1/23 Religion Lecture

Introduction to Paul Tillich

  • Paul Tillich (1886-1965) was a German theologian and philosopher who deeply contemplated the concept of faith.

  • His unique approach involves defining what faith is not, encouraging readers to think independently.

Faith in Tillich's Perspective

  • Faith is not knowledge:

    • Knowledge is based on what we know or understand.

    • Faith transcends mere knowledge; it is a deeper commitment beyond intellectual understanding.

Background Context

  • Historical Events Influencing Tillich:

    • Lived during significant historical turmoil, specifically World War II and the Holocaust.

    • These events shaped his theological reflections and criticism towards societal complacency.

The Church under Nazism

  • During Nazi rule, there was widespread complicity among Christian churches in Germany:

    • Many church leaders supported the Nazi regime, diluting core Christian values for power.

    • The church's capitulation is viewed as a failure of moral and ethical standards.

    • A minority, known as the Confessing Church, resisted. They explicitly stated that Jesus is Lord, not Hitler.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Example

  • Bonhoeffer was a key figure opposing the Nazi regime:

    • He believed faith required action against injustice.

    • Advocated that being a true Christian involves supporting the oppressed and not remaining complicit.

    • His famous quote about taking action reflects his desire for moral responsibility amidst tyranny.

    • Bonhoeffer’s execution on April 9, 1945, solidifies his stance on faith through sacrifice and service.

Critique of Traditional Theism

  • Tillich critiques traditional theism which often views God as powerful and all-knowing:

    • The flaw of this perspective is the eventual portrayal of God as a tyrant if aligned with authoritarian figures like Hitler.

    • This creates a dichotomy where God is seen as distant or as an arbitrary ruler.

  • Dichotomy of Subject and Object:

    • If God is the subject (powerful), humans become the object (powerless), leading to fear without the guarantee of divine love.

    • Inverting this sees humans as subjects defining God in human terms, raising questions about authenticity.

Concept of Faith in Tillich's Work

  • Definition of Faith:

    • Tillich describes faith as the state of being ultimately concerned

    • Ultimate concern demands total dedication and personal sacrifice.

  • Characteristics of Ultimate Concern:

    1. Claims ultimacy - being the most important thing.

    2. Demands total surrender - nothing can be half-hearted.

    3. Promises total fulfillment - offers complete satisfaction to one’s deepest needs.

Implications of Faith

  • Faith is not limited to a theistic framework; it's present in anyone with an ultimate concern, regardless of the object of faith.

  • Faith entails a centered act, involving the whole individual – intellect, emotion, and will.

Conclusion

  • Tillich’s treatment of faith encourages deep reflection on personal beliefs and actions in relation to broader societal values, especially amid moral crises.

  • This exploration reveals a profound understanding of commitment that transcends surface-level beliefs, urging a holistic approach to living out one's faith.