testament passages (Gen 1:26–28; 5:3; 9:6; Jas 3:9; Col 1:15; 2 Cor 3:18; 4:4–6), this study applies an ontological and functional framework to understand the image of God in both narrow and broad senses. The distinctions between the two emerge from theological challenges faced by the orthodox Lutheran church, as shown by a historical review of confessional Lutheran sources from the Reformation to today. This synthesis equips pastors to navigate contemporary issues related to natural law, human dignity, and biblical anthropology without compromising Lutheran principles.