The function of doxology in Karl Barth

This dissertation analyzes the function of doxology in the theology of Karl Barth as a paradigm for theological reflection. Doxology is defined as the praising, the honoring, and the glorifying of God; or, on occasion, in the more technical sense of the theological study of worship.; The primary sources for research and analysis are Karl Barth's theological works in German concerning doxology and theology in relation to biblical revelation. Die Kirchliche Dogmatik and Unterricht in der Christlichen Religion German editions are used for the primary critical texts.; Doxology functions as a strategic element in Barth's systematic theology---strategic in the sense that he considers doxology as an intentional element of the design of his dogmatics. His dialectical approach makes worship dependent on Scripture and tradition as components in the act of glorifying and praising God. Worship should be placed under the supremacy of Scripture, limiting tradition as a source of authority. The issues of Scripture and tradition, in relation to doxology, must be addressed if those from the evangelical tradition are to appropriate Barth's functional use of doxology as a hermeneutical method.; Chapter one demonstrates that doxology functions as a paradigm for Barth's theological reflection. He regards worship and prayer as responsive to God's self-revelation. Theological reflection renders theology as a sacrifice of praise and as a function of divine service. In reading his doctrine of God's self-revelation, one quickly discovers the importance of doxological themes and their importance for theological reflection.; Chapter two presents evidence that Barth places Scripture as the supreme authority over tradition so that the evangelical tradition can appropriate his functional use of doxology in their hermeneutical method. Barth allows for the fallibility of Scripture. The evangelical community may, therefore, need to qualify their appropriation of Barth's doxological paradigm.; Chapter three addresses the importance of the dialectical nature of doxology as it functions as a complement in Barth's theological method. His theological reflection, both early and late, demonstrates a deep interdependence between prayer and theology. Both the invocation and acknowledgment of God result in the possibility of theological insight and, therefore, can provide interpretive knowledge of the Word of God for the writing of theology. Doxology and dialectical theology fit together like a hand in a well-fitted glove in his dogmatic exposition.