REL 2001 Chapter : Tillich
Document Summary
In discussing the truth of faith, tillich examines the relation between faith and reason. Tillich says that reason is a precondition for faith, and that faith is an act in which reason ecstatically transcends itself. 9 ecstacy does not deny rationality, but fulfills it. Reason fulfills itself when it brings an awareness of the presence of ultimate reality. Tillich believes that the truth of faith does not conflict with scientific truth, unless faith claims to express scientific truth, or unless science expresses faith in a particular model of reality. The truth of faith is also independent of historical truth, and historical truth is independent of the truth of faith. Tillich says that the truth of faith can neither be affirmed nor denied by scientific, historical, or philosophical truth. Faith is true insofar as it adequately expresses a concern with ultimate reality. 10. The dynamics of faith are evident in the conflict between participation in, and separation from, ultimate reality.
