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Document Details :

Title: The Proclamation of Truth between Exclusivity and Inclusivity
Subtitle: A Critical Analysis of the Use of John 14:6 in Vatican II
Author(s): IBITA, Ma. Marilou S.
Journal: Louvain Studies
Volume: 40    Issue: 2   Date: 2017   
Pages: 170-183
DOI: 10.2143/LS.40.2.3220913

Abstract :
One of the prevailing contexts leading to Vatican II was the increasing impact of historical-critical exegesis on the way of theologizing in the Catholic Church. This paper concentrates on the theme of the proclamation of the truth and the use of biblical warrants in Nostra Aetate and Ad Gentes. It asks if the use of the phrase 'via et veritas et vita' in these documents is justified in view of the Johannine literary and historical contexts. It suggests that in the light of the communal and farewell meal context, Jesus’ claim, 'I am the way and the truth and the life', underscores his exclusive role in the Johannine community and affirms group identity while it also potentially provides an opening for inclusivity by means of the recognition of otherness.

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