Introducing Theologies Of Religion

An up-to-date, accessible, and comprehensive study of every major position taken by Christian churches and theologians on world religions and religious pluralism.This volume shares insights into the positions of writers concerned with understanding Christianity among the worlds great religious traditions. Avoiding tired labels of past debates (Exclusivism, Pluralism, and Inclusivism), Knitter suggest four different models (Replacement, Fulfillment, Mutuality, and Acceptance) that more adequately link together thirteen ways of approaching and understanding the variety of the worlds religious expressions.

How does Christianity relate to other religions? Beginning with a consideration of the biblical perspective, Veli-Matti Kärkkäinen offers a detailed and comprehensive survey of the diverse explanations proposed by teachers of the church down through the ages. This indispensable guide is for anyone seeking to grasp Christianity?s relationship to world religions.

This volume shares insights into the positions of writers concerned with understanding Christianity among the world's great religious traditions. Avoiding tired labels of past debates (Exclusivism, Pluralism, and Inclusivism), Knitter suggests four different models (Replacement, Fulfillment, Mutuality, and Acceptance) that more adequately link together thirteen ways of approaching and understanding the variety of the world's religious expressions.

Sound theological method is a necessary prerequisite for good theological work. This accessible introduction surveys contemporary theological methodology by presenting leading thinkers of the 20th and 21st centuries as models. The book presents the strengths and weaknesses in each of the major options. Rather than favoring one specific position, it helps students of theology think critically so they can understand and develop their own theological method.

Renowned theologian and philosopher of religion John Hick takes a hard look at intellectual problems facing Christians in the late twentieth century: Where exactly does Christianity fit into the scheme of the world in light of other world religions? and Is it possible to remain Christian while accepting the truth of other beliefs? Employing the use of a dialogue between "Phil" (philosophy) and "Grace" (theology), Hick explores the validity of other religions and Christianity's place among them. Offering good reasons for why the traditional stance that Christianity is the only true religion is no longer workable, he puts forth a cogent defense of Christianity in the global context of other religions. This book is must reading for those concerned about the uniqueness of Christianity and how it is to be interpreted theologically in today's world.

Established experts and new voices debate the current situation and future research directions in the Theology of Religions. Perspectives from a range of religious traditions and theological backgrounds are offered as contributions to this expanding research field.

One of the world's foremost exponents of the "pluralist" position as the most adequate Christian theological account of religious diversity turns to a new and urgent issue facing the community of world religions. For Paul Knitter, the spectre of environmental and social injustice looms over any serious discussion of humankind's future. As urgent as it is to have peace among the world's believers to achieve peace among nations, it is urgent that these communities unite in understanding and defending of the earth. In One Earth Many Religions Knitter looks back at his own "dialogical odyssey" and forward to the way that interfaith encounters and dialogue must focus attention on new challenges. Nothing less than enlisting the commitment of the world's religions on the task of saving our common home will do. In making that case, Knitter makes clear the complex structurespolitical, economic, and social as well as religious - that face those who approach this task. While articulating a "this-worldly soteriology" necessary to overcome our eco-human plight, Knitter offers practical considerations on actions and projects that have and should have been undertaken to stem the tide of environmental and human suffering. The global crisis is both at the center of One Earth Many Religions and a test case for Knitter and others engaged in the dialogue of religions. Can religious differences concerning the nature of the transcendent themselves be transcended in order to promote eco-human well-being? The issue seems basic and clearif interreligious dialogue cannot effect such a change, then one must question whether religion is of any use whatsoever.