LOA’s Flashcards
(4 cards)
Should Christian communities seek to convert people from other faiths?
In conclusion, Christian communities should not stop proclaiming the gospel, but must redefine evangelism not as conquest but as conversation. Conversion may result organically, but the goal should be faithfulness to Christ expressed through love, understanding, and authentic relationship.
To what extent does scriptural reasoning relativise religious beliefs?
Summary: Scriptural Reasoning does open up questions about truth claims across religions, but does not necessarily relativise belief. Rather, it fosters deeper theological reflection and mutual understanding in a pluralist context.
Final Judgement: The extent to which SR relativises religious belief depends entirely on the attitude of its participants. If entered with a clear commitment to one’s own faith and an openness to listen, it serves as a powerful tool for deepening belief—not diluting it. In this way, it is more of a threat to arrogance than to orthodoxy.
Line of Argument Reasserted: Scriptural Reasoning does not intrinsically relativise religious belief. Instead, it challenges believers to articulate and affirm their truth more rigorously within a respectful and pluralist framework. It is only when doctrinal confidence is lacking that relativism might result.
Has inter-faith dialogue contributed practically towards social cohesion?
While not a panacea, inter-faith dialogue has significantly contributed practically to social cohesion. It does so by enabling religious communities to coexist peacefully, educate each other, and cooperate in shared moral action—all without needing to surrender theological integrity. In a divided world, its relevance is not only clear but increasingly essential.
Should Christians have a mission to convert those of no faith?
In conclusion, while Christianity holds a long-standing tradition of mission, modern pluralist societies require a nuanced approach. Evangelism can still be seen as a vital part of Christian identity, particularly when carried out with humility and compassion, as outlined in Redemptoris Missio and Sharing the Gospel of Salvation.
However, efforts to convert must avoid coercion and cultural insensitivity. In many cases, interfaith dialogue and practices such as Scriptural Reasoning offer more constructive methods of engagement in a diverse world.
Therefore, Christians should maintain a mission-oriented outlook, but adapt their methods to prioritise respectful dialogue and mutual understanding. The mission to convert remains relevant, but it must be reformed rather than abandoned, preserving the core Christian imperative while fostering peace in multi-faith societies.
