Christianity in Evolution : An Exploration

Summary: Evolution has provided a new understanding of reality, with revolutionary consequences for Christianity. In an evolutionary perspective the incarnation involved God entering the evolving human species to help it imitate the trinitarian altruism in whose image it was created and counter its tendency to self-absorption. Primarily, however, the evolutionary achievement of Jesus was to confront and overcome death in an act of cosmic significance, ushering humanity into the culminating stage of its evolutionary destiny, the full sharing of God’s inner life. Previously such doctrines as original sin, the fall, sacrifice, and atonement stemmed from viewing death as the penalty for sin and are shown not only to have serious difficulties in themselves, but also to emerge from a Jewish culture preoccupied with sin and sacrifice that could not otherwise account for death. The death of Jesus on the cross is now seen as saving humanity, not from sin, but from individual extinction and meaninglessness. Death is now seen as a normal process that affect all living things and the religious doctrines connected with explaining it in humans are no longer required or justified. Similar evolutionary implications are explored affecting other subjects of Christian belief, including the Church, the Eucharist, priesthood, and moral behavior. Quotes:There is much here to admire, and some sections—Mahoney’s discussion of altruism; his critique of other evolutionary theologies—provide invaluable discussions. Mahoney raises again the question of how far it is necessary, or advisable, to reconstruct our theology in the light of modern science, but his work also raises questions as to how far science can aid this project. Mahoney’s passion for his work, however, is evident, which makes Christianity in Evolution a stimulating, if sometimes infuriating, read. -THEOLOGYOffers real challenges to contemporary theology, above all in demanding that theology address evolution honestly and full on. -WORSHIP MAGAZINEConversing with theology from the patristic to the modern age, Mahoney’s book is sure to be debated in the classroom as an alternative voice in contemporary theology. -ChoiceIt requires commitment and stamina, but those who summon up these qualities will be richly rewarded. For it shows, for once, Christianity looking forward in partnership with the modern world of science, rather than holding itself aloof and apart in a time warp. -Peter Stanford / The Independent UKThe kind of project that Mahoney pursues is desperately needed in theology. Let us hope that the discussion his book is likely to produce generates further detailed reflection on these pressing questions. -Reviews in Religion and TheologyA stimulating exploration, and one well worth adding to the Wish List for readers interested in the religion/science debates. -ForbesAuthor Bio: Jack Mahoney is emeritus professor of moral and social theology in the University of London and a former principal of Heythrop College, University of London. He is the author of several books, including The Making of Moral Theology: A Study of the Roman Catholic Tradition. Table of Contents:Introduction1. Accepting EvolutionCatholic Responses to EvolutionEvolution and Christian EthicsOther Theological Responses to EvolutionTheological Implications of Evolution2. Evolution, Altruism, and the Image of GodUnderstanding the Image of GodThe Evolutionary Challenge of AltruismImaging the Divine AltruismA Theology of Altruism3. The Evolutionary Achievement of JesusSaving Humanity from DeathDispensing with Original SinFinding a New ExplanationBaffling Death4. Incarnation without the FallWhat if Adam Had Not Sinned?Christ as Lord of Creation “For Our Salvation” What Kind of God?A Poor Alternative5. Seeking a New ParadigmProcess Theology and Kenotic Theology Accepting the UnavoidableMoral Evils and Human Freedom6. The Church and the Eucharist in EvolutionWho Shall Be Saved?The Evolving Church“Through Christ Our Lord”The Eucharist in Evolution The Evolutionary Community7. Theology in EvolutionEvolutionary Impact on Other Traditional BeliefsEvolutionary Ethics“Development of Doctrine”?Demythologizing DeathSaving Sacrifice?Straining FaithSumming UpBibliographyIndexes