Karl Barth never paid particular attention to the religions of the world. In fact he has often
been stereotyped as the prime exponent of an exclusivist attitude toward other religions
because of his belief that salvation comes through Christ alone. However a close analysis of
his work suggests that it defies the rigid typology of exclusivism inclusivism and pluralism
so often used in inter-religious debate and instead allows for the possibility of discerning
God's presence in the other Abrahamic faiths. This book asserts that a case can be made on the
basis of Barth's theology for promoting a democratic society which respects freedom and
difference. It shows how this argument can be extended to accommodate religious pluralism.
Other faith groups can contribute to a just society and interact in ways which are
theologically fruitful for the Church's own life. In particular this book demonstrates how
Barth's theology can help Christians relate to Muslims by showing that God's grace is at work
in places it is not expected - beyond the boundaries of the Church. The Church can be addressed
through the presence and voice of the other. In today's context this includes address through
the presence and voice of Islam.
