daved@uunet.uu.net (508-392-2990) (09/27/89)
While I am intrigued by the enthusiasm shown in ceb's article, the
predictions therein seem unlikely to come about, in view of 'history'.
However, the Greek Fathers are a fascinating, underutilized (and to
Nicene eyes) mostly orthodox set of writers. They developed a
theological language for mysticism that rewards further study.
They also have something to say in the Christian - Buddhist dialogue.
To cite an example, the Cappadocians ( Gregory of Nyssa,
Gregory Nazianzus, and Basil {they were related} )
developed the apophactic theology later used by Maximus the Confessor
(he wrote in Latin, I think) Pseudo-Dionysius and Eriugena.
The gist of apophactic theology (ask Brother Siemon for the import
of the Greek term, which I hope I have spelled correctly) is to
point out that God, since He is unique, may perhaps be well
talked about negatively - for instance, God is
(said to be) Love, but He is not Love - not
*intrinsically* like any love restricted to earth, not exactly
like any other love humans can encounter. Gregory of Nyssa was
(sometimes) a universalist (affirming that everyone would be saved;
or at least, that no one would be damned).
Good modern treatments of Greek theology that I have read are the
books by John Meyendorff (I *think* that's spelled right);
'The Orthodox Church' and 'Christ in Byzantine Theology'.
I would be very interested to hear from some of the more Protestant
participants in this newsgroup about their response to Eastern
Orthodox liturgy, theology, and practice. I would also like to
hear something from the Roman Catholic side on the subject of
which councils they and the Eastern Orthodox both accept,
and on which they disagree.
Dave Davis -These are my views, and not those
of Concurrent Computer.
daved@westford.ccur.com
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