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Adolf von Harnack


24 Nov 2004

Adolf von Harnack (1851-1930)

Major works

          History of Dogma (7 vols.)

          What is Christianity

Importance

          German theologian and church historian

          Was the foremost German advocate of a Protestant liberal theological program

          Saw religion as reconciling culture and the Christian faith

          Taught that we must get past dogma to the practical thrust of Jesus’ teachings

          Took a highly individualistic approach to Christian living

          Emphasized love and the kingdom of God

          Most outstanding patristic scholar of his generation

          Was greatly influenced by Ritschl