What does Ethical Dialogue Look Like? A Reflection

by Julian Bond – [ Journal of Dialogue Studies, Vol 3 No 1 ]

Abstract

Some, particularly Evangelical,1 critiques of or opposition to inter faith dialogue are based on its inappropriateness from a confessional perspective. This position argues that the committed Christian should not be involved in the dialogue of exploring commonalities without also, firstly, being clear about the difficulties of dialogue and its scope for doctrinal confusion. There cannot thus be full and meaningful dialogue about the love of God and neighbour without defining or describing God at the outset. Within this environment, although the words themselves – God and neighbour – unite, doctrine divides. For the Christian who shares this position, the first step in opening dialogue is through a confrontation between Trinity and Tawhid.