Pluralism and theology

• What is exclusivism in Christianity?

  Christianity is the only true religion.
• What does inclusivism propose about salvation?

  Non-Christians can be saved through other religions.
• What is pluralism in the context of religion?

  All religions are equally true paths to salvation.
• What is the main belief of exclusivism regarding salvation?

  Other religions cannot lead to a relationship with God.
• What do Christians believe about Jesus' sacrifice?

  It is essential for salvation.
• How does John 14:6 support exclusivism?

  It states no one comes to the Father except through Jesus.
• What does John 3:18 imply about belief in Jesus?

  Belief in Jesus is required to avoid condemnation.
• How did ancient Judaism define "believe"?

  It meant to obey, not just intellectual assent.
• What does the parable of the sheep and the goats suggest about salvation?

  Salvation is based on actions, not beliefs.
• What was Luther's view on good works?

  They are a result of genuine faith.
• How did Luther compare faith and works?

  Faith and works are like fire and heat.
• What is Augustine's view on original sin and grace?

  Grace is necessary for salvation due to original sin.
• What does election refer to in Augustine's theology?

  God's choosing to grant grace to some.
• What is double predestination according to Augustine?

  Some are predestined for heaven, others for hell.
• What was Pelagius' argument against predestination?

  It makes punishment unjust for original sin.
• How did Augustine respond to Pelagius' argument?

  Predestination is just due to original sin's consequences.
• What does Augustine mean by "secret yet just judgement of God"?

  God's justice is beyond human understanding.
• What is Karl Rahner's view on exclusivism?

  It must be rejected due to its implications.
• What are "anonymous Christians" according to Rahner?

  Non-Christians who unknowingly receive God's grace.
• What is Hick's position on those who never heard of Jesus?

  They should not be denied salvation by God.
• What is Universalism according to Hick?

  Everyone will ultimately be saved, regardless of actions.
• How does Hick view purgatory?

  It allows for moral improvement after death.
• What is the concept of proportionality in justice?

  Punishment must be proportional to the crime.
• What is Hume's argument against eternal punishment?

  It cannot be just for finite crimes.
• What did John Hick conclude about religions after his experiences?

  They are different interpretations of the same divine reality.
• What is the parable of the blind men and the elephant used to illustrate?

  Different religions perceive the same divine reality differently.
• How does Hume critique the truth claims of religions?

  Contradictory claims make it likely none are true.
• How does Hick respond to Hume's critique?

  Religions can all be right in their interpretations.
• What does Hick identify as the core of all religions?

  Opening minds to a higher divine reality.
• What is a criticism of Hick's view on the core of religions?

  He overgeneralizes about their similarities.
• What is the focus of Greek and Roman religions according to the critique?

  They are not about righteousness and love.
• How does Buddhism differ from Hick's view of a personal divine reality?

  Buddhism does not focus on a personal divine being.
• What are the key differences between exclusivism, inclusivism, and pluralism?

  • Exclusivism: Only Christianity is true.
  • Inclusivism: Christianity is true, but others can be saved.
  • Pluralism: All religions are equally valid paths to salvation.
• What are the implications of Christ being the 'truth' in Christianity?

  • Exclusivism: Only through Christ can one be saved.
  • Inclusivism: Christ is the mechanism of salvation, not the only way.
  • Pluralism: Different interpretations of truth exist.
• What are the implications of the parable of the sheep and the goats for salvation?

  • Suggests actions matter more than beliefs.
  • Challenges exclusivist views on salvation.
  • Supports inclusivism by emphasizing good deeds.
• How do Augustine and Pelagius differ in their views on original sin and predestination?

  • Augustine: Original sin necessitates grace and predestination.
  • Pelagius: Predestination is unjust; free will is essential.
• What are the main arguments for and against Universalism?

  For:

  • A loving God would save everyone.
  • Offers hope for redemption after death.

  
  

  Against:

  • Seems unjust for heinous actions.
  • Challenges traditional views of justice.
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of Hick's pluralism?

  Strengths:

  • Acknowledges diverse religious experiences.
  • Promotes interfaith dialogue.

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Overgeneralizes core beliefs.
  • Contradicts some religious doctrines.
• What are the implications of Hume's critique of religious truth claims?

  • Highlights contradictions among religions.
  • Suggests likelihood of none being true.
  • Challenges exclusivist and pluralist views.
• How does Hick's view of religions as cultural projections affect the understanding of truth?

  • Suggests truth is subjective and culturally influenced.
  • Challenges absolute claims of any single religion.
  • Promotes a more inclusive understanding of faith.