Paul Knitter’s Theology of Religions: A Survey and Evangelical Response

Paul Knitter has become a figurehead of the increasingly popular theology of religions known as religious pluralism. The first half of this study traces Knitter’s theological journey to and through the pluralist paradigm. Focus will be given to Knitter’s current soteriocentric model. The last half of the article comprises an evangelical response, first, to the general foundations of pluralism, and second, to the central aspects of Knitter’s soteriocentric approach to interreligious relationships and dialogue. Specifically, Knitter’s ideas are be evaluated by submitting them to the two criteriological touchstones which he himself acknowledges: ‛Does it work’ (i.e., does his position actually foster authentic dialogue)?, and ‛Is it Christian’?