Karl Barth's Doctrine of Sanctification: An Exploration of Church Dogmatics §66

Abstract

This thesis is an investigation of Karl Barth’s doctrine of sanctification as found in §66 of the Church Dogmatics. The work involves two main tasks. First, it is an exercise in close and attentive interpretation of this section of the CD. This is completed in chapters 1, 3, and 5 in which Barth’s understanding of sanctification as set forth in §66 is explored in order to uncover the basic moves and claims he makes as he expounds this theological locus. This analysis includes reflection on the role Barth’s various engagements with Scripture play in the flow of his theological argument as well as the significance and impact of his interaction with other voices from the tradition. Second, the thesis pauses after each encounter with Barth’s work in §66 to examine a particular aspect of his theology in greater depth, a pattern that gives rise to the following discussions. Chapter 2 presents a framework in which Barth’s use of Scripture in §66, which is dominated by collections of verses joined together without comment or extended exegesis, can be understood as a persuasive demonstration of the exegetical background to his dogmatic exposition. Chapter 4 delves into the similarities and differences between Barth and Calvin on the question of sanctification particularly in light of Barth’s application of Luther’s simul to sanctification. Chapter 6 responds to Stanley Hauerwas’ critique of Barth’s doctrine of sanctification by drawing on some less familiar sections of Barth’s mature dogmatics to indicate how seriously and biblically Barth speaks of visibility and growth in the Christian life. Finally, chapter 7 connects Barth’s doctrine of sanctification to his preaching by demonstrating how the theology Barth developed in §66 influenced three of the sermons he delivered to the inmates at Basel prison. Overall, this thesis not only advances our knowledge of what Barth is about in his doctrine of sanctification but also develops our understanding of how Barth uses Scripture in the theological task, his relation to the tradition that preceded him, how he thinks through some aspects of the gospel of sanctification he has been accused of neglecting, and the manner in which he envisions theology assisting the homiletical task.