Cognition or Spiritual Disposition? Threshold Concepts in Theological Reflection†

Abstract

The article explores threshold concepts in theological reflection. Threshold concepts and a conversational model of theological reflection are defined and some features shared between them are identified. A doctoral research project among students for licensed lay ministry is summarized. Three threshold concepts in theological reflection are identified relating to the interpreted nature of texts, the complexity of theological reflection, and its pervasiveness. These are related to some key features of threshold concepts. The article then turns to threshold concept negotiation in the author's learning about theological reflection. Two further threshold concepts are identified relating to an internally held disposition or habitus of faith and spirituality. The article concludes with a reflective conversation with a biblical text before suggesting that exploration of habitus may have relevance for threshold concept transitions beyond theological reflection.