Pietism: Word of the Week

Pietism  is a theological movement that emphasizes subjectivism and individual piety.  In Pietism, the religion of the heart is placed in opposition to doctrine and theology, or a theology, or a religion of the head.  Because true religion is found in the heart in Pietism, personal devotion and a moral life are prized above the Sacraments.


Pietism can be found in every major Christian denomination, but is most prevalent in Methodist and Neoevangelical congregations.  Pietism has, at various times, also been extremely influential in the Lutheran Church.


Pietism as a way of thinking... has the tendency to rest the assurance of one's relationship with God upon an experience of God, an experience arising out of one's own piety.  (Prenter)


Source: The Lutheran Wiktionary