Christianity Books
SCM Press Christianity Rediscovered
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£22.52
Hymns Ancient & Modern Sounding the Depths Theology Through the Arts
Book SynopsisTheologians and artists reflect here on how theology and the arts can be mutually enriching and beneficial. The contibutors argue that it is part of theology's "calling" to engage with culture, particularly the arts, and that it is not in fact "true" theology unless it does so.
£21.99
SCM Press Reconciliation
Book SynopsisReconciliation is a theme of major contemporary interest, especially in a world engaged in a "war on terror". John de Gruchy is wary of false or complacent notions of reconciliation and argues that reconciliation depends in the end on the restoration of justice.
£27.09
SCM Press Speaking in Parables A Study in Metaphor and Theology SCM Classics
Book SynopsisThis work discusses the importance for theology of narrative and story. The central contention of the book is that, if Jesus' parables are taken as models of theological reflection, there is a form there that unites language, belief and life.Trade Review'This book is immensely valuable for its persuasive illustrations of the parabolic and metaphoric imagination.' Journal of the American Academy of Religion 'Absorbingly readable.' Andover Newton Quarterly
£21.99
SCM Press Eternal Now SCM Classics
Book SynopsisThese 16 sermons contain in concentrated form some of Tillich's most lambent themes. He discusses, among other topics, wisdom; salvation; loneliness and solitude; creation in relation to the creator; inequality and spiritual presence.Trade ReviewIt has an admirable unity, no to say a seamless argument across its twenty-two relatively short but relective chapters. (...) the author never takes the easy otpion, she faces each proble; squarely and with wisdom. Allan Doig, LMH.
£20.54
SCM Press Sexism and Godtalk
Book SynopsisHere, Ruether uses feminist theology as a tool to expose the male-centred bias of classical theology, examining the ways in which the female has been (uncomfortably) accommodated within the Christian tradition. She then articulates a faith which encorporates both genders in their totality.Trade ReviewBrian Frost charts the histories with immaculate care and many footnotes, but also with deep feeling and often personal recollections, expecially concerning our coomon contemporaries - which many, like myself, will particularly value. The Revd Dr John Vincent, Methodist Recorder, October 12, 2006.
£31.56
SCM Press Theology of Hope SCM Classics
£25.00
Hymns Ancient & Modern After Christianity
Book SynopsisDescribes a systematic theology for our times, directed towards those many people who feel compelled to discard the Christian story, but who would nonetheless be spiritual persons. This reissue features a new introduction in which the author responds to a number of her critics.
£26.60
SCM Press Jesus
Book SynopsisThis volume argues that theology and Christology are inseparably bound together: one can only talk about God when one talks about Jesus. The author develops that connection systematically and brings together dogmatics, biblical exposition and philosophical reflection.Trade ReviewIn compiling an excellent bibliography of sources on the female diaconate, Wijngaards has done a fine service to the non-European reader. (...) While this book is replete with interesting and valuable citations and references for the scholarm it continues the popular style of Wijngaards's The Ordination of Women in the Catholic Church (2001), and is more suitable for the general reader. Phyllis Zagano, Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y. THEOLOGICAL STUDIES, December 2004. ‘This book is a “must” for all serious students of contemporary theology.’ Expository Times ‘A model of how doctrine should be done.’ Theology ‘A masterpiece from one of the seminal minds of our era… One of the finest books written in theology in our time.’ Methodist Recorder
£25.98
SCM Press Texts of Terror
Book SynopsisHere, the author examines four Old Testament narratives of suffering in ancient Israel: Hagar, Tamar, an unnamed concubine and the daughter of Jephthah. The stories prompt much reflection on contemporary misuse of the Bible, and therefore have considerable relevance in modern times.
£25.98
SCM Press The Early Church From the Beginnings to 461 SCM Classics
Book SynopsisA history of the formative period of the Church, this text includes an account of Rome and first-century Judaism, the gnostics and the conflicts of Eastern Christendom. It examines such figures as Origen, Arian and St Augustine of Hippo.
£19.99
SCM Press Barclay Prayer Book
Book SynopsisThis text aims to be an inspirational resource for individuals and clergy. It is written in a down-to-earth way and with an enthusiasm aiming to inspire spirituality and faith among its readers.
£23.51
SCM Press Parables of Jesus
Book SynopsisIn this text, Joachim Jeremias explores the variety of ways of interpreting the parables of Jesus, including their translation; the way different audiences altered the parables Jesus told; and the role of the New Testament writers in shaping their telling of the parables.
£25.00
Hymns Ancient & Modern Sea of Faith SCM Classics
Book SynopsisThe Sea of Faith made a huge impact when it was first published to accompany a major television series in the mid 1980's. For a generation that was embodying the ebbing of the tide of faith, it articulated the huge intellectual and cultural shifts that had resulted in most people no longer having any connection with official religion.
£21.99
SCM Press Christology in the Making
Book SynopsisThis text is designed for students and academics studying the doctrine of the incarnation. James Dunn clarifies in detail the beginnings of the belief in Christ as the Son of God and discusses the historical context of such beliefs.Trade Review‘an excellent presentation of a mass of complicated material…to be commended for its honest attempt to set Paul et al in the eschatological setting of the earliest Christian Gospel than reading their statements through the incarnational spectacles of later developments’ (Theology)
£43.00
SCM Press SCM Dictionary of Third World Theologies
Book SynopsisAn invaluable resource for all academics, students, ministers, and laypeople who are interested in theological issues from a global perspective.
£26.60
SCM Press Theological Aesthetics
Book SynopsisA useful reference for academics and lecturers seeking quick answers to questions, or quotations-set out in chronological order, covering material typical of an undergraduate course in Theological Aesthetics.Trade Review"The book is engaging. It reflects on a whole range of issues: the nature of wisdom, leadership and power, handling tradition, inclusion, hope, sovereignty...and ends with a very moving personal perspective on the Coming Of Jesus, gained by having looked death in the eye. The book really took flight after the introduction, so don't get bogged down in this, but head on through it with anticipation. And, when you get into the main part of the book, I would suggest that you start on 17 December with O Sapientia and read a chapter a day. " -- Praxis News of Worship, December 2007"We live in a turbulent time of change. Many, beyond the borders of church, are desperate for some sense of spiritual reality. Fresh expressions of church are the green shoots of the future." -- The Revd Tom Stuckey, President of Methodist Conference 2005/06"I'm colossally encouraged by the amount of activity that there seems to be around the church at the moment. There's already a huge amount going on, our job is to join in, to give it the nourishment it needs so that it will grow in the right way. I hope you will give thanks to God and get involved!" -- Dr Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury
£33.00
SCM Press A Rabbi Reads the Bible
Book SynopsisRabbi Magonet's love of the Hebrew Bible developed whilst studying to be a Rabbi. Studying the Bible became a source of comfort, challenge and religious growth, without sacrificing the importance of the scientific approaches of study. This book opens up the Bible so that all readers will find their perspective and understanding changed.Trade Review" (...)it is impossible not to admire his inventiveness and erudition.(...)These two books (A Rabbi reads the bible and A Rabbi reads the Psalms) present highly idiosyncratic, personal readings which reflect a formidable intelligence, a wild enthusiasm and an irrepressible sense of humour." Maureen Kendler, education officer with the Jewish Council for Racial Equality, JEWISH CHRONICLE, November 19 2004. "Magonet's work and methods are sufficiently well known not to require commendation, but readers who missed out on the first version will find much here to open their eyes, fresh stimulus for their thought and at the same time a very good read. For preachers looking for something fresh to say it is a bag of riches." A.Gilmore, SOCIETY FOR OLD TESTAMENT STUDY 2005. " (...) the most common effect is of imaginative yet convincing interpretation of texts which nowadays many Christians at least are liable to leave aside or use as the fancy takes them. Well, sometimes the latter approach is not without a history!" Leslie Houlden, Emeritus Professor of Theology, King's College, London, INTERRELIGIOUS INSIGHT, January 2005. "It is a useful resource for RE teachers of the sixth form of for more able Year 13 students studying exegesis in the Bible. It provides stories for teachers and will refresh an interest in reading biblical texts closely. Recommended." Jane Brooke, RE REVIEWS, Autumn 2004.
£25.98
SCM Press Concept of Biblical Theology An Old Testament Perspective
Book SynopsisBarr views Old Testament theology and New Testament theology as sub-sections of 'biblical theology' as opposed to 'doctrinal' or 'philosophical' theology. e Barr guides the reader through the various supportive and opposing arguments with his own conclusion that elements of biblical theology still have validity in theological scholarship.
£40.85
SCM Press In the End the Beginning The Life of Hope
Book SynopsisA starting point for students new to Moltmann. He examines the personal experiences in his life, in which the future is awaited, times when we search for new beginnings and find them. In three parts that correspond to birth, rebirth and resurrection, Moltmann extols the true value of Christian hope that powers new beginnings.Trade Review"Here is a strong liberal (...) with a solid, intellectually impressive faith. An old man close to death who offers those younger than him a firm, supporting hand on this strange pilgrimage here below." NEW DIRECTIONS, October 2004. "The book is of appropriage length for interested undergraduates and virtually all foreign terms and phrases are translated, which are few since he purposely avoided technical terminology, but the content is also suitable for postgraduates interested in a brief theological understanding of hope and eschatology, and the book might especially be welcome for those searching for a suitable entree into Moltmann's thought. Owing to the fact that the chapters were conceived as occasional pieces, one could read only the topically relevant chapter(s) and not lose the overall flow of the work." Ryan A.Neal, University of Edinburgh, REVIEWS IN RELIGION AND THEOLOGY, April 2005. "This little book deserves attentive reading from both the general reader and the scholar, as well as providing a useful way into the thinking of J.Moltmann for those who are unfamiliar with it." Dr A.A.K. Graham. CHURCH TIMES "This is a book about Christian hope; so it was appropriate reading in the aftermath of the Asian tsunami, and during the remembrance of Auschwitz. Does Moltmann's thinking about hope have anything hopeful to say about these two terrible happenings? Directly, no; but indirectly, a great deal. (...)The book is intended for a wide readership, and is not an academic work like God in Creation or The Crucified God; but it is a serious piece of scholarship, and it is a good but not an easy read." Philip Crowe, Oswestry, THEOLOGY, Sept/Oct 2005.
£21.99
SCM Press From Feminist Theology to Indecent Theology
Book SynopsisAiming to clarify concepts and make the authors' arguments easy to understand, this title is broken down into three sections, each with an introduction to the subject and a list of further reading. The text maps onto courses concerned with Gender Studies, Body Theology, Political Theology and Liberation Theology.
£25.98
SCM Press From Nicaea to Chalcedon
Book SynopsisA volume covering one of the most significant periods in the formation of the doctrine of the Church. A key text for all students of Patristics. Fully updated bibliographies for each chapter, subject area and writer are included.
£38.00
SCM Press Unity and Diversity in the New Testament
Book SynopsisA challenging textbook for level two and three New Testament scholars. The new material is the author's critical refinement of all the original issues covered. New Testament study, the synoptic question, and the origins of Christianity are all fundamental areas of study on theology undergraduate degrees today.Trade ReviewThis is a scholarly and detailed book, aimed originally at undergraduates and written with Professor's Dunn's usual lucid and accessible style. (...) I found it thought provoking and illuminating. I recommend it to any Readers who want to deepen their understanding of the early church and believe that they will find here ample reward for the effort involved." Janice Price, The Reader, Winter 2006, Vol.103, N°4.
£43.00
SCM Press The Metaphor of God Incarnate
Book SynopsisNew content for this new edition includes a new chapter on the nature of Christology according to the Catholic theologian, Roger Haight and a new chapter on John Macquarrie's Christology in Jesus Christ in Christian Thought, and Christology Revisited. It aims to offer a less pretentious and more credible Christology than traditional orthodoxy.Trade ReviewThe students of theology and philosophy as well as lay readers will find the book very interesting and highly readable. Hick's insights in the development of Christian culture and in other religious cultures will broaden the vision of the readers, and modify their perspectives about religion...Muslim readers will value this book for its contents supporting their stance regarding Christ...Arifa Farid, Islamic Times 1994
£23.51
SCM Press Postcolonial Imagination and Feminist Theology
Book SynopsisThis book is by an internationally recognised author who is widely regarded as one of the leading authors in postcolonial feminist studies. Written at an academic level but often takes the form of a personal account: with the resulting appeal to our crossover market of HE institutions and seminariesTable of ContentsIntroduction; Part One : Postcolonial Imagination and Feminist Interpretation; Chapter 1 Postcolonial Imagination: Historical, Dialogical and Diasporic; Chapter 2 Searching for Wisdom: Sources of Postcolonial Feminist Theologies; Chapter 3 Making the Connections: Postcolonial Studies and Feminist Biblical Interpretation; Chapter 4 Finding Ruth a Home: Gender, Sexuality and the Politics of Otherness; Part Two : Postcolonial Feminist Theological Vision; Chapter 5 Postcolonial Feminist Theology: What is it? How to do It?; Chapter 6 Political Theology : Voices of Women from the South; Chapter 7 Engendering Christ: Who Do You Say That I Am?; Chapter 8 Beyond Pluralism: Towards a Postcolonial Theology of Religions; Chapter 9 Mending of Creation: Women, Nature and Hope.
£31.56
Hymns Ancient & Modern SCM Core Text
Book SynopsisThis textbook works towards presenting Christian spirituality as an ongoing dialogue between doctrine and experience, and asserts that Christian spirituality must reflect the idea of search. It features a number of pedagogical tools to aid the undergraduate such as questions for reflection, and guides to further reading.Trade Review"God calls us to help people in every place and culture respond to the love and grace in his Son, Jesus Christ. To do that well in our time we need to grow many different fresh expressions of church life within and alongside our traditional parish churches: a mixed economy I hope that every Church Council and home group in the land will engage creatively with this material and take action as a result" Archbishop Rowan Williams
£28.00
SCM Press SCM Studyguide
Book SynopsisOffers an introduction to the area of theological study. Aimed at level one students, this work covers the main areas tackled in introductory New Testament courses, such as the contents and diversity of the New Testament, how the texts came to be written and collected, their relationship to Jesus of Nazareth, and the nature of the canon.Table of Contents1. The Worlds Which Produced The New Testament 2. What Can We Know About Jesus? 3. Studying Paul 4. Introducing Paul's Letters 5. The First Three Gospels 6. John: The 'Spiritual Gospel' 7. From The Cradle to the (Empty) Grave 8. Acts: Luke's Ongoing Story 9. The Ongoing Pauline Tradition 10. The Letter to the Hebrews 11. The Catholic Epistles 12. Revelation: Guide to the End of the World? 13. The New Testament Canon
£25.98
SCM Press Controversies in Feminist Theologies
Book SynopsisExposes the controversies within key areas of feminist theology eg Christology, ethics, prayer and the after life, the virgin Mary, hermeneutics, the body and to examine whether feminist theology is now bankrupt as both discourse and praxis. It is suitable for use on undergraduate or postgraduate courses in feminist / contextual theology.
£25.98
SCM Press Missionshaped Church A Theological Response
Book SynopsisOffering a critical response to the Mission-Shaped Church report, this title is aimed at church leaders interested in Mission-Shaped Church and educators who wish to provide their students with a balanced view. It raises questions about the concepts of Kingdom, Church, and Mission, concepts that are not distinguished clearly in the report.Trade ReviewWe are used to well argued and thoughtful writings from John Hull and this essay is no exception. (...) I commend this essay to all my colleagues in the network. Judi Hattaway
£11.66
SCM Press Christology from the Margins
Book SynopsisProvides a comprehensive queer discussion of Christology, concluding with the view of Christ's person and work from a queer perspective. Suitable for undergraduate study.
£38.00
SCM Press SCM Studyguide
Book SynopsisThe SCM Studyguide: Christian Spirituality is designed as an introduction to spirituality for students of all religious backgrounds coming to the subject for the first time.Table of ContentsIntroduction v Part 1 History 1 Appearance and Abandonment: Biblical Spirituality 4 2 Struggle and Synthesis: Patristic Spirituality 17 3 Monastery and Mystery: Spirituality through the ‘Dark Ages’ 34 4 Hierarchy and Heresy: Medieval Spirituality 51 5 Foundations for Faith: Reformation Spirituality 69 6 Revival or Retreat? Spirituality after the Enlightenment 88 Part 2 Themes and Connections 7 Encounter or Escapism? Spirituality and Experience 112 8 Contemplative Questioning? Spirituality and Science 125 9 A Kind of Knowing? Spirituality and Theology 140 10 Temple or Temptation? Spirituality and the Body 153 11 Serious about Soul? Spirituality and the Psyche 166 12 Training in Transformation? Spirituality and Ethics 185 13 Spiritual Space? Spirituality in a World of Difference 202 Conclusion 219 Bibliography 222 Index of Subjects and Key Names 247 Index of Biblical References 252
£25.98
SCM Press Matthew
Book SynopsisIntended for the clergy as well as academics and students to provide guidance in reading the Bible under the rule of faith, this title aims to recover classical theological commentary for the 21st century. It demonstrates the intellectual and practical viability of theological interpretation of the Bible.Trade Review'There will be those who find this commentary a breath of fresh air. There is certainly much to challenge and inspire Christian readers.' Biblical Literature, November 2007
£25.98
SCM Press Beyond Liberation Theology A Polemic Reclaiming Liberation Theology
Book SynopsisPresents the global socio-economic context within which liberation theologians work. This book argues that at the heart of social abandonment is idolatry, and that we do not live in a secular world anymore but an idolatrous one. It believes that poor blacks suffer more than middle class blacks, that poor women suffer more than middle class women.Trade ReviewControversial and brilliant. Petrella is one of the leading voices in twenty-first century Latin American Liberation Theology.' Marcella Althaus-Reid, PhD Chair in Contextual Theology, School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh 'Ivan Petrella's brilliant and bold book raises several timely and important challenges for future work within & about liberation theologies. He has produced a seamless and compelling integration of theology, economics, and legal theory, both addressing and stimulating debate with the major liberation theologies of the Americas. His analysis will be key for years to come.' Otto Maduro, Professor of Latin American Christianity & World Christianity, Drew University Theological School 'In this timely and well-argued book Ivan Petrella's thought gets even more incisive and original. The current state of the world requires the challenge of liberation theology because the poor are dying everywhere, not only in the so-called Third World. Theology, economics and legal theory come together in this wonderful canvas of social reflexivity; this is a book that will remain seminal to all theologians in the 21st Century.' Mario I. Aguilar, Chair of Religion and Politics, Director, Centre for the Study of Religion and Politics (CSRP), St Mary's College, University of St Andrews
£28.00
SCM Press SCM Core Text The Bible and Literature
Book SynopsisThe first textbook to engage with the crossover between the Bible and literature, covering all the key methods of literary criticism and presenting a truly inter-disciplinary approach.
£33.00
SCM Press Theology Liberation and Genocide
Book SynopsisA challenging and topical book that argues that the traditional ways of doing theology ('high theology') no longer work and that theology has to take place at the periphery rather than in the social, cultural and political centre. Suitable for undergraduate study.
£28.00
SCM Press Pope and Jesus of Nazareth
Book SynopsisThe publication of the book "Jesus of Nazareth" on 16 April, 2007 was an unprecedented event: never before had a reigning Pope published personal reflections on Jesus. This book provides essays by some of the leading scholars in Britain, continental Europe and the USA to highlight the insights and limits of the Pope's reflection on Jesus.
£60.00
SCM Press Genesis
Book SynopsisThe book "Genesis" is the first book of the Hebrew Bible. Interpreting Scripture for the twenty-first century, this title offers a commentary on "Genesis" that is suitable for preaching, teaching, study groups and individual reflection.Trade Review'The series places the accent on theologicalA" and reflects current interpretive ferment marked by growing resistance to the historical-critical project. This series holds the promise of asking interpretive questions that are deeply grounded in the primal claims of faith.'--Walter Brueggemann, Columbia Theological Seminary
£23.51
SCM Press TransFormations Controversies in Contextual Theology
Book SynopsisHighlights a range of trans lived experience [transgendered and transsexual]. This book offers theological reflection on these experiences, creates challenging theology from this experiential base, and provides a resource for churches and theology students. It is suitable for courses on religion, gender and the body.
£28.00
SCM Press Grandeur of Reason Religion Tradition and Universalism Veritas
Book SynopsisPresents a cast of contributors debating the question of universalism. This book attempts to think through the re-hellenization of Christian faith. It focuses on the importance of Christian 'truth' and the tradition of how faith and reason are bound together in the universal claim of the Gospel.
£71.25
SCM Press SCM Studyguide
Book SynopsisThe SCM Studyguide: Practical Skills for Ministry offers a practical introduction for those who are training for ministry, both lay and ordained, within the church. The book answers the questions asked by those preparing for ministry and by those who have recently started and found gaps in the way they have been prepared. The author uses real examples drawn from his experience of over 20 years of pastoral ministry, together with work in chaplaincy and broadcasting and the shared experience of others. The book covers all those aspects of ministry required within the more practical contextual areas of the course of preparation for ministry in use by mainstream denominations, such as baptisms, weddings, working with others, communication, meetings and funerals. It provides practical guidance which is soundly theologically and pastorally based.Trade Review'This is one of those books which does exactly what it says on the cover. It is not a theology of ministry, nor is it a source of models and approaches: instead, Andrew Pratt distils into a little under 200 pages a career’s worth of practical experience of the bread-and-butter issues of ministry. How soon to visit after a bereavement? How to respond when someone asks you to baptize their dog? How to arrange the seating in a meeting so as to get the best dynamic?' Roger Latham (Lancashire and Cumbria Theological Partnership)
£23.51
Hymns Ancient & Modern Talking About God in Practice Theological Action Research and Practical Theology
Book SynopsisTalking about God in Practice details the challenges and complexities of real theological conversations with practitioners, whilst providing an example of appropriate process, and a model of theological understanding by which to negotiate these complexities fruitfully.Table of ContentsIntroduction Part 1: The Problem and Emerging Responses 1. The Problem of Talking about God in Practice 2. Practical Theology as a Response 3. Action Research as a Response Part 2: A Fresh Response 4. Characteristics of Theological Action Research Part 3: Theological Action Research: The Process Explained 5. What Is Theological Action Research? 6. Who Do We Need to Be to Do Theological Action Research? 7. Setting up Theological Action Research 8. Doing Theological Action Research 9. Reflection Leading to Renewed Practice and Theology Part 4: Worked Examples of Theological Action Research 10. Theological Action Research in a Parish 11. Theological Action Research in a Diocese 12. Theological Action Research with a Faith-Based Agency Part 5: Theological Action Research: An Initial Evaluation 13. Evaluating Theological Action Research: Learning Points in Theology and Method Conclusions
£28.47
Hymns Ancient & Modern For the Parish A Critique of Fresh Expressions
Book SynopsisFresh Expressions of Church are most significant development in the Church of England. Parishes are the mainstay of the 'inherited church'. The authors demonstrate that the traditions of the parish church represent ways in which time, space, community are ordered in relation to God and the gospel.Trade Review'Davison and Milbank show how the Fresh Expressions and Emerging Church movements have compounded mistakes in soteriology and ecclesiology, generating a flight into segregation, and a flight away from tradition... [They] have produced a book of breathtaking contrasts. In terms of mood, it is simultaneously dour and lively; serious, yet amusingly and deeply ironic; punchy, yet wise; thoughtful, yet discursive... this book is something of a tour de force that really does need engaging with. It should be widely read, studied, and meditated upon: deeply.' -- Martyn Percy, * Modern Believing *
£25.00
SCM Press Church for Every Context An introduction to Theology and Practice
Book SynopsisFresh Expressions of Church are one of the most important developments within the contemporary church. There has been and continues to be much learning about how to plant Fresh Expressions of church in contemporary culture and about theological resources to support this. Church for Every Context is the first textbook that reflects this learning.Church for Every Context addresses the theology and methodology of Fresh Expressions/church planting. Topics include ecclesiology, Fresh Expressions in the New Testament, social forces behind Fresh Expressions today, theologies to underpin fresh expressions, how fresh expressions develop, the missional dynamics involved, discipleship, worship and how Fresh Expressions can be sustained and supported.Trade Review‘This is a brilliant work, and as invaluable as it is brilliant. A logical and mature continuation of the seminal Mission-Shaped Church report of 2004, Church for Every Context is the most insightful, informing, and instructive study I have seen to date on emergence ecclesiology and contextual church. It is, in sum, absolutely exhilarating both in its balanced, analytical content and in its vision for the future of the Church.’ Phyllis Tickle, author, The Great EmergenceMichael Moynagh offers both an analysis and an apology for new forms of church that is well grounded in the cultural realities of the 21st century, arguing that these emerging ecclesial communities are not only faithful to scripture and tradition, but are also characterized by a theologically grounded cultural engagement. Supported by comprehensive references and suggestions for further reflection, this book will inspire and inform newcomers to the conversation as well as those who are already a part of it. -- John DraneMichael Moynagh has produced a remarkable book that looks set to become a standard text on the fresh expressions and emerging churches that are exploring new ways of engaging contextually with a changing culture. Comprehensive in its coverage, inter-disciplinary in its approach, painstakingly researched and clearly argued, practitioners and researchers alike will find this invaluable. -- Stuart Murray WilliamsChurch for Every Context is a big book in every sense: the fruit of mature reflection and wisdom on major new movements in Church and in God's mission. It has a global and a biblical perspective on these movements. The chapters are well rooted historically and full of stories and examples of good practice. I commend it very warmly indeed to beginners in this field and to those who are experts. -- Steven CroftMike Moynagh has rendered a service to us all. He covers so much that is at the heart of our debates about the Church, her nature, ministry and mission. We can all agree with the aims he sets out: discipleship, worship and community in sustainable churches. If the way to get there as the Church of England is disputed, then this book demonstrates that a theological discussion is well and truly under way. -- Andrew Davison“Michael Moynagh is an experienced watcher of both church and culture, and this well-read, learned and thoughtful book provides an invaluable and comprehensive guide to contemporary debates over new forms of church.” -- Graham TomlinThere is no such thing as theology, and that means that there is no such thing as ecclesiology. There is only contextual theology and contextual understandings and practices of church. This is the powerful insight behind what Michael Moynagh calls the "New Contextual Churches." A Church for All Contexts is a book that shows the significance of churches that seek to incarnate "fresh expressions" of Christian community as community in mission. Moynaugh and Harrold show clearly that these new ways of thinking about and doing church are not so much innovations but movements radically faithful to Christian Tradition, most especially because they are radically faithful to the present always-changing context of faithful discipleship of Jesus Christ. This is an exciting book. Its rootedness in Tradition make it revolutionary. If you want to be a member of the church today, this book should be required reading. -- Stephen BevansMichael Moynagh has provided an excellent understanding of the background of and rationale behind the Fresh Expressions movement, highlighting many of the issues the existing church is facing in relating to a rapidly changing culture. While highly prizing the value of the traditional forms of church, he wrestles with the extent of flexibility that out to be accorded new forms of the church, while not compromising the gospel. -- Al BarthMoynagh has written an indispensable book on contextual church planting and renewal. We have needed a book like this for some time now -- a historical, theological, and sociological guide to new expressions of faith within Western culture. This is not a 'how-to' book on church renewal and planting techniques -- anything but. Moynagh does so much more than play with church forms and encourage consumer analysis. Moynagh's approach to new expressions of church is theologically rich and missiologically astute, revealing a systematic way to think about church in a post-Christendom context. I plan to use this book as a core reference text in my seminary church planting course this Fall. Highly recommended. -- Dr. Ryan K. Bolger, PhD * Fuller Theological Seminary *The book is full of many concrete examples and is wonderfully comprehensive in scope. Each chapter contains multiple "For reflection" sections, which extend critical points into critical application. Also, each chapter ends with readings for further study and a set of discussion questions. This text will broaden every reader's comprehension of new contextual churches and will challenge all to think deeply about mission, context, and church. Without a doubt, this will become the standard text for study of new contextual ecclesiology. -- Christopher Flanders * Mission Studies 31 *
£33.00
SCM Press SCM Studyguide Preaching
Book SynopsisA step-by-step guide to learning about preaching and more importantly how to craft and deliver a sermon. It offers a student-friendly, jargon-free introduction which requires no prior knowledge of the subject. Suitable for all church traditions and as a textbook in preaching and worship courses.Trade ReviewPeter Stevenson has spread a banquet before us: the table is groaning with rich food to nourish the novice preacher and sustain the seasoned practitioner. He offers us meaty questions and tasty tips, served up with multiple side servings of practical examples. This book is a veritable feast for all preachers -- Kate BruceThis thoughtful yet practical guide to the art of preaching is a brilliant resource both for those new to preaching and for experienced preachers who are looking for ideas to reinvigorate how they preach. It blends helpful theory with down-to-earth examples in such a way that captures and communicates Peter Stevenson's own passion for preaching. A must for every preacher's bookshelf. -- Paula GooderPeter Stevenson is an experienced and creative preacher and teacher of preaching. In this book he distils his wisdom in a wonderfully accessible and practical way. The plentiful examples and friendly style make this a gift for those at any stage of the preaching life, and for those who try to help and encourage them in their calling. I wholeheartedly commend it. -- Stephen I. Wright"A book that is reassuringly abreast of the latest homiletical thought while managing to be thoroughly practical. A first class introduction to the craft of preaching.” -- David DayTable of ContentsPart 1: Preaching Matters 1. Why Bother with Preaching Part 2: Preparing to Preach 2. A Journey into Three Worlds 3. Looking for Trouble 4. Preaching in Context Part 3: Designing Sermons 5. A Recipe for Preaching 6. Creating a Sequence 7. Telling A Story 8. Painting a Picture Part 4: Preaching and Performance 9. First Steps on the Preaching Journey 10. Performing the Sermon Part 5: The Preaching Life 11. The Fully-Alive Preacher
£25.98
SCM Press Theology in the Public Sphere
Book SynopsisA substantial and definitive introduction to public theology by one of the leading experts in the field. A key text for third year undergraduate modules and MA courses in Social Ethics, Political Theology and Public Theology.Trade Review'[Kim's] purpose is to provide samples of doing public theology in various contexts ... Without a doubt, Kim has succeeded in this goal ... "Theology in the Public Sphere" will, no doubt, serve as an excellent introduction to public theology, a form of theological inquiry that will only grow in importance in the twenty-first century.' -- Jonathan D. Teubner, Trinity College Cambridge
£43.00
SCM Press Jesus in the Jewish World
Book SynopsisIn this collection of occasional pieces, Geza Vermes explores the world and the context in which Jesus of Nazareth lived and tells the story of the exploration of first-century Palestine by twentieth-century scholars.
£25.98
SCM Press Love Sex and Marriage Insights from Judaism Christianity and Islam
Book SynopsisIn all three Abrahamic faiths, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, marriage is part of God's plan for humanity. In this book three scholars outline sex law, betrothal and marriage, family life and the understanding of divorce in these traditions and discuss the differences between them in a student-friendly and accessible way.Trade ReviewAn interesting book, which deals not just with sex law, marriage, family life, and divorce, but also such issues as polygamy, intermarriage, and divorce. Highly informative, at times it is also provocative, when such issues are raised such as ‘Are Christian marriages more stable’ or should we ‘celebrate’ divorce. -- Ministry Today, Sept-Dec 2015
£22.64
SCM Press A Brief Theology of Sport
Book SynopsisSport is extremely popular. This ground-breaking book explains why. It shows that sport has everything to do with our deepest identity. It is where we resonate with the most-basic nature of reality. A Brief Theology of Sport sweeps across the fields of church history, philosophy and Christian doctrine, drawing the reader into a creative vision of sport. The book begins with an examination of how the Church has approached sport in the past, before turning to consider sport on the basis of the divine act of creation. In doing so, Harvey is able to distinguish sport from all other human activities, identifying it as a set-aside sphere in which the unnecessary-but-meaningful nature of life is celebrated. This constructive proposal is used to shed light on a wide range of issues in sport, including the role of competition, professionalization and celebrity culture today. As such, A Brief Theology of Sport constitutes a significant contribution to our understanding of the value of sport in Trade Review"Both thought-provoking and intelligent, as well as ground-breaking, witty, informative and very down-to-earth." -- Benedict SSF * Franciscan Vol.27 *Table of ContentsPart 1: Historical Soundings 1. Ancient Sports and Religion 2. Classical Sports and Religion 3. The Early Church's View of Sport 4. Case Study (I): Sport and the Medieval Catholic Church 5. Case Study (II): Sport, Puritans and Muscular Christians Part 2: Analytic Soundings 6. Notes on Sport: A Working Definition 7. Towards a Christian Theology of Sport 8. The Liturgical Celebration of Contingency: A Brief Theology of Sport 9. Exploration and Explanation: Seven Avenues for Further Thought 10. Concluding Comments: Christians and Sport Today
£25.98