What is the meaning of anonymous Christian?

Answer 1

The term "anonymous Christian" could refer to a person who believes in the teachings of Jesus Christ but who is not associated with any organized religion. This term could also refer to a Christian who prefers to keep their identity hidden in a certain communication. With more qualification I could be more specific. Answer: The term 'anonymous Christian" is thought to have been coined by the Catholic theologian Karl Rahner in an attempt to explain how non-Christians could still be saved by the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Christ. Like most Christian denominations, Catholicism holds that Christ is the sole Saviour of the human race; what then of those who know nothing of Christ or have had the Gospel badly presented? Rahner held fast to the belief that Christ is the Saviour of humanity but could not accept that non-Christians remained outside of salvation. Rahner basically said that when a non-Christian lives in God's grace and follows his/her conscience (which Catholics believe is the voice of God) then that person is living the life of a Christian, albeit unknowingly. Rahner proposed this idea before the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) and is writings were highly influential amongst those who participated. In its solemn declaration on the Church, Vatican II, while not endorsing the rather controversial term "anonymous Christian" states: "Those who through no fault of their own, do not know the Gospel of Christ or His Church, but who nevertheless seek God with a sincere heart, and, moved by grace, try in their actions to do his will as they know it through the dictates of their conscience-those too may achieve eternal salvation." (paragraph 16). Thus, the Catholic Church clearly believes that, although Christ is the Saviour of the human race, it is not necessary to know Him personally to be saved. This is because, Catholicism believes that the salvation, and reconciliation, of humanity took place when Christ died and rose again, and that this salvation applies to all people whether or not they realise this fact. (Fundamentalist Protestantism insists that a personal knowledge of Christ and acceptance of Him as Saviour is necessary for salvation; thus non-Christians cannot enter heaven) (Please see related links) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------