Revisiting the Franciscan Doctrine of Christ

Abstract

[Franciscan theologians posit an integral relation between Incarnation and Creation whereby the Incarnation is grounded in the Trinity of love. The primacy of Christ as the fundamental reason for the Incarnation underscores a theocentric understanding of Incarnation that widens the meaning of salvation and places it in a cosmic content. The author explores the primacy of Christ both in its historical context and with a contemporary view toward ecology, world religions, and extraterrestrial life, emphasizing the fullness of the mystery of Christ.]

Christology From Within

“…The idea that Christ is the capstone of creation is one rooted in New Testament literature and known as the primacy of Christ. 39 It is based on the Pauline notion that Jesus Christ is the 'image of the invisible God, the first born of every creature' [Col 1:15 see also Eph 1:20-23 and Jn 1]. Scotus held that God is absolutely free and chose to create this world precisely as it is to reveal divine love.…”