It was Robert Brow and Clark Pinnock who first introduced me to "models in theology" (in their provocative book, Unbounded Love). This is basically the idea that theology can be influenced and shaped by various pre-theological themes or motifs. These coagulate to form the grid or paradigm - i.e. the model - which inevtiably determine one's understanding of :
Model-oriented theology converges nicely with virtue ethics and narrative theology in the sense of providing a context and framework for grasping the nitty-gritty happenings within. A model pre-defines what a 'good' is, thereby setting out the roles of the various players, judging/evaluating their acts/ideas/beliefs/projects to the aims of the model.
I thought it might be worthwhile thinking through the models we've traditionally adopted plus some fresh models. I hope it helps to mine each model for helpful perspectives and insights into the nature of the Christian faith and get some needed reminders/innovations/warnings about how to live and think as God would like us to.
Traditional Models
New Models
-
Classroom?
-
Tree / Garden / Ecology?
-
Laboratory / Studio?
-
Internet / Computer?
-
Drama / Story?
- Factory / Office?
Caveat: These models are not mutually exclusive and overlaps occur often. Nevertheless, there is usually a strong discernible difference in emphasis among adopts of varying models (ever notice how Reformed-inclined Christians and non-Reformed ones tend to focus on different topics most of the time?). Also, I'm well aware that there are culturally differences within a particular model as well (e.g. Eastern and Western notions of love - but hey let's not open that can of worms just yet, eh?!).
Let's see how far we can take this...beginning with the courtroom model...(forthcoming)
Posted at 02:27 pm by alwynlau
