Christian Theology

Cardinal Ratzinger presents a lucid summary of the central theological issues arising out of the covenant shared by Jews and Christians. Insisting that the Abrahamic and Chrisitian covenants represent a single movement of God in his work of reconciliation, Ratzinger shows how the work of Christ is a fulfillment of God's promise announced in the covenant with Abraham. Ratzinger recognizes that for this blessing to be realized, priority must be given to the relationship between Jews and Christians. Until Christians recognize their fundamental kinship with Judaism and Jews, and until that recognition leads to reconciliation between them, the proclamation of God's reconciling work in the world will be truncated and compromised. The often tragic misunderstandings in Chrisitian Jewish relationships raise very specific difficulties, especially for Jews, and Christians have a major responsibility to address those difficulties. Ratzinger's presentation should be read by Christians, Jews and others for the clear and consise scriptural and theological perspective it offers. (Review by Jim Woods). more...