In the early 1970s, theology of hope emerged as a new field in theological studies (Escobar, 2003). Two Germans who were attempting to understand theology from an interpretive point of view are considered the founders of this dogma. Since then, several Christian leaders have adopted and championed the dogma.
According to these leaders, human beings exist because of hope. Similarly, those who believe in the dogma believe that hope transforms the world and humanity. Through these teachings, a believer should believe that God’s pledges are in the process of being fulfilled. In general, believing in hope means that we should anticipate what God promised to do in the Bible.
Based on the founders of the dogma, theology of hope analyses eschatology from the resurrection of the Messiah onwards rather from the creation of the universe (Escobar, 2003). In theological studies, Moltmann and Pannenberg are acknowledged for their contribution in the theology of hope. This article compares and contrasts Moltmann and Pannenberg’s findings on theology of hope.
Jurgen Moltmann is one of the individuals behind the emergence of theology of hope. Moltmann earlier experiences changed his life entirely. As a young boy, Moltmann was determined to study physics and mathematics. However, the effects of the World War II convinced him to study theology. According to his writings, God is understood from the future perspective rather than from a historical perspective (Escobar, 2003).
Moltmann argues that through this approach man should realize that the future offers limitless possibilities and not the past. In addition, Moltmann argues that the theology of hope encourages individuals to be actively involved in the present occurrences and issues rather than waiting passionately for the final consummation.
Another great contributor of theology of hope is Wolfhart Pannenberg. Pannenberg’s earlier life experiences shaped his life. Just like Moltmann, Pannenberg approaches theology from an interpretive point of view. Pannenberg writings emphasize on hope and faith. His theology has apologetic flavour and explains Christian doctrines with the goal of showing the truth of the Christian conception of God (Grenz & Olson, 1992).
A close study of their contributions in the theology of hope reveals that the two developed their doctrines without adhering to the Biblical models. The two leaders’ teachings on the understanding of evil and suffering encourage Christians to believe that there is hope for the future (Grenz & Olson, 1992).
Based on their teachings, Christians should not accept to suffer silently. Instead, they should protest the suffering while hoping for the best. The two leaders believe that Jesus Christ suffered, died, and resurrected. Therefore, Christ’s resurrection should be a clear indication to Christians that they will overcome all the challenges and make it to the kingdom of God. Through this concept, Christians have every reason to hope for the best in the future.
One major difference between the two scholars is that Pannenberg illustrates the understanding of God from a traditional perspective, while Moltmann illustrates his understandings from an atheist’s point of view (Grenz & Olson, 1992).
Though the two believe in the potentials of the future over the past and the present, their understandings of the topic differ. For instance, Moltmann believes that the future will transform human beings in a revolutionary way. On the contrary, Pannenberg believes that the tomorrow’s potentials are tied to today’s occurrences.
References
Escobar, S. (2003). The new global mission: the Gospel from everywhere to everyone. Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press.
Grenz, S. J., & Olson, R. E. (1992). 20th Century theology: God & the world in a transitional age . Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press.