What is the significance of Luther’s taking the unity of the two natures in Christ as his starting or anchor point for his Christology?

[Austin]

The Two Natures in Christ: Communication of Attributes

a. Emphasis on unity of person

b. Jesus possessed all divine attributes in the Incarnation but did not use them at all times.

c. Philipians2:6 refers to continuing attitude of Incarnate Christ. Christ took on the form of servant and daily He subjected himself to all evils, He took on our sinfulness of our human nature as He went to the cross.

d. Christ assumed all human burdens under sin.

e. For Luther the whole understanding of Christology, God’s coming among us , that “pro me” “pro nobis” (for me, for us). Focuses on God’s disposition, His heart, His will.

d. Strong Johannine elements in Luther’s Christology

e. Devil’s work to undermine belief in Christ.

a. The understanding of Christ is always a under threat.

b. Christian life is a life of conflict, a battlefield of the human existence between God and the devil.

c. Devil uses to undermine trust in Jesus as Savior. Devil undermines our belief in Christ.