Understanding Stanley Hauerwas’ Narrative Theology: Application to Christian Foundation (Scripture, Character and Community)

Seminary N310

In the last 40 years, there has been a significant amount of interest in the construction of what is known as narrative theology, the art and science behind biblical storytelling. Among various scholars in the field of narrative theology that have contributed, Stanley Hauerwas has argued a different approach to biblical narrative highlighting more than just the stories per se. For centuries, the biblical anecdotes have inspired countless to believe, to fight, to grow, to pursue and to hope; that is the power of stories. Ever since we can remember, stories have been the gateway to our imagination. The world around us is known through storytelling, to say nothing of the many moral lessons that we can acquire when sharing these stories. With this in mind, it is difficult not to realize the value of this ability contributing to the development of our knowledge of God. This is the picture that Hauerwas painted for narrative, yet he not only focuses on the stories, but also provides additional elements that enhance a very intriguing perspective on the value and application of narrative theology. For the sake of this research project, the study will be analyzing Stanley Hauerwas’ explanation of his theology of narratives in conjunction with his development of community and character. The question to answer is: Does Hauerwas’ theology contribute to a better understanding and approach to Scripture in light of the search for morality and ethical behavior for Christians? First, there follows a synthesis of the main idea. The second step is a process of critique or criticism by other authors. Then last, the conclusion to the research with added recommendations for a universal utilization of Hauerwas’ narrative theology. This study is based on archival research of Hauerwas’ writings. This research had several limitations. A limitation of the research was the time inability to read all portions of Hauerwas’ writing; reflecting Hauerwas’ perspective of narrative theology from 1974 to 2015. This study does not explain in depth all the teaching of post-liberal theology nor inform the perspectives from each of its major contributors. The purpose of this research is to have a basis to engage Hauerwas’ version of post-liberal theology. In order to grasp the essential ideas of Hauerwas’ narrative theology; although the major elements are studied (narrative, character, community), they are explained specifically in direct relationship to understand the concept of narrative theology. When it comes to comparing narrative theology and hermeneutics, the comparison is not exhaustive. The purpose of the comparison is to highlight basic similarities and differences, providing the need for revision to better execute the emphasis in using narrative theology.