Soteriology

Danielle Benedict: Outside Reading (4)

Pope John Paul II- “Salvifici Doloris” (encyclical)

Soteriology is the theology of salvation. Pope John Paul defines salvation as “liberation from evil,” therefore it is inherently tied to suffering. Without suffering, can we be saved? What type of pain meets the definition of suffering? There is perceived suffering, where the individual believes they are at a loss. One could hear criticism or receive an insult and this is emotional suffering. Human perception is a factor in suffering. There is literal suffering also known as agony. When you break and arm or fight a serious infection this is suffering. John Paul writes that any suffering, no matter the type, is the opposite of salvation. Which is highly ironic since Christ suffered and was humbled by the cross for humans to gain salvation. He described the importance of Christ’s substitution in the terms of “if the suffering ‘is measured’ by the evil suffered, then the words of the prophet enable us to understand the extent of this evil and suffering with which Christ burdened Himself.” God experienced suffering and I believe we can find reassurance in that because even in our worst moments we have a shared experience with Him