Bultmann theology of the new testament

A fascinating topic!

Rudolf Bultmann (1884-1976) was a German Lutheran theologian and biblical scholar who had a profound impact on the study of the New Testament. His theology, particularly his understanding of the New Testament, is characterized by several key features. Here's an overview:

Key themes:

  1. Demythologization: Bultmann argued that the New Testament texts were written in a mythological context, which made it necessary to separate the historical Jesus from the mythological and legendary elements surrounding him. He believed that the New Testament authors used mythological language to convey spiritual truths, which needed to be demythologized to understand their historical significance.
  2. Existentialism: Bultmann was influenced by existentialist philosophy, which emphasizes individual existence and experience. He applied this perspective to the New Testament, arguing that the Christian message is not about abstract dogma or doctrine, but about the individual's existential encounter with God.
  3. Kerygma: Bultmann believed that the New Testament is primarily a collection of kerygmatic texts, which are proclamations of the Christian message. He argued that the New Testament authors were not primarily concerned with historical accuracy or theological systematization, but with proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ.
  4. Theology of the Cross: Bultmann was deeply influenced by the theology of the cross, which emphasizes the paradoxical nature of the Christian message. He believed that the cross of Christ is the central event of Christian theology, and that it reveals the true nature of God as a God of love and mercy.
  5. Theology of the New Humanity: Bultmann believed that the New Testament presents a vision of a new humanity, which is characterized by faith, hope, and love. He argued that this new humanity is not a product of human effort, but is a gift of God's grace.

Implications for New Testament studies:

  1. Focus on the historical Jesus: Bultmann's demythologization approach led him to focus on the historical Jesus, rather than the mythological and legendary accounts of his life.
  2. Emphasis on the kerygma: Bultmann's emphasis on the kerygma led him to prioritize the proclamation of the Christian message over historical or theological analysis.
  3. Critique of traditional theology: Bultmann's existentialist and demythologizing approaches led him to critique traditional Christian theology, which he saw as overly focused on dogma and doctrine.
  4. Influence on biblical scholarship: Bultmann's work had a significant impact on biblical scholarship, particularly in the areas of New Testament exegesis and theology.

Criticisms and controversies:

  1. Overemphasis on demythologization: Some critics argued that Bultmann's demythologization approach was too extreme, and that it neglected the historical and cultural context of the New Testament.
  2. Lack of attention to historical context: Bultmann's focus on the kerygma and the existential encounter with God led some to criticize his work for neglecting the historical context of the New Testament.
  3. Influence on liberal theology: Bultmann's existentialist and demythologizing approaches were seen by some as contributing to the development of liberal theology, which was criticized for its perceived lack of emphasis on traditional Christian doctrine.

Overall, Bultmann's theology of the New Testament is characterized by its emphasis on demythologization, existentialism, and the kerygma. While his work has had a significant impact on biblical scholarship, it has also been subject to criticism and controversy.