1-2. Religious Pluralism and Theology - Introduction and Exclusivism

Theological Exclusivism

The view that Christianity offers the only or exclusive means of salvation.

Inclusivism

The view that while Christianity is the normative means of salvation, 'anonymous Christians' may also receive salvation.

Pluralism

The view that there are many ways to salvation, of which Christianity is one path.

Exclusivism

The belief that only Christianity fully offers the means of salvation.

John 14

A biblical passage discussing the significance of salvation through Christ alone.

Christ as 'the way, the truth, and the life'

Signifies that salvation is exclusively through Jesus Christ according to Christian belief.

Unique knowledge about God

The belief that Christ alone provides direct knowledge of God, unlike prophets of other religions.

Christian neighbourliness

A self-sacrificial love that goes beyond mere kindness to include deep personal commitment.

Baptism

A sacrament in Christianity symbolizing the washing away of sin and necessary for salvation.

Eucharist

A rite commemorating the last supper of Jesus, instructing Christians to remember Him.

Five Pillars of Islam

The basic acts of worship in Islam: Profession of faith, prayer, almsgiving, fasting, pilgrimage.

Great Commandment

To love God with all one's heart, soul, and mind and to love one's neighbor as oneself.

Inter-faith dialogue issues

Potential challenges arising from exclusivist views in discussions between different faiths.

Jesus as 'the truth'

Refers to Jesus' claim in John 14:6, asserting that He embodies truth itself.

Revelation in Christianity

The belief that Jesus reveals the nature and character of God to humanity.

Absolute Truth

The concept that truth is unchanging and universal, as opposed to relative truth.

Truth in Christian ethics

The significance of adhering to truthfulness as a reflection of Jesus' teachings.

Truth and Salvation

The notion that recognizing and accepting Jesus as the truth leads to salvation in Christian belief.

Faith in Jesus as the truth

A foundational element of Christianity where faith in Jesus is considered essential for understanding divine truth.

Jesus as 'the way'

Indicates that Jesus is the only path to salvation and relationship with God, as claimed in John 14:6.

Salvation through Jesus

The belief that accepting Jesus as Savior is essential for eternal life in Christian theology.

Role of faith in Jesus

Faith in Jesus is emphasized as critical for understanding and receiving God's salvation.

Biblical basis for Jesus as 'the way'

John 14:6 where Jesus states, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through me.'

Christian doctrine of salvation

The core belief in Christianity that salvation is achieved through faith in Jesus Christ alone.

Significance of Jesus' teachings

Jesus' teachings provide guidelines for living a life aligned with God's will and achieving spiritual fulfillment.

Jesus as 'the life'

Indicates that Jesus is the source of eternal life and spiritual vitality according to Christian belief.

Eternal life in Christianity

The belief that faith in Jesus grants believers everlasting life in communion with God.

Role of Jesus' resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is central to Christian belief, affirming His power over death and promise of eternal life.

Abundant life

The concept in Christianity that a relationship with Jesus leads to a fulfilling and enriched life.

Jesus' teachings on life

Jesus emphasized the importance of spiritual life through love, compassion, and adherence to God's will.

Salvation and life in Christ

The understanding that salvation brings new life and transformation in believers through Christ.