Creatures of Possibility: The Theological Basis of Human Freedom

A Prominent Theologian Explores What It Means to Be Human
Preeminent scholar and theologian Ingolf Dalferth offers mature reflections on what it means to be human, a topic at the forefront of contemporary Christian thought. Dalferth argues that humans should be defined not as deficient beings--who must compensate for the weaknesses of their biological nature by means of technology, morals, media, religion, and culture--but as creatures of possibility. He understands human beings by reference to their capacity to live a truly humane life. Dalferth explores the sheer gratuitousness of God's agency in justifying and sanctifying the human person, defining humans not by what we do or achieve but by God's creative and saving action. In the gospel, we are set free to interact with the world and creation.
Contents
Preface to the 2016 English Edition
Preface to the 2011 German Edition
1. From Deficient Being to Beings of Possibility: An Introduction
2. Of Humanity and God: The Perspective of Reason and the Wider Perspective of Faith
3. Mere Passive: The Passivity of Gift in Luther's Theology
4. All for Nothing: On the Art of Giving and the Limitations of Gift
5. Self-Offering: From the Act of Violence to the Passion of Love
6. Becoming Human: Compensation for a Deficiency or Excess of Love?
7. Creative Passivity: The Self-Belittlement of Human Beings
Indexes