The Son of Man’s Judgment of Nations. A Framework for Diaconal Spirituality?

This article examines Matthew 25:31-45 as a theological framework for diaconal spirituality. It argues that this pericope conveys both an ethical imperative and the promise of Christ’s presence. Moving beyond an imitation of Christ (imitatio Christi), it highlights the encounter with Christ (visitat...

Full description

Saved in:  
Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Gärtner, Stefan 1965- (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Check availability: HBZ Gateway
Interlibrary Loan:Interlibrary Loan for the Fachinformationsdienste (Specialized Information Services in Germany)
Published: 2025
In: Diaconia
Year: 2025, Volume: 16, Issue: 1, Pages: 59-68
Further subjects:B action-based proclamation of the gospel
B reciprocity in care
B Diaconal spirituality
B Matthew 25:31-45
Online Access: Volltext (kostenfrei)
Volltext (kostenfrei)
Description
Summary:This article examines Matthew 25:31-45 as a theological framework for diaconal spirituality. It argues that this pericope conveys both an ethical imperative and the promise of Christ’s presence. Moving beyond an imitation of Christ (imitatio Christi), it highlights the encounter with Christ (visitatio Christi) in vulnerable people. The article considers reciprocity in care, challenges the caregiver-care recipient dichotomy, and underscores the equal significance of diaconia alongside liturgy and the proclamation of the gospel. Rooted in eschatological hope, the argument affirms that pro-social action is constitutive to the church’s mission and serves as an action-based proclamation of the gospel.
ISSN:2196-9027
Contains:Enthalten in: Diaconia
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.13109/diac.2025.16.1.59