Epistemological Principles of Theological Thinking in the ELCB

Abstract

Moenga explains that his call as a bishop is to ensure that theology is the central guide of the church (MOE05b, 5). 3 MOE09b, 1: "The Church can not function without theology." 4 Bishop Moenga talks about Christology in the church and states that it helps "us to understand, what we are as a Church and what we are going to be" (MOE05/ 60). He also explains that contextual theology "can help us as a church" (MOE05/ 72), and that Lutheranism influences on the functions of the church (MOE05b, 5). 5 Theology as a source of hope for people and the church taken from MOR05/ 54-60; also SEG05/ 65-67; LEK05/ 63-64; TLH01/ 14. One of the most central calls for Christians in the church in the contemporary situation is to work among the HIV and AIDS victims in society. According to Pasi theology should lead to take care of the suffering (PAS05/ 15-18; TLH01/ 2-4; also in MOR04; MOE09b). 6 Understanding is emphasised e.g.