On the Universal Redemption of the Whole Human Race Accomplished by Christ

Did Christ accomplish redemption for every human being, or only for the elect? In this 1596 disputation, Lutheran theologian Leonhard Hutter answers with a close reading of Scripture and a sustained argument against particular redemption.

Hutter makes a distinction that remains essential: Christ’s redemptive work was accomplished for the whole human race, while its saving benefits are received through faith. He explicitly rejects the claim that believers and unbelievers alike have already been forgiven and justified. The universality of Christ’s work grounds the sincerity of the Gospel promise and the consolation offered to troubled consciences; it does not turn unbelief into possession of forgiveness.

This edition presents all seventy theses in English, together with the original title-page and dedication material, an introduction to the controversy, source and explanatory notes, a biographical register, a glossary, and a select bibliography.