Douglas Ottati, a distinguished professor in Reformed Theology and Justice Ministry at Davidson College, returns to discuss the need for a liberal theology today. He shares his journey into becoming a Presbyterian liberal theologian and emphasizes the significance of engaging with personal and communal religious experiences. Ottati explores the relationship between liberal theology and historical figures, the implications of the doctrine of creation in light of modern science, and how one's faith can guide active community engagement as a 'resident alien'.
Douglas Ottati discusses how his upbringing and engagement with social issues shaped his understanding of liberal theology, emphasizing its relevance in modern contexts.
He argues that liberal theology is a constructive approach that critically engages with both tradition and contemporary moral concerns, bridging faith and social justice.
Ottati highlights the importance of revitalizing worship practices to enhance theological literacy and foster a vital faith in liberal Protestant communities.
Deep dives
Douglas Otati's Journey into Liberal Theology
Douglas Otati shares his personal journey into liberal systematic theology, tracing back to his family's Presbyterian conversion when he was a child. Growing up in a household that engaged with theological discussions, he developed a passion for understanding the role of religion during times of social upheaval, such as the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War. Inspired by figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Otati saw the potential for religious teachings to intertwine meaning and social justice. This led him to appreciate the liberal understanding of tradition, viewing it as a relevant guide for contemporary moral engagement.
The Importance of Theological Positioning
Otati locates his theological stance through an identification with being Augustinian, Protestant, and liberal. He underscores that a liberal theology cannot exist in isolation but must draw from a broader tradition, which in his case includes a critical engagement with Protestantism. He explains that this positioning allows for a critical approach to church authority and tradition, aligning faith with contemporary moral issues while maintaining a connection to the source of biblical teachings. This framework provides a foundation for addressing the challenges of modern theological discourse amid diverse Christian identities.
Redefining Liberal Theology
Otati emphasizes that liberal theology is not merely a rejection of traditional views but a constructive approach that engages with modern science and ethics. He posits that theology must acknowledge the changing nature of society and human understanding while remaining rooted in historical traditions and scriptural insights. By doing so, he argues that liberal theology can offer valuable insights into the complexities of faith, creation, and human experience in a rapidly evolving world. His perspective highlights the necessity of adapting theological language to encompass both contemporary issues and ancient wisdom.
Understanding Religious Experience
Otati argues that liberal theology must address the relationship between human experience and the divine context of religious traditions. He delineates that essential aspects of human experience—such as emotions, gratitude, and spirituality—form the backdrop for understanding religion and its implications. This leads him to explore how humans can engage with their traditions critically while anchoring their worship and communal practices in meaningful experiences. The integration of experience and tradition is crucial for developing a robust theological identity and engaging thoughtfully with the world.
Ecological Consciousness and Worldly Faithfulness
Otati articulates a vision of faith that encompasses ecological responsibilities within a broader commitment to justice. He claims that the Reformed tradition emphasizes a worldly faithfulness that goes beyond individual spirituality to include a collective responsibility for creation. This perspective invites liberal theologians to engage in pressing socio-political issues while recognizing that God’s presence permeates all aspects of the world. By advocating for a deep commitment to ecological care and justice, Otati demonstrates that a theologically informed conscience can promote a holistic and engaged form of worship.
The role of Worship in Liberal Protestantism
Otati asserts that worship is central to fostering theological literacy among liberal Protestants, proposing that meaningful communal experiences are necessary for engaging in theological discourse effectively. He critiques the tendency of some liberal congregations to neglect the theological richness of their traditions in favor of activism alone. Instead, he advocates for revitalizing worship practices to reinforce the connection between theological understanding and lived experiences of faith. By doing this, Otati believes that liberal Protestant communities can cultivate a vital faith that resonates deeply with contemporary moral challenges and fosters a profound sense of divine presence.
Why write a liberal theology? That's a good question & we got an interview size answer! Buckle your theological safety belt because this episode is going to get seriously awesome. If you remember Dr. Ottati's last visit to the podcast then you are already excited! Professor Ottati is the Craig Family Distinguished Professor in Reformed Theology and Justice Ministry at Davidson College in North Carolina. He is one of the best communicators I know. Not only is he a top-notch nerd but he has a strong love for the church and bringing theological goodness into local congregations.
PS. Ottati rocks the name game with a level of skill that rivals Jurgen Moltmann's fun with Tony Jones and I.
