Week 8- Bevans, Chapter 8 (The Transcendental Model)

Continuing to think contextually with our theology, we look to the transcendental model and we come to the realization that this model brings out true authenticity in individuals. Within the transcendental model Lonergan writes, "Genuine objectivity is the fruit of authentic subjectivity." Objective knowledge, knowledge of the real, can only be achieved "by attaining authentic subjectivity. When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable to others, we essentially give a piece of ourselves to others, and allow others to know our deepest, darkest, in-most being. To some this will never happen due to the fear involved and to others this is a long process of opening up and becoming vulnerable. The process of becoming vulnerable to others is asking questions and lots of questions. A follower of Christ must ask questions. I think this is essential to the transcendental model! Asking questions is part of the experience, part of the journey, part of the movement towards Christ, and part of knowing who God is. I think this is a sign of true authenticity is asking these types of questions to yourself, but to others as well. You should have these types of conversations for your own growth and development. Cobb also expresses that the transcendental model easily admits the fact that any Christian who authentically tries to appropriate his or her faith is participating in the theologizing process and is doing genuine contextual theology.