Political-ecclesiological perspectives on human dignity and conflict management

Abstract

This thesis addresses the role that ecclesiology and Christian anthropology should play in fulfilling the Christological expectation of breaking down walls of racial and ethnic differences, nationalism and tribalism and reconciling the world as one human family. While the title suggests a broader scope for resolving conflict and the social harms of estrangement, this thesis does not seek to address comprehensively, the myriad causes of conflict. A much narrower focus on the role of conflict through the perspective of racial disparity is given. In this sense, this research may serve as a case study for resolving other complicated conflicts that interfere with humanity’s harmonious existence. For several centuries through the Transatlantic Slave Trade, colonialism, apartheid and militant Zionism, the cause of Christ has been misrepresented, manipulated and abused by a pseudo-Christianity centered around European cultural identity and domination. Although many of these ills have been lessened over the last half century, the aftereffects remain. European pseudo-Christianity and its tendency to dehumanize and exploit other ethnic groups and races of people continues. The ecclesiological assumption that Europeans have been divinely destined to evangelize, civilize and democratize the world for Christ is indeed antichrist at its core. Furthermore, Christianity, and/or a belief in a supreme creator existed in other lands, such as Palestine, Africa and Asia, before the arrival of European traders. These communities were not godless and barbaric as the stereotype suggests, but rather made significant educational, cultural and theological contributions to the world. Additionally, true Christian anthropology suggests that all races, tribes and ethnic groups bear the image of God and have equal value and dignity under Christ. Most would admit this on a basic level, but the more this is explored and celebrated, the sooner a reconciled community of human familyhood can emerge. Analyzing this reality, requires that theologians examine the ways in which dignity has been denied across the centuries, and seek to correct them. A Christian theology of love, reconciliation, and human dignity is an urgent need, in contradistinction to a theology of domination, conquest and economic Darwinism (survival of the strongest). It should also be noted that whenever this thesis challenges or criticizes Christian theologians, this is referring to the mainstream Christian Evangelical voices within the American context, who are privileged with proximity to the corridors of power. This critique does not include liberation theologians, nor church based civil rights leaders, who should be commended for their efforts. While Eurocentric theology has created many rifts and chasms among nations and races, there is hope for the Christian message. This hope lies in the expectation that alternative voices will eventually gain a wider audience and that the younger generation of evangelicals will sympathize more closely with the issues of human rights. These alternative voices should be given close attention by mainstream Christian theologians, clergy, and political leaders. Those Christian theologians and clergy who have lived experiences within marginalized communities should be given a larger platform in the ecclesiological and political realm. They are uniquely capable of leading the world to reconciliation and reparation. However, Christian leaders and theologians who presently have seats at the tables of power, are challenged to utilize their influence to end oppression, war and conflict rather than further imperialistic goals. One might suggest that the world’s great powers, in most cases are not at war with weaker nations, or that those at the top of the social hierarchy are not at war with those at the bottom. The question may be asked, “Where is the conflict?” The absence of war through missiles, tanks and grenades does not necessarily mean that conflict is non-existent. This thesis advances the perspective that colonization, exploitation, xenophobia, police brutality and generational theft are as equally destructive, hostile and adversarial in nature toward vulnerable population groups as strategic warfare. Disregard for human life and dignity to further the aims of the powerful is tantamount to being victimized militarily. For example, children going hungry due to economic exploitation, or developing life-altering disease through lead poisoned water due to discrimination has the same impact as violence being committed against them. The Palestinian and Israeli conflict, and a militarized police state in the U.S., would be a literal example of how militarism is exercised in these cases. These experiences have become a counterproductive hindrance to social harmony and the overall advancement of the wider community. There are many challenges facing the globe and humanity. It is extremely urgent that a theology of reconciliation be advanced for the good of all.