Reason and Theology Show – REASON & THEOLOGY
Lutherans and Orthodox Team Up in Join Statement
Aug 2, 2024
Michael Lofton, a theologian and expert on Christian ecumenism, dives into the recent joint statement between the Lutheran World Federation and Orthodox Churches regarding the filioque controversy. He discusses the historical context and differing interpretations of the Holy Spirit's procession. Lofton explores the complexities within Eastern Orthodoxy and Lutheranism, scrutinizing the significance and impact of ecumenical dialogue in resolving age-old divisions. The podcast provides a thought-provoking analysis of the challenges faced in achieving genuine theological engagement.
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Quick takeaways
- The joint statement between Lutherans and Orthodox represents a significant step toward dialogue on the contentious Filioque doctrine despite varying interpretations within Orthodoxy.
- The absence of a unified Orthodox authority complicates consensus-building efforts, highlighting the intricate nature of theological agreements among diverse church factions.
Deep dives
Joint Statement on the Filioque Issue
Lutherans and Eastern Orthodox have issued a joint statement regarding the contentious theological issue of the Filioque, which concerns the procession of the Holy Spirit. This doctrine asserts that the Holy Spirit proceeds from both the Father and the Son, a perspective long debated between Western and Eastern church traditions. Historically viewed as a church-dividing matter, the statement aims to advance dialogue between Lutherans, who have inherited this Catholic notion, and Eastern Orthodox churches, which express varied stances on the topic. The complexity of this relationship is heightened by differing opinions among Orthodox factions regarding whether the Filioque represents a temporal or eternal procession.
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