Sola Scriptura or Sola Traditione?

The Orthodox Theology of Tradition as a Solution to the Reformation Debate About Theological Authority

This work’s principle question examines if the Orthodox theology of Tradition would have offered a solution to the Reformation debate about theological authority. The meaning of the term ‘Tradition’ serves as the starting point, followed by an overview of the theology of Tradition from the apostolic era till the Patristic time. An extensive study of the development of tension between Scripture and Tradition in the West is offered, as the Great Schism of 1054 CE marks a turning point in this debate. This study includes a discussion of the so-called heresies of the forerunners of the Reformation. The work then considers how the debate reached its peak during the Reformation, when Sola scriptura was pitted against any extra-biblical teachings, looking in detail at Luther’s contribution to the Leipzig Disputation (1519) and On Councils and the Church (1539). Finally, the work explores the dialogues between the Orthodox Church and the Lutherans, including the most recent ones, before offering the convergences, potentials, and recommendations for future dialogues.