| Popis: |
This article explores the Christian notion of the resurrection of the dead under four headings: finality, individuality, communality and hope. For each, it takes its starting point in 1 Corinthians 15, and from there explores the debates and controversies associated with each basic affirmation, drawing from ancient and modern authors across the tradition, with reference to some of the key scriptural texts. Under the heading of finality the article explores, first, the question of whether the resurrection restores an original perfection or rather brings about a new creation which exceeds the first; and second, whether death is a natural good or the consequence of sin. It argues for the finality of the resurrection as that which lends life on earth decisive and conclusive significance. Under the heading of individuality it explores patristic and medieval debates concerning the persistence of matter at the resurrection, and modern counterparts to these debates, whether in experiments in artificial intelligence or in contemporary gender discourse, arguing that the real significance of these discussions lies in the question of the nature of the good. Under the heading of communality it explores the question of whether all or only some are raised to salvation, and of whether the resurrection concerns only human beings or all living creatures, concluding that a focus on the extent of the resurrection’s inclusivity should give way to a focus on the communal character of resurrection life. Under the heading of hope it offers a liberationist response to the Nietzschean critique that belief in an afterlife entails a denial of this life. |
