Elizabeth Johnson on Infinite Mystery and the Diverse Doxology of God
Sep 13, 2016
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Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, a living legend in Catholic theology, joins to explore existential questions about the divine. She discusses how influential thinkers like Pannenberg and Barth shaped her perspective. The conversation dives into the concept of God as an 'infinite mystery,' emphasizing the importance of personal experience and diverse theological voices. Johnson addresses the emotional toll of grappling with God's presence in suffering, advocating for a theology that intertwines love, pain, and ecological awareness.
Elizabeth Johnson redefines God as an infinite mystery, encouraging believers to transcend simplistic, traditional representations of the divine.
Her approach to theology emphasizes the importance of lived experiences and diverse voices, particularly those from marginalized communities, in shaping faith.
Johnson advocates for ecological responsibility by viewing divine presence as interwoven with the universe, promoting ethical stewardship of the environment.
Deep dives
Elizabeth Johnson's Theological Approach
Elizabeth Johnson emphasizes that the concept of God should be viewed as an infinite mystery rather than a specific individual or a masculine figure. She argues that traditional language surrounding God often risks literalizing this mystery, leading to a limited understanding. By exploring God as the 'source of all being' and a loving presence, she invites believers to engage with the divine beyond simplistic representations. This perspective encourages individuals to contemplate their relationship with a greater power, fostering a richer spiritual experience.
The Role of Experience in Theology
Johnson reflects on her early experiences as a theology student and how they shaped her approach to feminist and ecological theology. She stresses the importance of listening to diverse voices and experiences, particularly those from women and marginalized communities, in forming theological understanding. By employing a method she calls the 'can I breathe' criterion, she evaluates theological ideas based on their ability to resonate with human experience. This approach encourages the incorporation of lived experiences into theological discourse, enriching the conversation surrounding faith.
Interconnectedness of Creation and Theology
In her work, Johnson draws connections between ecological concerns and theological discussions, highlighting humanity's responsibility toward creation. She argues that the divine presence is interwoven within the entire universe, urging a recognition of the spirit of God in the natural world. This perspective transforms the dialogue around God from a distant, controlling figure to an engaged essence that invites collaboration with creation. By fostering an understanding of God as a nurturing force, she promotes ethical stewardship of the environment.
The Challenges of Prophetic Theology
Johnson discusses the inherent risks involved in engaging with theology that challenges societal norms and addresses injustices. She acknowledges that being a prophetic voice often invites criticism, especially when addressing traditional power structures such as patriarchy within religious contexts. Despite such challenges, she finds solace in supportive communities and the encouraging feedback from readers. Moreover, she recognizes the existential dangers that come with confronting profound suffering and injustice, highlighting the importance of maintaining hope and resilience in theological reflection.
The Future of Theological Inquiry
As Johnson looks to the future of her work, she expresses a desire to further explore the intersection of ecological theology and Christology. She aims to reinterpret traditional beliefs about the cross in light of ecological realities, seeking a holistic understanding of redemption. Additionally, she is interested in developing a theology that emerges from experiences of love and commitment in marriage. This evolving landscape of theology, characterized by dynamic voices and diverse experiences, signals a promising path for deeper engagement and social relevance in contemporary faith discussions.
Living legend Dr. Elizabeth Johnson is on the podcast (for the third time) to help us understand what we are talking about when we talk about God. This tag team interview with Tripp and Scott MacDougall is a Trinitarian treat of Catholic theological brilliance.