European Protestant and Catholic approaches to the world religions: complements and contrasts

Abstract

Christians of various traditions must engage in a dialogue concerning their attitudes toward other religions in order to develop a more positive Christian approach to other reugions. Basically, contemporary Protestant theologians and post-Vatican II Catholic theologians agree concerning divine revelation's occurrence in non-Christian faiths. First, several examples are given of contributions of Protestant theologians within this trend. Hie content of what is perceived to be revealed through other religions is summarized: a knowledge of a personalized deity, an insight into human condition and human need for redemption, and a sense of absolute transcendence of deity. Examples are given of contributions of Catholic theologians to understanding of divine revelation through human rehgk>ns-the historical approach and transcendental approach. On issue of salvation with other religions, however, Protestant theologians under investigation are not so positive, as is illustrated. The reason advanced by these Protestant theologians for denying salvation outside of Christian faith is that in order for one to be saved, one must have contact with historical Christ event and understand its significance both psychologically and cognitivery. On other hand, Catholic theologians (Vatican II) affirm possibility of salvation outside of Christ, although better way is through Christ. The contrast between Protestant and Catholic approaches to issue results from way each understands Christ. Issues for further research and dialogue are presented: the universal sarvific will of God,** the relation between revelation and salvation,** and one's concept of Christ which in turn ultimately determines approach one takes to all of preceding issues. Two contrasting views of Christ can be derived from New Testament, which can result in contrasting approaches to issue of salvation through non-Christian faiths.