Christian-Muslim dialogue has been an important aspect of the Christian mission throughout church history. It plays a significant role in making space for gospel conversations between Christians and Muslims in Pakistan. In this paper, I argue that Barth’s theology of reconciliation can be an important point of interaction with the Islamic theology of reconciliation in the Pakistani context. This will provide a stepping stone for pastor-theologians in the country to engage in missional conversations with Muslim colleagues. The paper adopts a three-pronged approach: (a) identifying the main features of Barth’s theology of reconciliation, (b) explaining the Islamic theology of reconciliation, and (c) describing the implications of Barth’s theology of reconciliation for the church in Pakistan.
Barth’s account of the doctrine of reconciliation is highly Christocentric; for Barth, the promise of “God with us” is foundational because it demonstrates God’s love and powerful action to reconcile the world despite its sinful condition. Barth presents his thoughts within a covenantal framework, viewing Christ as the mediator of the covenant. His death and resurrection ensure the reconciliation of the world with God through His grace.
In contrast, Islam does not view atonement as necessary for reconciliation with God; rather, it primarily emphasizes the importance of good deeds for salvation. Muslim scholars argue that God forgave Adam’s sin and that his iniquity does not carry over to subsequent generations. However, Islam posits that God’s revelation— “the rope of God”—plays a key role in reconciliation, in certain ways parallelling Barth’s emphasis on the divine Word. Additionally, Islam advocates for reconciliation between God and humanity, as well as among Muslims of different theological traditions, fostering a sense of brotherhood and a peaceful community. It also encourages reconciliation with people of other faiths to a certain extent. These points offer opportunities for collaboration.
The third and final part of the paper will emphasize that although there are both differences and similarities between Barth’s theology and the Islamic understanding of reconciliation, the church in Pakistan can utilize Barth’s theology of reconciliation to engage with its Islamic neighbors. Furthermore, Barth’s Christocentric approach carries significant missionary implications for theological engagement with Muslim theologians in the region.