And Still We Wait: Hans Urs Von Balthasar's Theology of Holy Saturday and Christian Discipleship: 229 (Princeton Theological Monograph)

In response to the recent critiques made against Balthasars interpretation of Christs descent into hell on Holy Saturday this book argues that Balthasar does not intend to present a radical reinterpretation of the doctrine in contrast to the traditional teachings but rather intends to fully appreciate the in-betweenness of Holy Saturday as the day of transition from the cross to the resurrection from the old aeon to the new. The book further argues that this awareness of the in-betweenness can be detected throughout Balthasars theological corpus and provides a clue to interpret his thoughts on Christian discipleship and suffering. After all the Christian existence is also characterized by the transition from the old aeon to the new from suffering to victory. The Christian believes that their victory is already here and not here yet. In this sense the Christian still lives in Holy Saturday. Eventually we can deepen our understanding of Christian discipleship and suffering in the light of Holy Saturday. In short we could patiently endure our Holy Saturday because of Christs Holy Saturday in hell.