Religious pluralism and theology Flashcards
What is exclusivism?
The view that Salvation is not possible if you are not a Christian
What is inclusivism?
Although it is christ that is the means of salvation, it does not imply that it is only possible to be saved inside the Christian church.
What is pluralism?
The view that there are many ways to salvation and Christianity is just one of those paths. Other religions offer equally valid ways.
What does the Vatican Two say about issues with the exclusive view?
‘[Through] no fault of their own, do not know the Gospel of Christ or his Church, but who nevertheless seek God with a sincere heart’
What does the quote from Vatican Two suggest?
It is not the fault of those people who do not know who Christ is.
It questions how people who have a sincere heart to God could possibly still be sent to hell/condemned.
Inculpably ignorant
Through no fault of their own they did not know who Jesus was
Why did Karl Rahner believe Christianity was unique?
-Christianity is unique as it was founded on God’s ultimate act of revelation (Jesus Christ)
Why does Karl Rahner reject the idea that all religions are equal?
Christianity holds the truth but it is through the grace of god that allows people to be saved if they do not know directly about Christ.
People can devote their lives to the service of others without realizing they are following the example of Jesus.
What is the ‘anonymous Christian’ concept?
They do not call themselves Christians but turn to Christ without knowing due to the decisions they make and attitudes they adopt.
What is the Transfiguration story?
Moses and Elijah (dead) spoke to Jesus before he had died on the cross
What does the Transfiguration tell us about exclusivism?
This shows that heaven was available to all before Jesus died therefore criticizing an exclusivist view.
What does Kraemer say?
Any other religion is a misguided attempt to the truth - this was rejected by Rahner
What does Saint Cyprian of Carthage (third century bishop) say about exclusivism?
‘Outside the church there is no salvation’
This explains the early missionary work of the church
Titus 3:5
‘He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy’
What do exclusivists think of Jesus?
Jesus is the mediator between humans and God - without him God would be inaccessible and salvation would be impossible.
