Throughout the history of the church, certain theologians have championed a perspective often termed a “theology of the heart” or “theology of the affections.” Despite their differences on various doctrinal matters, these thinkers are connected by a shared emphasis on a unique psychology, spirituality, and epistemology that anchors the Christian experience in the concept of the “affections.” This paper explores the common threads weaving through their approaches to affective theology, drawing on the contributions of four key figures. Their insights remain valuable for shaping worship and discipleship today. The theologians highlighted are Augustine of Hippo, Blaise Pascal, Jonathan Edwards, and C. S. Lewis, each of whom grounds affective theology in the centrality of love and beauty within the Christian journey.
“Affective Theology: A Theology of the Affections from Four Theologians”, Gloria Deo Journal of Theology (2024): 113-144
“Affective Theology: A Theology of the Affections from Four Theologians”, Gloria Deo Journal of Theology (2024): 113-144
July 4, 2025
Certain theologians advocate a “theology of the heart,” uniting psychology, spirituality, and epistemology, emphasizing affections, love, and beauty in Christianity.