Jürgen Moltmann. In Memoriam

Abstract

It is no exaggeration to say that the German Reformed theologian Jürgen Moltmann is one of the most important Christian theologians of the second half of the XX century. His life experience, his defining book The Theology of Hope (1967), and his ecumenical ministry extended his influence not only beyond Protestant circles but also beyond Christianity as such. Political theology, liberation theologies, the social gospel, and the struggle for justice have all been shaped in one way or another by Moltmann's theological thoughts. His concept of the “Crucified God” remains one of the main Christological themes in the study of systematic theology. Contemporary Christian thinkers owe Moltmann at least for the fact that because of his efforts, theology went beyond the academic classroom, found its embodiment in various resistance movements, and became public. Jürgen Moltmann lived a long life, did much for the development of Christian theology, and left behind a rich legacy of writings, teachings, and students. Today, perhaps, there is not a single area on the list of doctrines in which his name is not mentioned in one way or another.