|
"On the factor which should unite its members, belief, it (the Church) lets its theologians say different and contradictory things. You can believe that God exists or that he is "the origin of my safety with and committedness to my fellow-man" (Braun). Jesus may have been only a man, or both God and man. You may believe that Jesus has been from eternity and came into the world by virgin birth. But you may also believe "he is the Son of God because of his conduct... in that he fears, loves and trusts God above all things" (Zahrnt). You may believe 'in' Jesus but also believe 'like' Jesus... "Belief is based on premises and is secured by them" or "is unsecured and must dispense with security" (Knevels)... Whether it is about God or the Faith, the Holy Ghost or Eternal Life, the author of St. John's gospel or the authenticity of a saying of Jesus-- there are always at least two opposing doctrines or schools... The church is schizophrenic, pulpit and professional chair remain different worlds." (Jesus und die Kirchen)
(88:2)
|