CRITICAL SYNCRETISM
What does it mean to us What does it mean to others Is it consistent with Christian faith and practice across time and place? Do points of difference with other churches matter? Do points of overlap with other religions matter? Is it indigenous to our way of life?
CRITERIA
Does it point to faith in Christ for other members of our cultural networks/ settings? Does it help embody the Gospel in our way of life? (contextualisation)
SAME
Does it help transform our way of life in the light of the Gospel? (inculturation)
Similar to Critical Contextualisation
DIFFERENT
Considerations for a Critical Syncretism Tendency to be harsh on Christian deviance, yet in critical syncretism tending to be more generous and open. One looks at commonalities, the other at differences How are these to be balanced??
Has to take account of problems of heresy and difference within the Christian tradition where small differences can have great significance and the concern is with distortion of faith and practice.
What is God like? What does fasting mean? What are spiritual temptations?
Enables theological and practical discussion / dialogue / temoignage
How should we honour God?
Works with Theology of Religion and Practical Theology
John Roxborogh,
[email protected] 17 March 2015
Critical Syncretism
Criteria for acceptability Names and considers religious elements not just those religiously neutral or perceived as compatible
Recognizes need for markers of loyalty to Jesus Christ and other Christians
Recognizes needs for boundaries in particular situations
Considers the direction to which other religious practices, terms, beliefs point
Concern with overlap
