Homebrewed Christianity

Travis McMaken: Karl Barth & The Incarnation

7 snips
Dec 9, 2024
Travis McMaken, the Butler Bible Endowed Professor of Religion, dives into the thought-provoking theology of Karl Barth, the original crisis theologian. They explore Barth's reaction to World War I and the evolution of his ideas on incarnation and revelation. Discussing the relevance of Barth's insights for contemporary challenges, they tackle the interplay of faith and power, critiques of cultural captivity, and the transformative essence of the gospel. The conversation highlights how the incarnation remains significant for believers today, underscoring a deep, ongoing relationship with God.
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ANECDOTE

Barth's Pastoral Work

  • Barth's pastoral work in Safenwil exposed him to the exploitative nature of early industrial capitalism.
  • This experience shaped his theological perspective and led him to clash with factory owners.
INSIGHT

The Need for a Break

  • Barth, like other crisis theologians, felt a need to break from prior theologies and political thought.
  • World War I shattered German idealism and trust in institutions, similar to how 9/11 impacted America.
INSIGHT

Parallels Between WWI and Today

  • The crisis of World War I mirrored current crises of national identity, economic instability, and theological uncertainty.
  • Barth's theology offers a relevant response to these challenges by separating the gospel from cultural assumptions.
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