Bogoslovska smotra, Vol. 93 No. 3, 2023.
Preliminary communication
https://doi.org/10.53745/bs.93.3.9
A Faith That Induces Crises and Crises as Opportunities for Deepening Faith, Then and Now
Ivan Bodrožić
orcid.org/0000-0001-9399-9420
; Catholic Faculty of Theology, University of Split, Split, Croatia
Abstract
This article delves into the issue of religious crises, both in the past and present. The author explores the causes of these crises and how Christianity historically provided solutions. The author points out that crises of faith can disrupt the lives of individuals and communities, and there are both internal and external factors that can contribute to them. Throughout history, heresies and persecutions have been the most significant threats to faith. The article highlights the persecution of believers and the Church in the first centuries, particularly in mid-3rd century, as an example of external attacks on Christianity. The author also discusses the example of St Cyprian, the bishop of Carthage, and the impact of the persecutions on the believers’ faith. Cyprian emphasizes that, while external attacks can cause crises of faith, disunity and schism within the Church can be even more damaging. It seems that when the faith was challenged by heresy and schism, it also faced an internal threat from sin and the sinful behaviour of believers. This caused a crisis for those who were vulnerable to the temptation of sin or scandalized by sinners. The author asserts this crisis was rooted either in a devia tion from God or a complete rejection of Him, which allowed for an ungodly lifestyle. The author also suggests that these crises always originate from within, where the soul abandons its foundation in God, even if the initial impulse comes from external sources. When individuals or groups of believers lose their connection to God, they inevitably experience a crisis that can lead to spiritual death. This serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of staying connected to God and living a life that is pleasing to Him. Interestingly, while the Holy Scriptures may present faith as a path that leads to a crisis, in this case, the crisis is interpreted as a choice, a discernment, a selection, a decision, and not a rupture. Jesus used these crisis moments in his deeds and preaching, and they can also be seen throughout the Old Testament. However, it is important to understand that Jesus never intended for these crises to lead to unbelief or impiety. Rather, he aimed to build believers who had an authentic, personal, and firm faith. The author believes this same approach can be used to transcend the crisis of faith that the Church faces today. This crisis cannot be overcome simply by changing structures or renewing them. Instead, a renewal of our direct and living communion with the living God is required.
Keywords
crisis of faith; faith; Church; communion; threats to faith; heresy; sin
Hrčak ID:
311234
URI
Publication date:
12.12.2023.
Visits: 178 *