From the Revd Richard Tetlow
Sir, - An agreed statement of Christology was recently signed by
the two chairs of the International Dialogue between the Anglican
Communion and the Oriental Orthodox Churches. Achievement of unity
is to be profoundly welcomed. I only hope that this may now lead
not to closure, but to open and honest debate about its substance
and meaning.
Bishop John Saxbee's review (Books, 7 November) of Canon
Andrew Shanks's latest work on Hegel refers to Canon Shanks's
preference for Hegel's "truth-as-openness" rather than
"truth-as-correctness".
What has been agreed is quoted by Bishop Geoffrey Rowell (Comment, 14 November):
"Jesus Christ . . . is fully human . . . but equally . . . one in
whom 'the fullness of the Godhead dwells'." The agreement
"recognises the limits of all theological language", and continues:
"we are unable to net and confine the mystery of God's utter
self-giving in the incarnation in . . . the mysterious union of
divinity and humanity."
I accept that for many such theology is fundamentally what
Christianity is, even taking priority over following Jesus as "the
Way". Nevertheless, it leaves me cold, unconvinced, and yet ready
and set for inspiring discussion. I know I am not alone.
RICHARD TETLOW
26 Sovereign Way
Birmingham B13 8AT