Impeccability and Temptation: Understanding Christ's Divine and Human Will

The doctrine of two natures in Christian theology states that Christ had both a human and divine will, which raises questions about how a person can be impeccable and subject to temptation. This volume explores these questions through an analytic theology and comparative theology approach, bringing together 15 original papers from scholars and graduate students working in these fields.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In Christian theology, the doctrine of two natures is a fundamental concept that asserts that Jesus Christ possessed both a human and divine will. While this teaching is central to the understanding of Christ's nature, it also presents a logical paradox that challenges our understanding of how a person can be both impeccable and subject to temptation. This volume aims to explore these perplexing questions through an analytic theology approach, bringing together 15 original papers that examine the implications of a strong libertarian concept of free will for Christology.

The contributors to this volume come from various backgrounds, including systematic theologians, philosophers, and biblical scholars. Several chapters also offer a comparative theology approach, examining the concept of impeccability in the Muslim tradition. By exploring these diverse perspectives, the volume seeks to provide a comprehensive examination of the issue of impeccability in Christian theology and its relationship to the broader context of religious traditions.

One of the key themes that emerges from the papers in this volume is the importance of understanding the nature of temptation. The authors argue that temptation is not a moral failing or a weakness but rather a natural aspect of human existence. They suggest that while Christ was perfectly capable of resisting temptation, he did so by relying on his divine nature and the grace of God. This implies that even though humans are subject to temptation, they can overcome it through faith in God and the practice of moral virtue.

Another theme that is explored in the volume is the relationship between free will and impeccability. The authors argue that a strong libertarian concept of free will is necessary for Christology because it allows for the possibility of moral responsibility and choice. Without a libertarian understanding of free will, it would be difficult to explain how Christ could be both impeccable and subject to temptation. However, the authors also recognize that a strong libertarian concept of free will raises questions about the nature of God and the ultimate fate of humanity.

The volume concludes by suggesting that the doctrine of two natures and the concept of impeccability are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary. While Christ's human nature was subject to temptation, his divine nature enabled him to resist it and live a sinless life. This suggests that the ultimate goal of human existence is to imitate Christ by striving for perfection and relying on the grace of God to overcome temptation.

In conclusion, this volume provides a valuable contribution to the study of Christian theology and its relationship to other religious traditions. By exploring the paradoxical nature of Christ's impeccability and free will, the authors offer a fresh perspective on these important theological concepts. The volume will be of interest to scholars and graduate students working in analytic theology, biblical scholarship, systematic theology, and Christian-Islamic dialogue.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367618940