Details
- Autor(en) / Beteiligte
- Titel
- The contextuality and unity of the theology of Hans-Joachim Iwand: An introduction for North American Protestants
- Ort / Verlag
- ProQuest Dissertations & Theses
- Erscheinungsjahr
- 1997
- Quelle
- ProQuest Dissertations & Theses A&I
- Beschreibungen/Notizen
- The intention of this study is to make the legacy of Hans-Joachim Iwand accessible to the North American theological community, which to date has had little if any awareness of the contribution of this important figure to twentieth century Protestant thought. It is argued, in particular, that Iwand's concept of theologische Existenz constitutes an approach to Christian theology reminiscent of the concern for "contextuality" present in much contemporary North American theology, and therefore an historical model from which the latter may draw inspiration and insight. Iwand's theology offers itself as a relevant source for the Christian community engaged in rethinking the biblical faith. A noted modern interpreter of Luther, Iwand became an ardent advocate of peace between East and West as he struggled to renew theology and the proclamation of the church in post-War Germany. The dissertation demonstrates the manner in which this revered teacher of many present-day German theologians, including Jurgen Moltmann, lived out his confession of the faith in the midst of this century's most devastating period of Western history. The study discusses Iwand's interpretation of the developments that led to Germany's collapse and the problems of the aftermath of World War II. His thought is compared with that of a number of his contemporaries and today's scholars in both Europe and North America.