Question: What does the phrase, "rational theologian" mean to you?

(Claude AI) To me, the phrase "rational theologian" implies a theologian who seeks to explore and interpret theological concepts using reason, evidence, and logical argument, rather than relying solely on faith, revelation, or biblical literalism.

Some key characteristics of a rational theologian:

• Uses critical analysis when examining religious texts, doctrines, and teachings rather than accepting them uncritically.
• Willing to question traditional or orthodox beliefs and examine them in light of reason and evidence from fields like science and history.
• Relies on logical reasoning over mystical experience or divine inspiration in formulating theological viewpoints.
• Acknowledges symbolism, metaphor, and context in sacred texts rather than strict literalism.
• Sees faith and reason as compatible and complementary rather than opposed.
• Open to intellectually honest dialogue and debate around theology.
• Seeks sensible, nuanced perspectives on issues like human nature, ethics, the problem of evil rather than dogma.
• Places importance on the ethical and philosophical teachings of a religion rather than supernatural claims.

Overall, a rational theologian aims to engage theology and religious questions with the same intellectual rigor, evidence-based analysis, and logic applied in philosophy and science. Faith still plays a role but is balanced by an emphasis on reason.