Orthodox Response to Christian Universalism: The Theological Perspective of Pavel Florensky

Abstract

This study aims to offer an Orthodox response to the challenges posed by the new understanding of Christian universalism. We argue that contemporary man requires a clear and comprehensive answer to this issue, given that universalism is not merely a theological concept but also must be understood by each individual. This response is imperative as Christianity is obligated to answer everyone at all times, in line with the teachings of Apostle Peter about being prepared to answer questions about our hope (1 Peter 3:15). In this context, the study examines contemporary antinomian views on Christian universalism, with a specific focus on the original theory of theologian Pavel Florensky. Florensky posits that divine judgment will separate the 'holy self' of the damned - which will be preserved without exception and viewed joyously by the righteous, but will only objectively exist for them - from their self-consciousness of enduring torment and illusory subjectivity. Through this lens, hell is perceived as the sole reality in the consciousness of the damned, yet non-existent in the consciousness of God and the righteous. This study provides an important perspective on how Orthodox theology can respond to the challenges of universalism in a contemporary context.