David Bentley Hart, an accomplished philosopher and religious scholar, engages in a compelling discussion that spans Orthodox Christianity's unique views on millenarianism and the distinctions from Catholicism. He explores the balance of faith and reason, delves into near-death experiences, and critiques the Book of Mormon compared to early Christian accounts. Hart also shares insights on language learning, revealing his mastery of over 15 languages, and reflects on the interplay of religion and politics in contemporary society.
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insights INSIGHT
Orthodox Christianity vs. Millenarianism
Orthodox Christianity emphasizes a continuous present, expecting an interruption of history but valuing patience.
This contrasts with Protestant millenarianism, often born from historical crises and focused on a new age.
insights INSIGHT
Theological Patience and Politics
Theological patience in Orthodoxy has a mixed legacy, fostering spiritual life but also accommodating harmful forces.
At its worst, it can make the church a tool of the state, as seen in Russia's current political climate.
insights INSIGHT
Heidegger and Orthodoxy
Heidegger's philosophy, despite his flaws, explores how Western thought arrived at nihilism, valuing power over being.
This resonates with Hart's attraction to Orthodoxy, which emphasizes cosmic mystery and deification, counter to a desacralized world.
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The Book of Mormon is a scripture that tells the story of a group of Hebrews who migrated from Jerusalem to the Americas around 600 BCE. It describes their history, including their division into two main groups: the Nephites and the Lamanites. The book emphasizes the appearance of Jesus Christ to these people after his resurrection, where he teaches them and establishes his church. It also discusses various doctrinal topics such as the fall of Adam and Eve, the nature of God, baptism, and the importance of faith and repentance. The book ends with Moroni's testimony and an invitation to readers to come unto Christ and be perfected in him[1][3][5].
The New Testament
A Student's Introduction
Harris, Stephen L.
This book provides a thorough and accessible introduction to the New Testament, covering its historical background, literary characteristics, and theological themes. It is tailored for students and includes detailed explanations and analyses to facilitate a deeper understanding of the New Testament texts.
That All Shall Be Saved
David Bentley Hart
David Bentley Hart's "That All Shall Be Saved" is a profound exploration of universal salvation in Christian theology. Hart challenges traditional interpretations of hell and divine justice, arguing for a more inclusive vision of God's ultimate purpose. The book delves into the complexities of divine love, human freedom, and the nature of evil. Hart's work is characterized by its rigorous philosophical analysis and its passionate engagement with the central mysteries of faith. It is a significant contribution to contemporary theological discourse, sparking debate and inspiring further reflection on the nature of salvation.
David Bentley Hart is an American writer, philosopher, religious scholar, critic, and theologian who has authored over 1,000 essays and 19 books, including a very well-known translation of the New Testament and several volumes of fiction.
In this conversation, Tyler and David discuss ways in which Orthodox Christianity is not so millenarian, how theological patience shapes the polities of Orthodox Christian nations, how Heidegger deepened his understanding of Christian Orthodoxy, who played left field for the Baltimore Orioles in 1970, the simplest way to explain how Orthodoxy diverges from Catholicism, the future of the American Orthodox Church, what he thinks of the Book of Mormon, whether theological arguments are ultimately based on reason or faith, what he makes of reincarnation and near-death experiences, gnosticism in movies and TV, why he dislikes Sarah Ruden’s translation of the New Testament, the most difficult word to translate, a tally of the 15+ languages he knows, what he’ll work on next, and more.
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