Francis Schaeffer: The Last Great Modern Theologian

Next Wave ^ | December, 1999 | David Hopkins

[unspun]

Francis Schaeffer is widely regarded as the first notable person to explain our current relational, philosophical, cultural, and political conditions, as they were developing (or "fragmenting," as the case may be).

I though I'd pass along this little introduction. I've extracted the entire article, though I encourage going to the source, checking out the links, and books.

[unspun]

ping

[anniegetyourgun]

F.S. was amazing...but the last? I'm not convinced, especially in light of this scholar, teacher, apologist, author, pastor, theologian....and all around great guy!

[unspun]

Maybe the author means, of the 'modern era' as opposed to the 'postmodern era.' Ravi rocks too.

[nicmarlo]

Thanks for the ping. Although I have not finished reading How Should We Then Live?, I'm hoping, one day, to get around to doing that......I've found myself drawn to C. S. Lewis, of late; am currently reading Mere Christianity, after having recently read The Problem of Pain. Of course, I must fit in FR and other political readings, as well. So much to read, and so little time! : )

[hoosierskypilot]

My favorite book of the esteemed author/philosopher is How Should We Then Live? Absolutely relevant to our time.

[Cicero]

If we are talking about great modern theologians, I don't see how you can leave out Hans Urs von Balthasar.

[unspun]

Just did some cursory reading about him. I wonder if vonB and FS met in Switzerland. Apart from the obvious differences in Catholic and Protestant/Evangelical doctrines, they appear to have had much in common and to be used in similar ways.

Funny how that can happen. ;-`

[slimer]

Although I have not finished reading How Should We Then Live?,

It would be worth your time, IMHO, to read "How Should We Then Live" but even better if you can get the taped series and watch it. There is so much depth to his discussions and logic. It's well worth the cost and time. We have watched the tapes at least four times through in the past year and are getting ready to view them again. They inspire hours of conversation and thought.

[slimer]

Thanks for posting this. I am a big fan of Francis Schaeffer.

[jude24]

"It is important to show forth beauty before a lost world and a lost generation. All too often, people have not been wrong in saying the church is ugly. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are called upon to show a watching world -- our own children -- that the church is something beautiful." -- Francis Schaeffer

[NH Liberty]

"F.S. was amazing...but the last? I'm not convinced, especially in light of this scholar, teacher, apologist, author, pastor, theologian....and all around great guy!"

Yes, annie! Ravi Zacharias is probably my favorite apologist/evangelist, if I were forced to choose one. However, FS was also excellent.

..and all around great guy!"

BTW, have you met him?

[viaveritasvita]

Thank you so much for the article about Dr. Schaeffer! He is one of the very best of the deep Christian thinkers. I know Chuck Colson is not a theologian, but his book titled "How Now Shall We Live?" is excellent -- Colson gives much credit to Dr. Schaeffer for his work (with Nancy Pearcey).

Schaeffer had the most wonderful way of imparting theology in the most loving manner; he got me thinking with a discussion of the balance between love and holiness (where I tend to balance between love and justice).

Thanks for the links, too.

[unspun]

Mmmm.
Of the three true statements:
God is just.
God is holy.
God is love.
It seems one of them resounds the most, to one created by Him to be His son....

[P-Marlowe]

What exactly is Francis Schaeffer's Theology anyway?

And which is more important, the work of a theologian or the work of an evangelist?

[anniegetyourgun]

Yes, I have had that privilege, but once and privately one-on-one. He is one of my many spiritual heroes....though many have gone home now. Dr. Z. is assuredly one of the most humble individuals I've ever encountered.

[nicmarlo]

There is so much depth to his discussions and logic. It's well worth the cost and time.

I shall definitely try to read it soon.....I think part of why I haven't finished is because of what you wrote...there is such depth to it and right now, I find myself without the ability to stay concentrated for very long without constant interruption......which is frustrating. I am hoping the turmoil of moving, looking for a new job, and cramped space at home (another move probably in a couple of months) will ease and I will have my "focus" time back....

[betty boop]

Thanks for the ping, unspun! I highly recommend Schaeffer's Trilogy. It is a simply outstanding work.

[slimer]

I hope things settle down for you in short order. Best Wishes.

[LiteKeeper]

I am in agreement regarding both FS and Ravi, but I have great respect also for R.C.Sproul. Although not a "theologian" per say, Alvin Plantinga is at the top of the heap of philosophers, but Christian and non-Christian.