Szaleństwo chrześcijaństwa: teologia i świadectwo
A. Dziuba
January 5, 2018 DOI: 10.21697/ct.2017.87.2.05 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that the "foolishness" of the cross, exemplified by Eastern Christianity's "God's fools," is the basic process of theological interpretation and a form of faith born of mystical experience. Contends that reason and rationality cannot overcome evil, that charitable theories and aid do not solve poverty, and that forgiveness and the foolishness of love offer the only real hope. |
Abstract
In the theology of Eastern Christianity there is a special category of “God’s fools.” This is a particular image of faith and belongs to those who have had some mystical experience. The cross is marked by reason. This foolishness of the cross is the basic process in theological interpretation. The cross should shine out even more with its foolishness against the glare of evil, as it draws one to the authentic witness of faith and life. Rationality and reason are not sufficient to face evil. The large amount of help and voluminous theories on poverty do not solve the problems of the poor. The “foolishness” of the Gospel stands up against the foolishness of violence. Victory means forgiveness in God’s name, who appeared to lose the battle on the cross. The foolishness of the cross is a gift leading to life and it sparks a great light of hope which many institutions and people want to extinguish. Hope is not understood, especially when evil appears to triumph. The foolishness of love can overcome evil. “The message of the cross is folly for those who are on the way to ruin, but for those of us who are on the road to salvation it is the power of God” (1 Cor 1,18).