Christology and Metaphysics in the Seventeenth Century

Richard Cross explores seventeenth-century Christology, showing how theologians develop and expand theories associated with Thomas Aquinas and Duns Scotus, with Iberian Dominicans incorporating Suárez's theory of modes, Lutherans using Cajetan's account, and Reformed theologians adapting Scotus's position.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Richard Cross delves into the largely unexplored realm of seventeenth-century Christology, meticulously examining its metaphysical and semantic underpinnings and ramifications. He demonstrates that theologians across the spectrum, from all denominations, cultivate and elaborate theories that are closely linked to the medieval theologians Thomas Aquinas and Duns Scotus. The Italian and French Dominicans, influenced by Cardinal Cajetan, closely adhere to Aquinas' teachings, interpreting them through his lens. However, most Iberian Dominicans integrate Suárez's theory of modes into their accounts, with Suárez, who modified Scotus' theory, in turn being followed by his fellow Jesuits. Lutherans utilize Cajetan's account to address explanatory gaps in their own interpretations, while Reformed theologians generally adopt the position associated with Scotus. The study concludes with an account of Leibniz's Christology, situated within its historical and conceptual framework.

Richard Cross embarks on a profound exploration into the largely unexplored territory of seventeenth-century Christology, delving into its intricate metaphysical and semantic foundations. With meticulous attention, he uncovers the profound implications of these presuppositions and their far-reaching consequences. Cross reveals that theologians from diverse backgrounds, spanning various denominations, develop and expand theories that bear close resemblance to the theological ideas of medieval giants Thomas Aquinas and Duns Scotus. The Italian and French Dominicans, guided by the wisdom of Cardinal Cajetan, closely adhere to Aquinas' teachings, interpreting them through his insightful lens. However, it is the Iberian Dominicans who take a distinctive path, integrating Suárez's theory of modes into their theological discourse. Suárez, in turn, draws inspiration from Scotus' theories, creating a modified framework that resonates with his fellow Jesuits. Lutherans find value in Cajetan's account, utilizing it to fill in explanatory gaps within their own interpretations. Meanwhile, Reformed theologians predominantly adopt the position associated with Scotus, further shaping the development of Christology in this historical era.

Weight: 678g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192856432