2026 Trembath Lecture
We are pleased to announce the 2026 Trembath Lecture by the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Ruehs on January 21, 2026, 10:30 AM, DeNault Auditorium.
Avoiding the "Opposite Errors:" Luther's Diabology as the Means between the Extremes of Western Christendom
While statistical data on religious beliefs in America indicate that the devil has declined in popularity among respondents, popular culture continues to demonstrate an ongoing fascination with this elusive and diabolical figure. The same tension can also be observed within the church. In this Trembath lecture, we will examine two prominent and opposing views on diabology found within Western Christendom—those represented by Walter Wink on one side and C. Peter Wagner on the other. Furthermore, we will argue that, although both perspectives fail to capture a fully biblical understanding of the devil, Martin Luther’s balanced, “middle-of-the-road” approach successfully addresses the key concerns raised by each while remaining faithful to the Word of God. In doing so, Luther provides a biblical framework that avoids, in the words of C.S. Lewis, the “opposite errors” of the other two positions.
Rev. Dr. Jonathan Ruehs
Associate Professor of Theology, Christ College
Wednesday, January 21, 2026