Karl Barth and evangelicalism: a study of the relationship between Karl Barth and the evangelical tradition with particular reference to the concept of "nothingness"

In pursuing its object the thesis commences with a brief sketch of Karl Barth's theological development and some leading and controlling themes in his theology. Aspects of his theological contribution are examined before an assessment is made of Barth as an evangelical theologian. In the second chapter an attempt is made to chart some theological responses to Barth using a selection of nine evangelical theologians. A pattern of initial hostility leading into gradual assimilation is discerned before attention is given to particular loci of the debate between Barth and evangelicalism, the most considerable of which is deemed to be Barth's reputed Universalism. The attempt is made to respond to Barth's concerns in a positive way. Chapter three focuses on the relationship between Barth and Pietism and seeks to illuminate the extent to which he was both indebted to and critical of this phenomenon which has clear parallels with evangelicalism. From this study emerge particular concerns to do with the difference between Christians and non-Christians and the place of individualism and subjectivity in the Christian scheme. Suggestions are made concerning a fuller doctrine of the Holy Spirit. In chapter four a specific examination of Barth's doctrine of nothingness is made as a way of anchoring the general approach of preceding chapters. Barth's distinctive contribution is listened to and an evaluation made which leads to an alternative statement deemed to be more consistent with Barth's fundamental theological approach. In conclusion the argument of the thesis, that Barth is an evangelical theologian who needs to be taken with the utmost seriousness although not followed at every point, is summarised. The thesis concludes with some programmatic reflections for the future of evangelical theology which takes into account the findings of the thesis, including the addenda to chapters two and three on 'Barth and Anabaptism' and 'Barth and the charismatic movement'