Calvin and other religions
Loading...
Date
2004
Authors
Potgieter, P. C.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Theology, University of the Free State
Abstract
English: Widely differing views on ways leading to true knowledge of God is at present characteristic
of discussions in the sphere of religion. Although Calvin worked in a completely
different scene, he has laid down certain principles based on his interpretation
of Holy Scripture that may contribute to current theological thought on this
issue. In this article his views on true and false religion, non-Christian faiths, the
uniqueness of Christ as Mediator and Redeemer, and universalism is discussed from
the perspective not only of his Institutes, but also of his Commentaries, Tracts and
Treatises and Letters. His conviction is that careful observation of God’s Word leads
to the principle of Christ as the only way to God. Any kind of self-invented religion,
even though it is the result of an appeal by God’s general revelation on the sensus
divinitatis in mankind, leads to idolatry.
The view that all faiths are so many different ways to come to knowledge
of the Divine Being, is not only widespread, but is obviously becoming more
popular among people in many different walks of life. Religious freedom is
seen by many not only as part and parcel of human rights, but also as contrary
to the ideas of those who proclaim the uniqueness of their particular
faith for a true relationship with God and for salvation to eternal life. Many
people — among them well-known theologians — will certainly find the
distinction between true and false religions abhorrent. For those, proselytism
and even mission work among people of traditional religions has become
improper, offensive and unacceptable.
Du Preez lists a number of reasons why attention should currently be
paid to developing a sound theology of religions. He mentions inter alia the
better knowledge and respect for non-Christian faiths in the Western World; the realisation that religious pluralism is a fait accompli; the misgivings
about Christianity among some Third World people; the relative decline of
Christianity in Europe; a new interest in oriental mysticism among many
young people; and the question of whether the Church should indeed continue
its mission work among people of other faiths. Factors like these necessitate
a theologia religionum (Du Preez 1983:129). In this regard John
Calvin’s view of other religions may be of significant value.
Description
Keywords
Calvin, Religion, Revelation, Uniqueness of Christ
Citation
Potgieter, P. C. (2004). Calvin and other religions. Acta Theologica, 24(1), 147-167.