Theology of the Manifest: Christianity without Metaphysics

This book offers a post-catholic Protestant reinterpretation of the Christian faith by challenging the methodological and onto-epistemological assumptions of the Catholic tradition of theology. It draws from Michel Henry and Huldrych Zwingli, addressing theology, God, Jesus, the Church, faith, and sacraments.

Format: Hardback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

This book offers a groundbreaking critique of the methodological and onto-epistemological foundations of the Catholic tradition of theology, aiming to provide a post-Catholic Protestant reinterpretation of the Christian faith without metaphysics. Drawing inspiration from the works of Michel Henry and Huldrych Zwingli, while also making significant original contributions, it delves into various aspects of theology, including the method of theology, theological onto-epistemology, the doctrine of God, the person and work of Jesus, the nature of the Church and Christian faith, and the sacraments of baptism and the Eucharist.

The author begins by challenging the traditional notion of theology as a speculative and abstract discipline, arguing that it must be rooted in the concrete experiences and realities of human life. They argue that theology must be more attentive to the sensory and emotional dimensions of faith, recognizing the importance of the body and the senses in shaping our understanding of God and the world.

The book also explores the onto-epistemological assumptions of the Catholic tradition, questioning the belief in the infallibility of the Church and its teachings. The author suggests that the Church's teachings can be interpreted and reinterpreted in light of contemporary scientific and philosophical developments, without necessarily compromising their core values.

In terms of the doctrine of God, the author proposes a non-metaphysical understanding of God as a dynamic and relational being. They argue that God is not a static entity but rather a process of becoming and transformation, and that our understanding of God should be shaped by our experiences of love, compassion, and justice.

The person and work of Jesus are also examined in the book, with a focus on their historical and cultural context. The author challenges the traditional portrayal of Jesus as a divine being who came to earth to save humanity, arguing that Jesus was a human being who lived and died in a particular historical and cultural context. They suggest that the teachings of Jesus can be interpreted and applied to our contemporary lives in a way that is relevant and meaningful.

The nature of the Church and Christian faith is also explored in the book. The author argues that the Church is not a static institution but rather a living and evolving community of believers. They suggest that the Church should be more inclusive and welcoming to people of all backgrounds and beliefs, and that the Christian faith should be characterized by love, compassion, and justice.

The sacraments of baptism and the Eucharist are also examined in the book, with a focus on their historical and symbolic significance. The author argues that the sacraments are not merely symbolic rituals but rather means of grace and transformation, and that they can be interpreted and experienced in a way that is meaningful and relevant to our contemporary lives.

Overall, this book offers a comprehensive and innovative critique of the Catholic tradition of theology, providing a framework for a post-Catholic Protestant reinterpretation of the Christian faith without metaphysics. It is a valuable resource for scholars, theologians, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of faith and contemporary culture.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 160 x 238 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978715486