Post-Soviet Protestants between the Church and the University

Abstract

The article defends the thesis of the dialogic elements and predisposition in the relationship between the Church and the University. The simplicity of the “national” Evangelical Church is enhanced by intellectual confidence, and the rediscovery of the Gospel in its relevant dimensions makes possible its expression in non church spheres, such as in the university.

The Church and the University, “Jerusalem” and “Athens,” are examined in light of the providential redemption and justification of the future, when the university opens itself up to new sources and forms of knowledge, and asks questions of theology, and the Church opens itself up to the university, seeing in the academic community and in scholars potential partners indefending the value of rational thought and natural law. The university is seen as not only an antagonist in theologicalphilosophical discussions, but as a place for forming new creative impulses, which create a dynamic of search, and the relevance of experienced traditions.