Why I Am Still a Christian

Hans Kung is a catholic priest in good standing. However, because of some of his unorthodox ideas, such as questioning the infallibility of the Pope, he has been silenced as a theologian. One of the theological consultants at the Vatican Council in the 1960s, he no longer can teach Catholic theology. He has suffered for his creativity and his willingness to think differently. Yet, the crux of the book is this: Despite the terrible treatment he has received from the Church, he has chosen to remain faithful because there is more to being a Christian than the way other people act toward you. He tells what being a Christian means to him. It strengthens your faith. It is a book for all Christians who may feel torn by the policies of their Church or the actions of Church leaders.

Hans Kung: The prominent Swiss Catholic theologian, born in 1928, is an ecumenical phenomenon, that has been speaking out loud trying to awaken Christian consciousness. Since Vatican II, where Kung was appointed 'Peritus' by Pope John, the Vatican's 'Sacred' Congregation for Doctrine & Faith activated an inquiry into his dossier and forbade his book, 'the Church' to be translated or even discussed. Meanwhile his: 'Infallible? An inquiry' generated a worldwide acclaim, that caused his censure. On December 18, 1979, the Vatican curia issued a declaration against Kung's doctrinal views, and withdrew his canonical mission to teach Catholic theology! Why Kung stayed faithful? This concise essay, crystal clear, and prophetically insightful is no doubt Kung's most fundamental statement on the essentials of Christian faith. Simply, a personal testimony by a great Christian, written with the layperson in mind, yet would oblige all serious theologians. Kung presents his basic theological conviction, which is the core of his thought, as represented in his basic works; 'Christianity, Essence, History, and Future,' and 'On Being a Christian,' etc. It iterates great works by other reformers like John Robinson's; "The difference in being a Christian", and Paul Tillich's 'The courage to be.' Even for those who disagree with Kung's theological positions as stated in his numerous books: 'My struggle for freedom', 'Reforming the Church Today', 'Infallible?: An inquiry', etc., Hans Kung, remains faithful, like all earnest apostolates who called for the renewal of the Church, through the Holy spirit, the source of its life and power, according to the promise of her Victor Christ. The Courage to be "Christian" I was deeply moved by Kung's Christian faith and commitment, as it was pleasantly presented in this compact book. All authentic Christians, should read this faithful testament, to realize how we all share the true foundations of our common faith, with our Catholic, Protestant and Eastern brothers. This "personal testimony" reveals his tender heart and passionate devotion, not merely his theological erudition and scholarly achievements. Reading this book is an excellent attempt to meet with Kung, with the faithful who abides with the teaching authority of only the Christ. Accordingly, Kung asserts his conviction that real Christianity, against nominal institutional, and petrified traditional Christianity, has the core values, and essence of an abundant and meaningful life, ever renewed by love that upgrade us to sonship in viewpoints, actions, motives, and attitudes. "How Do We Persevere?" Only one who has had the courage to try, even oppressed by the Curia but never defeated, could have shared his experience with the Church of Karl Barth, St. John of San Francisco, Karl Rahner, Abba Kyrillos, and all the people of God. He stated that with clarity on the reason and means to persevere. In conclusion Kung challenges us all -- divided Christians--

Simply put, a personal testimony by a great Christian. Agree or disagree with his theological positions as stated in his many other books - but read this book to learn about BEING a Christian. I was deeply moved by this book, by Kung's Christian faith and commitment. Protestants especially should read this testament, to see how we have so much - so very, very much - in common with our Catholic brothers when we look to the true foundations of our common faith.

This short book was a pleasure to read. Unlike Kung's theological works, this "personal testimony" reverberates with his large heart and passion, not simply his erudition and education. Reading this book is an excellent way to meet Kung, not necessarily as a theologian, but as a Christian man of tender, yet bold, heart. I wish more of my seminary professors had shared his courage.Beginning with the nihilistic void created by relativism, Kung asserts his conviction that real Christianity, contra nominal, organizational, and traditional Christianity, contains the values upon which to build a meaningful and purposeful life. That life is exemplified by newness, in attitudes, actions, motives, viewpoints, etc. A rosy picture? Perhaps, but the addenda of "How Do We Persevere?" provides the essential balance. Only one who has had the courage to try, and be defeated by the church, can speak with authority about the means and reasons for persevering. I am grateful that he has shared this word with us.In conclusion Kung challenges us all - Catholic, Protestant, Free Church, Orthodox - to hear the Spirit's call to unity. May this challenge, and prayer, come true in my lifetime.

This short book is definitely Kung's most accessible treatment of the essentials of the Christian faith. Written specifically for the average layperson, yet lucid enough to engross any serious theologian, Kung presents the basic theological program which is the essence of his much grander works such as "On Being a Christian" and "The Church." In a nutshell, Kung, like Luther before him, calls for constant renewal of the Christian Church in the name of the man who is its source and criterion: Jesus Christ Himself.