Theological Pluralism
Theonomic and Pluralistic Pluralism – What is it? Pluralistic is a philosophy or attitude concerning the variety of religious beliefs existing in modern society, co-existing with all other existing religious beliefs. According to theists, there is just one God (the 'God-maker' of all things) and all other beliefs are idolizes. Non-theists believe there are multiple gods, but none of them is the God of the theists.
The core of the issue is the question of whether the Christian faith is viable without the presence of God. Many theistic believers reject this idea out of hand, and thus it becomes a source of tension between these two competing camps.
The core of the issue is the question of whether the Christian faith is viable without the presence of God. Many theistic believers reject this idea out of hand, and thus it becomes a source of tension between these two competing camps.
Theistic believers believe that their Christian faith is true and valid, while non-theistic believers claim that their religious beliefs are valid. This can become a kind of philosophical debate, and at times, has even resulted in violence. However, there are many who accept that the core of the matter is the reality of monotheism. This brings us to the first principle of theological pluralism:
The issue then is whether we have a clear picture of the theological task before us. If you don't have a clear image of the theological task, how are you going to know which theological ideas are valid and which ones are invalid? How are you going to know what your theological principles say, and how they apply to your lives?
 |
| Theological Pluralism |
These are important questions, and they must be answered by us. Sadly, some of our most prominent leaders have not been clear on the question of the existence and role of God. I have pointed this out as a reason why we shouldn't trust them altogether.
Underlying theological pluralism, therefore, is the recognition that there are multiple religious paths to follow. Each path has its own set of principles and ideas, but they all have to do with theosis–that is, theosis refers to theories in terms of knowledge, faith and virtue. Without theosis, theology is incomplete. We cannot expect to walk in the theological light without having a complete understanding of it.
Theologians need to address theologies of gender, race and sexuality in their theological programs, as well. Many have not thought through the issues of gay and lesbian people in these terms, which makes them ignorant and unblessed. At the same time, there are fundamental disagreements over the nature of womanhood, the place of women in society and their place in God's plan.
Underlying theological pluralism, therefore, is the recognition that there are multiple religious paths to follow. Each path has its own set of principles and ideas, but they all have to do with theosis–that is, theosis refers to theories in terms of knowledge, faith and virtue. Without theosis, theology is incomplete. We cannot expect to walk in the theological light without having a complete understanding of it.
Theologians need to address theologies of gender, race and sexuality in their theological programs, as well. Many have not thought through the issues of gay and lesbian people in these terms, which makes them ignorant and unblessed. At the same time, there are fundamental disagreements over the nature of womanhood, the place of women in society and their place in God's plan.
We must also recognize that there are fundamental differences between anal sex and masturbation, and the church should not allow anyone to use either of these activities as a means of expression of their sexual identity. All of these issues are necessary components of theologies of gender and pastoral ministry.
In addition, we have to be very clear that there is no place for charismaticism in theologies of gender and pastoral ministry. Charismatic leaders are encouraged to remain within their private theological community and engage in public ministry. This is part of the affirmation of theories that every true believer needs to make. Charismatic leaders do not need to claim an exclusive place for themselves, but they need to choose their theological communities carefully.
A very interesting way to approach theologies of gender and pastoral ministry is to see how theology fits with scripture. Just as the scripture can be read to apply specific theologies of gender and sexuality, so too can theologies of gender and scripture be applied to one another. This is very important work in our seminaries and colleges. We must learn how to read scripture together with one another in order to minister to each other effectively. Biblical scholarship is also important in this work because students need to be encouraged to critically examine scripture and engage in exegetical work.
In summary, we must avoid the tendency to use one kind of scripture for teaching and another for preaching. Scripture cannot be separated from its context or interpretation in order to be applied in different ways. Theologies of gender and spirituality are deeply related because both relate to the revelation of God through the work of Jesus Christ. Exegetical preaching can engage the whole of the church in order to prepare those for the kingdom of God while engaging those who have walked in the footsteps of Christ.
In addition, we have to be very clear that there is no place for charismaticism in theologies of gender and pastoral ministry. Charismatic leaders are encouraged to remain within their private theological community and engage in public ministry. This is part of the affirmation of theories that every true believer needs to make. Charismatic leaders do not need to claim an exclusive place for themselves, but they need to choose their theological communities carefully.
A very interesting way to approach theologies of gender and pastoral ministry is to see how theology fits with scripture. Just as the scripture can be read to apply specific theologies of gender and sexuality, so too can theologies of gender and scripture be applied to one another. This is very important work in our seminaries and colleges. We must learn how to read scripture together with one another in order to minister to each other effectively. Biblical scholarship is also important in this work because students need to be encouraged to critically examine scripture and engage in exegetical work.
In summary, we must avoid the tendency to use one kind of scripture for teaching and another for preaching. Scripture cannot be separated from its context or interpretation in order to be applied in different ways. Theologies of gender and spirituality are deeply related because both relate to the revelation of God through the work of Jesus Christ. Exegetical preaching can engage the whole of the church in order to prepare those for the kingdom of God while engaging those who have walked in the footsteps of Christ.
Post a Comment for "Theological Pluralism"