Millard Erickson's "Christian Theology" explores the possibility and nature of theology in light of historical and philosophical shifts. He begins by questioning whether theology is even feasible, given challenges from Modernism and Postmodernism. Erickson traces the evolution of theological thought, noting how Modernity's emphasis on reason and science pressured theologians to defend faith on empirical grounds. He then discusses Postmodernism's critique of grand narratives and its focus on cultural conditioning, which poses new challenges to theological claims of universal truth.
Erickson examines different views of doctrine, arguing for a cognitive approach where doctrines convey factual realities about God, humanity, and salvation, while also acknowledging experiential, practical, and narrative dimensions. He addresses the issue of perspectivism, the idea that all knowledge is shaped by individual backgrounds, and warns against chronocentrism, the assumption that one's own era is uniquely enlightened.
To move beyond postmodern challenges, Erickson proposes "postperspectivism" and "neofoundationalism." Postperspectivism involves recognizing biases and actively working to reduce them, while neofoundationalism acknowledges the need for baseline convictions without demanding absolute certainty. He also advocates for a correspondence view of truth, where language can reflect real states of affairs. Finally, Erickson presents a three-tiered model of Christian life: faith, doctrine, and theology, illustrating the interplay between everyday belief, reflective understanding, and systematic theological analysis. He concludes by asserting that theology remains a viable and necessary endeavor, requiring humility, self-reflection, and engagement with diverse perspectives.
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