A Theology of History by Hans Urs von Balthasar, 148 pages
In this short book, noted theologian Hans Urs von Balthasar reflects on the meaning of history from a Christian perspective. His concern is not with particulars - not with the meaning of specific events - but with universals - what is the meaning of history as history?
Just as Augustine located the meaning of time as the arena of man's freedom, von Balthasar locates its meaning in the obedience of the Son to the Father, Christ acting as the norm in this as in all things, both Source and Fulfillment of history. If it is true that without the Fall, there would have been no Crucifixion, it is equally true that without the Crucifixion there could not have been a Fall - only the means of redemption makes the possibility of sin - and therefore free will - consistent with God's love. Indeed, time as the necessary precondition for free will is created by the act of Christ's self-emptying giving of Himself, the free divine surrender of control.
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