This first purpose of this article is to articulate John Hick’s theology of religion, and the second purpose is to investigate the meaning of mission in Hick’s religious theology. For the first goal, this article examines his theology in the following category; 1) the common ground of religions, 2) relativistic aspect of Christology, 3) salvation/liberation. Because Hick’s theology of religion is developed on the assumption that all religions aim one same Reality, the common ground of all religion is preferentially examined. Secondly, his Christological perspective is examined through his understanding of Incarnation. Lastly, his understanding of salvation, which is the final goal of all religions, is examined. For the missionary meaning of Hick’s religious theology, this article engaged on 1) overcoming of conquering model in the theology of religion, 2) relativizing Christology and mission 3) dialogue and transformation including conversion. Hick’s theology provides the foundation to overcome the dualistic superiority of Christianity which regards other religions as idolatry or non-truth. Through the distinction between Godhead and God, and thing-in-itself and phenomenon, Hick insists that a religion cannot perceive Reality itself. This means that Christianity cannot recognize God [Reality] itself. His theology is overcoming exclusivism of Christianity. However, his theology makes mission meaningless because he relativizes Christology. Therefore, his understanding of Jesus Christ and Incarnation are critically examined. Lastly, I insist that Christian mission should go beyond dialogue and transformation even though Hick’s notion of mission points to dialogue. Mission demands the life as Jesus’disciple, and witness of Gospel beyond sharing. Furthermore, Christian mission should go beyond social transformation or political solidarity because Gospel includes religious aspect as well as social aspect.

• 이찬석(남서울대학교 ․ 조직신학) | Lee Chanseok