ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the qualifications of Christian discipleship as it is determined by the descent into hell and the understanding of God's love that is manifested there. It ascertains the contours of Christian discipleship and the defining characteristics of Christian love from the divine love revealed in the descent into hell. As Hunsinger concentrates his attention on Barth's view of the cross in his description of God's love as non-violent enemy-love, the chapter focuses on Balthasar's view of Jesus Christ's descent into hell, to understand divine love and human love that the believer is summoned to embody in the call to discipleship. There are many themes present in Balthasar's understanding of Christian discipleship that resemble Barth's treatment of discipleship and New Testament ethics. In delineating the elements of the relationship between the passion of Christ and discipleship, the chapter reiterates the commonalities between Barth and Balthasar and highlights the distinctive mark made by the confession of the descent into hell.
