Explorations in Theology, Vol. 4

Download or read book Explorations in Theology, Vol. 4 written by Hans Urs von Balthasar and published by Ignatius Press. This book was released on 1995-01-01 with total page 528 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The fourth volume in von Balthasar's essays is built around the theme of Spirit and Institution, the two central features of the Church which Balthasar approaches from different angles. The third volume is built around the theme of the Holy Spirit as the Creator Spirit. The first volume was constructed around the mid-point of the Word become man, and the second volume around the Church which becomes configured to him. The first part of the book looks at who man is, and then examines the distinctively Christian experience of God. Part two is a whole section on the Church which includes topics like celibacy and the priesthood today, how we should love the Church, and understanding Christian mysticism. The third and final part is an eschatology in which Balthasar gives a brilliant summary of heaven, hell and purgatory.