Emergence as a challenge to the legacy of Christian dogmatics

Abstract

In this article, the tension between the notions of emergence and Christian dogmatics is discussed. Christian dogmatics serves the function of grounding the Christian faith in its historic identity, guarding against the development of heresy and the faith’s departure from its core values. The Christian faith nevertheless does not exist as a constant, immovable and unchanging in light of the influences of history, context and discovery. In order for the Christian faith to remain relevant in the world within which it exists, it needs to be flexible and adapt to new developments in understanding. The tension between historic identity (and beliefs) and relevance (and growth) is essential for the Christian faith to be recognised as a legitimate entity which holds to its core beliefs with integrity while being open to change when it is faced with new realities.