The Effects of Postmodernism on Thеоlogy: A Theological Evaluation

Robert Osei-Bonsu, P.h.D

Abstract

Introduction

The question as to the relationship between postmodernism and theology has been a much debated issue in theological circles recently. As Kwabena Donkor indicates, just as the intellectual revolution of modernism reversed medieval philosophical suppositions, in the same way, postmodernism seems to challenge the assumptions of modern categories.¹ Furthermore, Kevin J. Vanhoozer points out that "Modernity and Postmodernity are like two great tectonic plates whose movements and collision uproot and overturn the foundations of earthly institutions: states, universities, churches."2 Modernism and Postmodernism represent periods of significant changes in Western philosophical thought that seem to challenge every aspect of life.

The ingress of postmodernism in modernism is impacting theology dramatically. For instance, the issue of divine revelation as the sole source of truth is under attack today, lending credence to historicism's¹ assertion that "all truth including that of the Christian faith, must submit to the judgement of history."2 The effect of postmodernism on contemporary theology has resulted in the various calls for the "revisioning" of evangelical theology in order for it to reflect contemporary epistemological concerns.3 Though some aspects of postmodernism maybe compatible with and supportive of Christian theology, other aspects are incompatible.

This paper, therefore, seeks answers to these questions: What is postmodernism and its effects on theology? How can the traditional methods of doing theology be relevant in a postmodern world and what is the Christian's response to postmodernism? The study aims at responding to the various challenges postmodernism poses to theology.

This study employs both theological and philosophical method of analysis in examining the relevant materials. It is divided into three sections; a brief definition of premodernism, modernism, and then seeks to define postmodernism, then it looks at the effects of postmodernism on Christian theology and how theology can meet these challenges.