Barth and Rahner in Dialogue: Toward an Ecumenical Understanding of Sin and Evil

by Ron Highfield

This illuminating study of the doctrine of sin compares the thought of two of the most influential thinkers of our time, the Reformed theologian, Karl Barth (1886-1968), and the Roman Catholic theologian, Karl Rahner (1904-1984). The author succeeds in balancing scientific rigor with ecumenical sensitivity in his effort to discover areas of real convergence between Barth and Rahner. Uncovering hitherto hidden congruity, Dr. Highfield proposes a way for Roman Catholics and Protestants to recognize their fundamental agreement on the doctrine of sin.

187 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1989

About the author

I am Professor of Religion at Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA. I teach classes in Christian theology and Christianity and Culture. I write short, popular essays on theological topics on my blog ifaqtheology.wordpress.com (infrequently asked questions in theology). I enjoy running and hiking. And though my thought lies on the opposite end of the spectrum from pantheist Benedict Spinoza we may have one quality in common. Novalis, the German romantic poet called Spinoza “der Gottbetrunkene Mensch,” that is, “the God-intoxicated man.” If you read any of my books you will pick up on this passion (obsession) for God and my passion for others to become as passionate as I am about God. I love teaching, and I view my books as a way to extend my reach as a teacher.