Reformed Forum Leonardo De Chirico | Engaging with Thomas Aquinas
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Apr 18, 2025 Leonardo De Chirico, an Italian theologian and pastor, dives into the legacy of Thomas Aquinas, exploring his profound impact on Roman Catholic thought. He discusses the dual nature of the Catholic Church and the evolving role of Thomism post-Vatican II. The conversation highlights the necessity for evangelicals to engage critically but charitably with Aquinas's works while prioritizing Scripture. De Chirico shares insights on how recent trends in Catholicism affect Protestant interactions, advocating for a measured and biblically grounded approach to this historical figure.
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Dynamic Tension in Catholicism
- Roman Catholicism exhibits a dynamic tension of change and continuity, described as "always changing but never changing."
- This dual nature resists simplistic categories like progressive versus traditionalist, requiring nuanced understanding.
Contested Vatican II Interpretation
- Vatican II's interpretation remains contested between views of continuity and modernization in Catholicism.
- Catholicism seeks to update while preserving identity, unlike liberalism which discards tradition.
Enduring Influence of Aquinas
- Thomas Aquinas has been central to Catholic theology since the 14th century, used apologetically and constructively.
- His Summa Theologiae remains the dominant theological textbook for centuries within Catholicism.