Sola scriptura : Benedict XVI's theology of the Word of God

Abstract

This dissertation explores the feasibility of an ecumenical joint statement on the sola scriptura principle. Through study of the crucial elements of this principle (the nature and the scope of the authority of the Word of God, the nature of the relationship between revelation, tradition and the Holy Scriptures, and biblical hermeneutics) this work attempts to create a possible basis for an ecumenical dialogue between Protestant/Evangelical and Catholic theology. It defines and evaluates the sola scriptura principle in the Protestant Reformation (Martin Luther and John Calvin specifically), contemporary Evangelical theology, traditional Catholic theology and post–Vatican II progressive Catholic theology, with special emphasis on the theology of Joseph Ratzinger (Benedict XVI) with regard to the Word of God. Apart from the current biblical dialogue on sola scriptura between Evangelicals and Catholics, based on identifiable presuppositions, this research also offers a unique list of indispensable requirements for redrawing the emphasis in the theology of Scripture, for both Evangelical and Catholic communities of faith, in order to create a viable ecumenical joint statement. Evangelicals have to become more aware of the role and authority of the community of faith as a “deeper author” in the origin, preservation and interpretation of Scripture, while Catholics must recognize that tradition(s) and authoritative interpretations of the magisterium are subject to the scrutiny of the Word of God/Holy Scripture as norma normans of ecclesial tradition. Based on these assumptions the research finally offers an ecumenical joint statement that transcends both traditional and some progressive formulas of sola scriptura.