What does demythologization mean?

Definition and Origin

Demythologization is a theological approach that seeks to reinterpret or remove what it deems “mythological” elements from biblical texts. The term is often associated with the mid-twentieth-century scholar Rudolf Bultmann, who proposed that certain supernatural or miraculous accounts in Scripture are best understood in non-literal or existential terms. According to Bultmann’s original perspective, modern readers, shaped by scientific inquiry and human reason, find it difficult to accept accounts of angels, demons, miracles, and resurrection at face value. Thus, he believed the New Testament should be “demythologized” to uncover its existential core—focusing on personal faith rather than historical miracles.

Key Theological Presuppositions

1. View of Scripture

Advocates of demythologization often question the literal and historical nature of supernatural accounts, suggesting that ancient authors conveyed spiritual truths through culturally situated mythical or symbolic language. This presupposes that the biblical worldview is inherently shaped by the ancient Near Eastern milieu and must be adapted to modern thought.

2. Christological Impact

Because the Gospels are filled with miracles—healings, exorcisms, and most notably the resurrection—demythologization implies that some core elements of Christ’s ministry cannot be taken at face value as historical occurrences. Yet passages such as 1 Corinthians 15:3–6 emphasize the resurrection as both historical fact and the cornerstone of Christian faith.

3. Existential Emphasis

As Bultmann and others argued, the key message of the New Testament is the call to authentic human existence before God, not necessarily the historical reality of miracles. In this system, the “mythical” elements are placeholders for transcendent truths that should be reinterpreted in existential or philosophical categories.

Historical Development

Demythologization, in one sense or another, has antecedents in earlier biblical scholarship that questioned supernatural phenomena. However, Bultmann’s systematic approach in the twentieth century popularized the term and set the agenda for many liberal theological circles. Over time, responses to Bultmann ranged from outright rejection by those who saw his method as undermining biblical authority, to partial acceptance by scholars who adapted demythologization into broader discussions of form criticism and existential philosophy.

Scriptural Examination

1. Biblical Authority and Inspiration

Scripture repeatedly attests to its divine origin and authority. As 2 Timothy 3:16 affirms: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” This passage underlines that the accounts, including powerful acts of God and Christ’s physical resurrection, are not peripheral but central to the biblical narrative.

2. The Reality of the Supernatural

Numerous biblical texts, such as Acts 2:22, portray Jesus as “a Man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs.” This statement implicitly argues against the idea that miracles are merely mythological: they are presented in the text as historical realities. Likewise, 2 Peter 1:16 states: “For we did not follow cleverly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty.” The apostle’s claim to be an eyewitness refutes the notion that the accounts were invented myths.

3. Centrality of the Resurrection

Demythologization often faces its greatest dilemma at the accounts of Christ’s bodily resurrection. The apostles unequivocally taught this event as a historical occurrence (Acts 2:32), attested by multiple witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:6). Outside the biblical text, early Christian writings by figures such as Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch also affirm a literal resurrection. The emphasis on the resurrection is so integral that removing its historicity from Christian teaching runs counter to passages such as 1 Corinthians 15:14: “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is worthless, and so is your faith.”

Criticisms of Demythologization

1. Undermining Biblical Authority

Critics argue that by designating supernatural events as non-historical, one dismisses the unity and trustworthiness of Scripture. Archaeological findings, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, demonstrate the remarkable preservation and consistency of biblical manuscripts over centuries, reinforcing that the text’s message has endured reliably without the need for mythical “core” distinctions.

2. Misinterpretation of Genre

While some passages of Scripture may contain poetic or apocalyptic language (e.g., portions of Revelation or Daniel), equating that language with pure myth overlooks the distinct literary forms within the Bible. Writers often employed vivid literary devices, yet consistently pointed to actual, historical events—from the Exodus to the resurrection.

3. Philosophical Bias

Demythologization presupposes that miracles are incompatible with modern scientific understanding. However, many scientists, philosophers, and theologians see no contradiction in acknowledging a Creator capable of operating beyond natural laws. Historical accounts of miracles, as documented in the Gospels and repeatedly attested throughout Christian history, challenge the assumption that supernatural intervention must be dismissed.

Contemporary Relevance

Demythologization continues to influence certain corners of biblical scholarship and popular theology. Some adopt more moderate or “post-Bultmannian” approaches, accepting the reality of the resurrection while suggesting other miraculous reports should be treated symbolically. Yet, the broader Christian tradition, grounded in passages such as John 20:29–31, champions the reliability and unity of Scripture, encouraging believers and seekers alike to consider the supernatural elements as foundational truths rather than mere metaphorical constructs.

Practical Implications

Those who hold to the historical reliability of miracles and the bodily resurrection see Scripture as an integrated whole: God’s revealed Word from Genesis to Revelation. Practically, this shapes teaching, preaching, and personal faith by preserving the integrity of divine action through history. It also reinforces the conviction that, just as Christ physically rose from the grave, He can still intervene miraculously in the present world—a view corroborated by numerous anecdotal cases of divine healing and transformation.

Conclusion

Demythologization posits that alleged “mythical” elements in Scripture ought to be reinterpreted through existential or modern philosophical lenses, largely divorcing them from historical reality. While it arose from attempts to make the Bible more accessible to a modern audience, it faces significant critique for undermining the authority of biblical texts and for neglecting extensive manuscript, archaeological, and historical evidence supporting Scripture’s accuracy and trustworthiness.

Ultimately, for those who accept the Bible’s complete reliability, miracles and the resurrection are vital truths. They are woven into the consistent testimony of Scripture that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Demythologization, therefore, remains a focal point of debate, challenging readers to carefully examine the historic, doctrinal, and existential dimensions of the Christian faith.