Progressive, Conservative or Roman-Catholic? On the Theology of Joseph Ratzinger in Evangelical Perspective

Joseph Ratzinger is one of the pivotal figures in the theological scene following the Second Vatican Council. His theology magnificently epitomizes the catholicity of Roman-Catholic thought. Evangelical reactions to his election to the papacy have applauded his “Bible-focused” theology. Yet, as Leonardo De Chirico notes in this article, the question whether the Reformation is over remains urgent and appropriate.

The second half of the XX century has seen different popes leading the Roman-Catholic Church through and beyond the most significant event of its recent history, i.e. the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965). John XXIII (1958-1963) was the theologically conservative, yet pastorally alert pope who saw the need to end the introspective age of Vatican I and to develop a new phase in the life of the Church in confronting the modern world. Paul VI (1963-1978) was the thoughtful intellectual who had to administer the most difficult part of Vatican II (i.e. the final years) and oversee the beginning of its controversial implementation….Download the full article’s pdf here.