Interaction by Design: Social Connectedness

This study elucidates, examines, and analyzes a critical conversation between two Swiss Catholic theologians, Hans Urs von Balthasar and Raymund Schwager, concerning the theological significance and efficacy of the death of Jesus.

The analysis raises several issues of interest in soteriology today.

The Introduction presents a brief biography of each theologian, a summary of relevant work, and mention of important influences.

Chapter I introduces the parameters for the investigation, delineating the timeline of the exchange between Balthasar and Schwager, the methodology, problems faced by the investigation, and their mitigation.

Chapter II describes essential elements of Balthasar's view of the cross, beginning with an elucidation of the major elements that ground it.

Balthasar views the death of Jesus as primarily a drama of vicarious atonement carried out between Father and Son wherein the interrelated themes of divine wrath and judgment play important roles.

Emphasis is placed upon points of contrast with Schwager.

Chapter III highlights essential points of Schwager's soteriology that are of relevance to this study.

Schwager's work is inspired by a contemporary view that finds theological meaning in the problematic of human violence.

This gives him a hermeneutical framework that leads to a fresh understanding of the event of the cross along with an associated view of divine wrath and judgment that contrasts with that of Balthasar.

The analysis comprising Chapter IV illuminates the important similarities and distinctions between the two theologians and clarifies the critical exchange between them.

The critique offered by each side is organized by topic and analyzed for efficacy.

A final chapter assesses the arguments and analyzes them for the contribution they make to our understanding of salvation.

One section reviews some of the more recent related work for its ability to help resolve the difficult issues raised by the contrasting views of Balthasar and Schwager.

Points of departure and some lines of investigation are suggested for further work.

Since both Schwager's and Balthasar's positions are characterized by advantages and difficulties, I suggest current lines of research with potential for mitigating the problems while retaining the benefits.