Rahner's Argument

Karl Rahner, regarded as one of the most important theologians of the twentieth century, presents a succinct yet influential treatise attempting to provide a systematic reflection on the doctrine of the Trinity, out of a response to the Neo-Scholasticism of the twentieth century, which produced a “Unitarian” Christology and theology of grace.

Summary

After laying the foundation for his grandaxiom, the economic Trinity is the immanent Trinity and the immanent Trinity is the economic Trinity, in part two, Rahner attempts to provide a systematic exposition of the teachings of the magisterium regarding the Trinitarian doctrine. Having recognized the recondite nature of the Trinity, Rahner evaluates conciliar terms, such as ‘person,’ ‘substance,’

Understandably, Rahner, as a Catholic, may be obliged to the Magisterium, however, he hardly quotes directly from Scripture. Concerning Rahner’s argument with regards to the term ‘persons’ is commendable. However, Rahner’s alternative to replace ‘persons’ with ‘distinct manner of subsisting’ seems, likewise, ambiguous. The fact that Rahner deems it necessary to justify his alternative through painstaking explanation leaves one wondering whether his explanation is, in fact, clearer (109-113). As a concluding critique of part two, and in essence the book as a whole, Rahner presupposes an expansive amount of knowledge in German philosophy as well as scholastic and catholic teachings upon his readers. Though Rahner provides further explanations in his footnotes, the density of his material as well as his exhaustive vocabulary may lessen his works appeal to a broader audience.

Conclusion All things considered, one can effortlessly understand why Rahner’s exposition on the Trinity is considered a milestone in Catholic theology, as well as revolutionary in the understanding of the doctrine of the Trinity, demonstrated by the acceptance of his now-famous axiom in contemporary studies