Robert Govaerts

St. Maximus as Spiritual Guide for Our World Robert Govaerts

This book explores the theological faith-vision of Maximus the Confessor (580-662). It enters into historical details that situate Maximus in the ecclesial and political circumstances of his day and beyond. It considers his role in the Christological disputes that divided the Christian communities of the Byzantine empire, that led to his being tried at the imperial court in his old age, to his severe corporal punishment, and to his death in exile. Detail is provided of his place and stance as regards other ecclesial matters, including the Filioque controversy that then arose, the much later claims of the Roman papacy upon universal jurisdiction and infallibility in matters of faith and morals, and ecumenism. In addition to the attention given to the ecclesial aspect of Maximus' theological spirituality, several chapters treat the individual and cosmic transformation that he envisages taking place through communion in Christ. Besides being a substantial introduction to and thorough evaluation of Maximus, this book will be found valuable for those who wish to deepen their insight in the theology of the Trinity, in the cosmic significance of the mystery in Christ, in salvation in Christ and in the Spirit, in ecumenical dialogue among and with various Eastern churches, and in a contemporary creation-inclusive Christian spirituality that is rooted in scripture and the patristic tradition.