Elements of Faith: An Introduction to Orthodox Theology

by Christos Yannaras

Publisher:

T&T Clark

, 2006

Overview

In Elements of Faith, Christos Yannaras introduces the Western mind to some of the distinctive features of the Orthodox tradition. Not only does he review classical theological questions, but he also analyzes the divisions between the Orthodox mind and Western ways of thinking. Often his discussions lead to vigorous but constructive challenges to Western theology. The outcome is a clearer understanding of both Orthodox and Western theology. This book encapsulates the full range of Yannaras’ best work in a lucid and accessible form.

In the Logos edition of Elements of Faith, you get easy access to Scripture texts and to a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Hovering over Scripture references links you instantly to the verse you’re looking for, and with Logos’ advanced features, you can delve into your study like never before.

Key Features

• Provides an introduction to Orthodox theology
• Analyzes the foundational ecclesial differences within Christianity

Contents

• “Positive” Knowledge and Metaphysics
• The Problem of God
• Faith
• Apophatic Knowledge
• God as Trinity
• The World
• Man
• Jesus Christ
• The Church
• Orthodoxy

Top Highlights

“If you believe in God, you do not do so because some theoretical principles suggest this belief to you or some foundational institution guarantees his existence. You believe him because his person, the personal existence of God, gives birth to your trust. His works and his historical ‘activity’, his interventions within history, make you want a relationship with him.” (Page 12)

“In the context of the Judaeo-Christian tradition, ‘faith’ functions as it does in business and in the market-place. Here the object of faith is not abstract ideas which derive their validity from some infallible authority. The object of faith is specific persons you are called upon to trust in the context of an immediate experiential relationship.” (Page 12)

“The divine Name is not a noun which would classify God among beings, nor an adjective which would attribute a characteristic feature. It is a verb, it is the echo on the lips of people of the Word by which God defines himself as existent, as the only pre-eminent existent.” (Page 31)

“He is a Trinity of hypostases, three Persons with absolute existential difference, but as well a community of essence, will and activity.” (Page 20)

“It is an anthropocentric religiosity: it wishes to assure and to safeguard man in his weakness, to silence his fears” (Page 5)

Product Details

• Title: Elements of Faith: An Introduction to Orthodox Theology
• Author: Christos Yannaras
• Translator: Keith Schram
• Publisher: T&T Clark
• Publication Date: 2000
• Pages: 182

About Christos Yannaras

Christos Yannaras is an important Greek philosopher and writer of more than 50 books, translated into many languages.