Date of Award
5-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Systematic Theology
First Reader
Ronald J. Feenstra, Ph. D.
Second Reader
Young Ahn Kang, Ph. D.
Third Reader
John Bolt, Ph. D.
Fourth Reader
Cornelis van der Kooi, Ph. D.
Abstract
This dissertation builds upon John Bolt’s suggestion that Wolfhart Pannenberg’s work can be utilized to extend and further elaborate upon Herman Bavinck’s efforts in outlining the fundamental contours of a philosophy of revelation. It focuses on various themes related to the doctrine of revelation to examine the theological and metaphysical frameworks of Bavinck and Pannenberg. Through a comparative analysis of their theoretical approaches, this study aims to offer a fresh, comprehensive perspective on the doctrine of revelation, highlighting their shared metaphysical foundations and the synthesis of orthodox and modern thought.
In this research, I explore the motifs and frameworks of understanding revelation, natural theology, history, Trinity, and epistemology, as perceived by Bavinck and Pannenberg. The investigation into these themes supports the argument that their respective concepts, such as Bavinck’s organic motif and Pannenberg’s notion of totality, exhibit notable similarities and a shared metaphysical foundation. These common theological motifs and foundations, coupled with their analogous framework in Trinitarian theology, demonstrate their mutual inclination towards integrating and revising classical Christian thought with modern ideas. This is particularly evident in their absorption of German idealism within Christian doctrine.
Both Bavinck and Pannenberg exhibit numerous parallels in their theological and metaphysical frameworks, drawing from a rich reservoir of orthodox and modern intellectual traditions. This dissertation contributes to a deeper understanding of their shared perspectives and the broader implications of their work in contemporary theological discourse.
Recommended Citation
Li, Jin, "Faith Seeking Understanding: A Comparative Study of Herman Bavinck and Wolfhart Pannenberg on the Doctrine of Revelation" (2024). CTS PhD Doctoral Dissertations. 66.
https://digitalcommons.calvin.edu/cts_dissertations/66
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