Engaging with Barth Gordon Cheng

In every essay that I have critiqued Barth’s position on something (election, revelation etc), the marker’s response was that I simply hadn’t understood Barth’s position! Compared to Barth’s planet-sized brain, I’m admittedly a little-minded man, and so I look forward to reading a expert critique of his theology ... which I can quote in future essays wink

I think the quotes you mentioned highlight some of the key areas of concern conservative evangelicals will normally have about Barth - election, atonement, scripture.
Whilst he is someone that those in ministry and theological training need to be aware of and prepared to engage, I’m often surprised that orthodox reformed folk are quick to recommend, endorse and encourage reading his work. It’s almost done in a type of pseudo intellectual pride! This is not a case of eating a chicken - ie take the meat and throw out the bones - more like negotiating a very bony fish - you’re not likely to take a single mouthful without getting a sharp and dangerous bone stuck in your throat.

Perhaps, as you mention at the end of your articule, this work will help clarify and challenge some of those who have been a little too taken, IMHO, by Barth. I look forward to the Briefing review.

Dear Gordon,

Thanks for the post. Barth is a big mind that entices left-brainers; people love him because he is intellectually stimulating. However, when it comes to (1) following the Bible and (2) giving people something for ministry in the real world, I’m still trying to figure out how he is of use.

Blessings.

Gordon,

Great post! And helpful quotes too - thanks.  Being a Moore college student who hears Barth’s name flying about from time to time, I took and up read a few books about him last year, and am reading through his Evangelical Theology at the moment.  Engaging Barth has certainly been a very helpful book indeed for getting my head around him, and I think it’s great to give this book attention in The Briefing - so thanks!

In Christ (in the Reformed, non-Barthian sense!),
Mark

The subtext of this book seems to be that Barth is a false teacher and a confuser of many. So if what people have written in it helps people to name Barth for what he is, it has served us well not just for exposing him as a fool, but for showing one way in which the study of theology can be turned to good effect.

Oh, and Mark Barry, if you submit such a comment it clearly demonstrates that you haven’t understood Barth correctly.

I am told this is a problem, but I haven’t yet seen why. If you haven’t understood a confusing person correctly, is it possible to raise the possibility that they are a confusing person?

Thanks for drawing attention to my deficient understanding Gordon wink

And what’s the deal with your tacky emoticons? They make my comments seem even dumber than they are actually are smile

They are funny little thingies aren’t they.

I haven’t worked out yet how many variations there are.

smile wink

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