Reflections on Mirror Reflections

The Power of Scripture in the Lausanne Covenant and Søren Kierkegaard’s The Mirror of the Word

Authors

  • Matthew T. Nowachek ALT School of Theology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58412/hyb.v3i3.47950

Keywords:

Lausanne Covenant, Søren Kierkegaard, The Mirror of the Word, Scripture

Abstract

The article explores the transformative power of Scripture in light of the theological emphases of the Lausanne Covenant, with particular attention to its use of biblical metaphors. Taking the document’s fiftieth anniversary as a point of departure, it argues for its continued relevance by deepening the analysis of an underutilized image: the mirror metaphor in the Letter of James, further developed by Søren Kierkegaard in  the essay "The Mirror of the Word". In contrast to the Lausanne Covenant’s emphasis on the Bible as an external, operative means of transformation, Kierkegaard underscores the reader’s inner, self-reflective engagement. Through this mirror metaphor, the understanding of Scripture’s role is enriched—both in revealing sin and in inspiring repentance, as well as in contributing to the believer’s inner renewal. The article demonstrates how these two perspectives complement one another and calls for continued reflection on the workings of Scripture in the Christian life.

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Omslagsbild HYBRID: originalartiklar

Published

29-08-2025

How to Cite

Nowachek, M. T. (2025). Reflections on Mirror Reflections: The Power of Scripture in the Lausanne Covenant and Søren Kierkegaard’s The Mirror of the Word. HYBRID: Between Academy, the Church, and Society, 3(3), 141–156. https://doi.org/10.58412/hyb.v3i3.47950