Christology

This chapter traces the development of Reinhold Niebuhr’s Christology through the course of his writings, arguing that his later work showed a fuller engagement with Christology. It then situates his Christology within a five-fold dogmatics based on (1) the doctrine of the incarnation; (2) Jesus’ life and mission; (3) his betrayal, arrest, and crucifixion; (4) his resurrection and ascension; (5) his promised return. Reinhold Niebuhr’s Christology has received diverse evaluations. Although some of that diversity is noted, this chapter is not primarily interested in resolving the conflicting assessments. Instead, it aims to offer a comprehensive interpretation of his Christological thought as a whole.