Christianity Books

Book SynopsisPractical theology has become a well-established academic discipline in Britain and Ireland over the past half century, evidenced in its chairs, journals, books, conferences, and contribution to transformed practices. The British and Irish Association for Practical Theology (BIAPT) and its journal, Practical Theology, has had a significant role to play in the story of the discipline.This volume is a celebration of practical theology in Britain and Ireland in all its inventiveness and variety on the occasion of BIAPT's twenty-fifth birthday. It offers an account of its roots in its emergence from the Scottish Pastoral Association in the 1960s, its trajectories established in the journal Contact/Practical Theology and how human experience has been a constant companion on the journey. The book considers a range of methodologies including engagement with popular culture, public theology, the arts, and the importance of conversation. It explores new shoots in Table of ContentsIntroduction Part I: Roots 1. Soil, roots and shoots: the emergence of BIAPT 2. Keeping Contact: traditions and trajectories of British and Irish practical theology as evidenced in the history of BIAPT’s journal 3. The human face of God: notes on a journey through practical theology Part II: Methodologies 4. Theology in practice, in an age of wizards, hobbits and vampires 5. Creative arts-based research methods in practical theology: constructing new theologies of practice 6. No longer ‘speaking truth to power’ 7. Conversations in practical theology Part III: Pluralities 8. Shoots of equal marriage and partnership in the Church of England: a harvest rooted and nurtured through practical theology 9. Doing diaspora practical theology: insights into how culture, ethnicity and national identity shape theological practices and expressions of UK-African diaspora churches 10. Pluralising practical theology: international and multi-traditional challenges and opportunities 11. Practical Theology on the Island of Ireland Part IV: Challenges 12. The ubiquity of ignorance: a practical theological challenge of our time 13. Back to the future: intercultural, postcolonial and inter-religious streams in practical theology 14. What comes next? Practical theology, faithful presence, and prophetic witness

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Book SynopsisOriginally published in 1953, The Birth of Christianity analyses the development of Christian doctrine and the establishment of the Church.The book traces the history of the formation of the Church as a new religious society and considers its development both in the realm of thought as well as on a social level, in both emotional life and moral action. It explores how the Christian faith first found expression in society through a variety of forms that were gradually assimilated into one system of doctrine, and examines both how Christian theology and dogma were formed, and how the Church developed its constitution. The Birth of Christianity will appeal to those with an interest in the history of religion, the history of Christianity, theology, and the philosophy of religion. Table of ContentsIntroduction; Part One: The Creation of a New Object of Religious Devotion; 1: The Birth of the Belief in the Resurrection of Jesus; 2: The Birth of the Faith in the Resurrection; Part Two: The Failure of Christianity to Develop in the Framework of Judaism; 1: The Church at Jerusalem up to A.D. 44; 2: The Church in Jerusalem after A.D. 44; 3: Apostolic Christianity after A.D. 44; Part Three: The Development of Christianity within the Framework of Hellenism. The Beginnings of Christian Doctrine; 1: Stephen and the Hellenists of Jerusalem; 2: The Church at Antioch; 3: The Apostle Paul and Paulinism; Part Four: The Stabilisation of Christianity and the Formation of its Doctrine; 1: Towards Stabilisation; 2: The Conflict Between Jewish and Gentile Christianity; 3: Deuteropaulinism; 4: The Epistle to the Hebrews; 5: The Johanne Theology; 6: Christianity as an Ethical Religion in the Epistle of James and the Didache; 7: The Pre-Catholicism of Clement of Rome; 8: Heresies; 9: Towards Early Catholicism; Part Five: The Reactions Provoked by the Preaching of the Gospel; 1: The Problem; 2: The Reactions of Palestinian Judaism to the Preaching of the Gospel; 3: The Reactions of the Jews in the Diaspora and the First Interventions of Rome Prompted by Them; 4: Christianity and the Roman Empire; 5: How Christianity Reacted to Persecution; Appendix

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Book SynopsisMedieval Monasticism traces the Western Monastic tradition from its fourth-century origins in the deserts of Egypt and Syria through the many and varied forms of religious life it assumed during the Middle Ages. It explores the relationship between monasteries and the secular world around them.For a thousand years, the great monastic houses and religious orders were a prominent feature of the social landscape of the West, and their leaders figured as much in the political as on the spiritual map of the medieval world. In this book many of them, together with their supporters and critics, are presented to us and speak their minds to us. We are shown, for instance, the controversy between the Benedictines and the reformed monasticism of the twelfth century and the problems that confronted women in religious life. A detailed glossary offers readers a helpful vocabulary of the subject. This fifth edition has been revised by Janet Burton to include an updated bibliTable of Contents1. The call of the desert 2. The rule of St Benedict 3. Wandering saints and princely patrons 4. England and the continent 5. The emperor and the rule 6. The age of cluny 7. The cloister and the world 8. Monastic reform: The quest for the primitive 9. The Cistercian model 10. The new monasticism versus the old 11. A new kind of knighthood 12. Sister or handmaids 13. The Friars 14. Epilogue: The individual and the community

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Book SynopsisThe study is an intellectual and comparative history of French, Spanish, and English missions to the native peoples of America in the seventeenth century, c. 1610â1690. It shows that missions are ideal case studies to properly understand the relationship between religion and politics in early modern Catholic and Calvinist thought. The book aims to analyse the intellectual roots of fundamental ideas in Catholic and Calvinist missionary writingsâamong others idolatry, conversion, civility, and policeâby examining the classical, Augustinian, neo-thomist, reformed Protestant, and contemporary European influences on their writings. Missionariesâ insistence on the necessity of reform, emphasising an experiential, practical vision of Christianity, led them to elaborate conversion strategies that encompassed not only religious, but also political and social changes. It was at the margins of empire that the essentials of Calvinist and Catholic soteriologies and political thought could be enacted and crystallised. By a careful analysis of these missiologies, the study thus argues that missionariesâ common strategiesâhabituation, segregation, social and political regulationsâstem from a shared intellectual heritage, classical, humanist, and above all concerned with the Erasmian ideal of a reformation of manners. Table of ContentsIntroduction: 1. Custom as Ethos and Habituation: Native Paganism and Idolatry 2. Conversion: Will, Grace and Good Works 3. Nomadic Lifestyles: Civility, Law, and Godly Government 4. Assimilation versus Segregation: Two Competing Missiologies 5. Community Building: Commonwealth and Christian Missions 6. Conflict: Rejection of European Political and Religious Authority. Conclusion. Index.

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Book Synopsis"A masterpiece of contemporary Bible translation and commentary."—Los Angeles Times Book Review, Best Books of 1999Trade Review"The most compelling version of [the David] story since the King James Bible." -- Robert Fagles

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Book SynopsisFifty Key Christian Thinkers provides both valuable information and stimulating debate on the lives and work of fifty of the most important Christian theologians. This guide provides an overview of Christian theology from the emergence of the faith 2000 years ago to the present day. Among the figures profiled in this accessible guide are:* St Paul * Barth * Aquinas * Boethius* Niebuhr * Calvin* Luther * Feuerbach* Kierkegaard * OrigenTrade Review"The book's strength is its accessible format and focus, which doesn't require any background knowledge. One usually doesn't get this kind of compact, introductory information in one place. An extremely handy reference for public and academic libraries." - Library Journal'The book's strength is its accessible format and focus... One usually doesn't get this kind of compact, introductory information in one place.' - Library Journal'Selecting just 50 from among all the Christian thinkers who lived over the last two millennia is a difficult task... McEnhill and Newlands have made excellent choices in this book.' - Library JournalTable of ContentsAbelard; Anselm; Aquinas; Arius; Athanasius; Augustine; John & Donald Baillie; Barth; Boethius; Bonhoeffer; Bultmann; Brunner; Calvin; Cappadocian Fathers; Duns Scotus; Feuerbach; Forsyth; Frei; Gutiérrez; Harnack; Hegel; Herrman; Hick; Irenaeus; Justin Martyr; Kant; Kierkegaard; Küng; Luther; Moltmann;Newman; Niebuhr; Ockham; Origen; Pannenberg; Paul;Rahner; Reimarus; Ritschl; Ruether; Schleiermacher;Strauss; Tertullian; Tillich; Tracy; Troeltsch; Zwingli

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Book SynopsisHailed by Andre Gide as the patron saint of all outsiders, Simone Weil's short life was ample testimony to her beliefs. In 1942 she fled France along with her family, going firstly to America. She then moved back to London in order to work with de Gaulle. Published posthumously The Need for Roots was a direct result of this collaboration. Its purpose was to help rebuild France after the war. In this, her most famous book, Weil reflects on the importance of religious and political social structures in the life of the individual. She wrote that one of the basic obligations we have as human beings is to not let another suffer from hunger. Equally as important, however, is our duty towards our community: we may have declared various human rights, but we have overlooked the obligations and this has left us self-righteous and rootless. She could easily have been issuing a direct warning to us today, the citizens of Century 21.Trade Review'We must simply expose ourselves to the personality of a woman of genius, of a kind of genius akin to that of the saints.' - T.S. Eliot in the Preface'What is required if men and women are to feel at home in society and are to recover their vitality? Into wrestling with that question, Simone Weil put the very substance of her mind and temperament. The apparently solid edifices of our prepossessions fall down before her onslaught like ninepins, and she is as fertile and forthright in her positive suggestions . . . she can be relied upon to toss aside the superficial and to come to grips with the essential and the profound.' - Times Literary SupplementTable of ContentsPreface by/T. S. Eliot -- Translator’s Foreword -- PART I The Needs of the Soul -- Order -- Liberty -- Obedience -- Responsibility -- Equality -- Hierarchism -- Honour -- Punishment -- Freedom of Opinion -- Security -- Risk -- Private Property -- Collective Property -- Truth -- PART II Uprootedness -- Uprootedness in the Towns -- Uprootedness in the Countryside -- Uprootedness and Nationhood -- PART III The Growing of Roots.

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Book SynopsisWhen he was 26, the great psychoanalyst and philosopher Erich Fromm abandoned Judaism, though he himself was descended from a long line of rabbis and the product of a devout Jewish upbringing. The title essay of this collection was first published in 1930, just four years after he made that first, decisive split. It was to point towards the future Fromm's work, presenting the view that an understanding of basic human needs is essential to the understanding of society and mankind itself. The following essays too, show a man who would eventually establish himself as a major thinker, producing some of that era's most influential and astute political works.Trade Review'The problems - individual, social, and methodological - that Fromm addresses in his various writings are, if anything, more serious and urgent today, hence the timeliness of this welcome Routledge Classics edition.' - David M. Wulff, Wheaton College, MassachusettsTable of ContentsPreface to the Routledge Classics Edition, Preface, 1 The Dogma of Christ, 2 The Present Human Condition, 3 Sex and Character, 4 Psychoanalysis—Science or Party Line?, 5 The Revolutionary Character, 6 Medicine and the Ethical Problem of Modern Man, 7 On the Limitations and Dangers of Psychology, 8 The Prophetic Concept of Peace, Index

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Book SynopsisThis concise volume introduces readers to the three main sections of the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) and to the biblical books found in each. It is organized around two primary stories: the story that scholars tell about the Old Testament and the story the literature itself tells. Concluding with a reconsideration of the Old Testament as more like poetry than a story, three main chapters cover: The Pentateuch (Torah) The Prophets (NeviÊim) The Writings (Ketuvim) With key summaries of what the parts of the Old Testament are all about, and including suggestions for further reading, this volume is an ideal introduction for students of and newcomers to the Old Testament.Trade Review‘An excellent introduction to the Old Testament! Strawn delightfully guides readers through both the content of the books in the Hebrew Bible and the most current questions in biblical scholarship. No background knowledge is presumed, and no other introduction to the Old Testament is as readable. Students and teachers alike will appreciate Strawn’s jargon-free and undogmatic discussion of debates among scholars, his humor and literary sensitivity with biblical prose and poetry, as well as his attention throughout to the diversity and complexity of issues that face all readers of biblical literature.’ — Davis Hankins, Appalachian State University, USA‘Brent A. Strawn’s The Old Testament: A Concise Introduction is a tour-de-force that provides an exceptional orientation to the "lay of the land" stretching before students as they set out to explore the texts of the Hebrew Bible. Strawn overviews the content of the Old Testament with a balance of detail, clarity, and wit, while also presenting an outstanding up-to-date primer to the long history of biblical interpretation that students will meet in the classroom. Strawn is an expert field guide who welcomes readers with unrivaled sensitivity and care for detail, and his book will inspire thoughtful, critical engagement with the biblical text for years to come, in both undergraduate and seminary settings.’ — Kelly J. Murphy, Central Michigan University, USA ‘Aimed at first-time readers of the Old Testament, Brent Strawn’s Concise Introduction is a highly readable, accessible, and reliable guide to the rich anthology of literatures that make up the Old Testament. Readers will come away from this book with a much deeper appreciation of the complexity, the sophistication, and the compelling nature of the Old Testament as an ancient but timeless word that proves timely for each new context and generation. Strawn helps us see how the Old Testament may be read paradoxically "as if" it were a grand, coherent story and "as if" it were unsettled, open-ended poetry, constantly sparking new questions and avenues of interpretation.’ — Dennis Olson, Princeton Theological Seminary, USATable of Contents1 The Story of the Old Testament and the Old Testament as Story 2 The Pentateuch (Torah) 3 The Prophets (Neviʾim) 4 The Writings (Ketuvim) 5 From Story to Song

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Book SynopsisReligions in the Modern World: Traditions and Transformations, Third Edition is the ideal textbook for those coming to the study of religion for the first time, as well as for those who wish to keep up-to-date with the latest perspectives in the field. This third edition contains new and upgraded pedagogic features, including chapter summaries, key terms and definitions, and questions for reflection and discussion. The first part of the book considers the history and modern practices of the main religious traditions of the world, while the second analyzes trends from secularization to the rise of new spiritualities. Comprehensive and fully international in coverage, it is accessibly written by practicing and specialist teachers. Trade Review"We often throw a word like 'modern' around, as if we know what it means, or as if there were only one way of getting to or being modern. The present collection of essays on the religions and modernity (and on the modern study of religion) is a powerful reminder that we usually do not know what we are talking about, and that there are multiple religious modernities, each with their own specific political, colonial, economic, psychological, moral, and secular nuances. The volume is a model of comparative theorizing done precisely and deeply."Jeffrey J. Kripal, Rice University, USATable of ContentsIntroduction - Linda Woodhead. 1. How to Study Religion - Kim Knott. 2. Hinduism - David Smith. 3. Buddhism - Cathy Cantwell and Hiroko Kawanami. 4. Sikhism - Gurinder Singh Mann. 5. Chinese Religions - Stephan Feuchtwang. 6. Judaism - Seth Kunin. 7. Christianity - Linda Woodhead. 8. Islam - Anna Bigelow. 9. Religion in Africa - Mark Faulkner. 10. Native American Religions - Kenneth Mello. 11. Spirituality - Giselle Vincett and Linda Woodhead. 12. Paganism - Graham Harvey. 13. Contemporary Esotericism - Kennet Granholm. 14. New Religious Movements - Douglas E. Cowan. 15. Religion and Migration - Manuel Vásquez. 16. Religion and Politics - Paul Djupe. 17. Religion and Violence - Ian Reader. 18. Religion and Gender - Linda Woodhead. 19. Religion and Popular Culture - Christopher Partridge. 20. Secularism and Secularization - Grace Davie, Rebecca Catto, and Linda Woodhead

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Book SynopsisAt the start of the 21st century, scandal and controversy concerning sexual misconduct by priests has effectively shaken the Catholic Church. In this title, therapist and former priest, A.W. Richard Sipe examines the issue of celibacy in the priesthood.Trade Review"Now that the celibate cat is out of the bag, so to speak, there is a deep and pressing need for the kind of professional expertise and wisdom that Richard Sipe can provide--expertise and wisdom born not only of study and reflection, but also of years of experience as a priest and psychotherapist. Because of the efforts of persons like himself, there is hope that the 'secret world' of clerical celibacy and sexuality will eventually be transformed into what he calls a 'better world'." -- from the foreword by Richard P. McBrienTable of ContentsForeword by Reverend Richard P. McBrien PART I.BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT 1. WHY STUDY CELIBACY? Sex/Celibacy: Breaking the taboo · The broader context · The study: what it is and what it is not · Reasons for this study 2. WHAT IS IT? Factors of the Crisis · The meanings of celibacy · Abstinence · Law and ideal · Christ the ideal · Love · Definition of Celibacy 3. HOW DO THOSE WHO PROFESS CELIBACY PRACTICE IT? Levels of Observation · Numerical Summary · Estimates of Sexual Behavior · NarrativesPART II. PRACTICE VERSUSPROFESSION 4. THE MASTURBATIONS Nature · Pathology · Maturity and immaturity · Nocturnal emissions · Fasting · Spontaneous emissions · Vice and virtue · Guilt 5. PRIESTS AND WOMEN The heterosexual presumption · Splitting and secrecy · Heterosexual relationships · Heterosexual behaviors · Patterns of association 6. WHEN PRIESTS BECOME FATHERS Births · Abortion 7. THE HOMOSEXUALITIES Homosexualities and the clergy · Denial of the homosocial structure · The male matrix · The system of secrecy · Developmental questions and variations · Alcoholism · Acquired immune deficiency syndrome · Homosexuality and mental health 8. SEXUAL COMPROMISES What is normal? · The place of women · Fear of women · What is pornography? · Exhibitionistic behavior · Transvestism · Priests and animals · Suffering and sexual violencePARTIII. THE HEART OF THE CRISIS 9. PRIESTS AND MINORS What is pedophilia? · Frequency of Occurrence · Social ramifications of abuse · Causes · Avenues of access · Behaviors · Victims-the aftermath · Treatment · Awareness of the problem · The future 10. WHO ABUSES? Psychological profile · Categories of vulnerability · Four case studies 11. CAN CLERGY SEXUAL ABUSE BE PREVENTED? Screening · Denial · Ecclesiogenic factors · Systemic elements · Mandatory celibacy · Ethical code · Impediments to ethical definitions · Elements of a code of sexual ethicsPART IV. PROCESS AND ATTAINMENT 12. LIVING WITH CELIBACY What is the process of celibacy? · Developmental relationships · Internalization · Temporal stages 13. THE ACHIEVEMENT OF CELIBACY Essential elements of celibate achievement · Who will follow? · The crisis of abuseEPILOGUE: DIMENSIONS OF THE CRISIS The seven pillars of the crisisReferencesIndex Acknowledgments About the Author

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Book SynopsisFrom celebrated translator of the Hebrew Bible Robert Alter, the 'groundbreaking' (Los Angeles Times) book that explores the Bible as literature, a winner of the National Jewish Book Award. Renowned critic and translator Robert Alter's The Art of Biblical Narrative has radically expanded our view of the Bible by recasting it as a work of literary art deserving studied criticism. In this seminal work, Alter describes how the Hebrew Bible's many authors used innovative literary styles and devices such as parallelism, contrastive dialogue, and narrative tempo to tell one of the most revolutionary stories of all time: the revelation of a single God. In so doing, Alter shows, these writers reshaped not only history, but also the art of storytelling itself.

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Book SynopsisThree decades ago, renowned literary expert Robert Alter radically expanded the horizons of biblical scholarship by recasting the Bible as not only a human creation but a work of literary art deserving studied criticism. In The Art of Biblical Poetry , his companion to the seminal The Art of Biblical Narrative , Alter takes his analysis beyond narrative craft to investigate the use of Hebrew poetry in the Bible. Updated with a new preface, myriad revisions, and passages from Alter''s own critically acclaimed biblical translations, The Art of Biblical Poetry is an indispensable tool for understanding the Bible and its poetry.Trade Review"One of the most interesting studies of poetic technique I have read in years."-New York Times Book Review"

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Book SynopsisA leading Catholic intellectual explains why the teachings of the Second Vatican Council are essential to the Church's future—and the world'sThe Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) was the most important Catholic event in the past five hundred years. Yet sixty years after its opening on October 11, 1962, its meaning remains sharply contested and its promise unfulfilled.In To Sanctify the World, George Weigel explains the necessity of Vatican II and explores the continuing relevance of its teaching in a world seeking a deeper experience of freedom than personal willfulness. The Council’s texts are also a critical resource for the Catholic Church as it lives out its original, Christ-centered evangelical purpose.Written with insight and verve, To Sanctify the World recovers the true meaning of Vatican II as the template for a Catholicism that can propose a path toward genuine human dignity and social solidarity.

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Book SynopsisThrough two years of ethnographic fieldwork at a megachurch, sociologist Sarah Diefendorf investigates the ways in which the evangelical church is working to grow during a time in which cultural shifts are leading young people to leave religion behind. In order to expand, the church has revisited topics long understood as external threats to the organization, such as feminism, gender equality, racial inclusivity, and queer lifetopics Diefendorf classifies as the imagined secular in the minds of evangelicals. The Holy Vote shows, however, that the church continues to uphold already privileged identities even as it reworks its messages to appear more welcoming, offering insight into how White evangelical understandings about sex and families have shaped a political movement that has helped remake the Republican Party and transform American politics. In this enlightening work, Diefendorf highlights the complex origins of these understandings and considers their intersections with contemTrade Review"A keenly perceptive ethnographic study. . . . it should attract a wide range of readers, not just those interested in sociology of religion or White evangelicals, but anyone interested in the endurance of social inequalities." * Social Forces *Table of ContentsContents Acknowledgments 1. Good and Godly in Trump’s America 2. The Fear of Religious and Cultural Decline 3. The Imagined Secular: Confronting Feminism, Gender, and Family Life 4. White Evangelicals: Emotion Work and Racial Inequality 5. Sacred Sex: Marriage and Heterosexuality 6. We Aren’t the Extremists: Same-Sex Marriage and Changing Ideas of Sin 7. Enduring Inequalities in Unsettled Times Appendix A: Navigating Prayer, Positionality, and Institutional Review Appendix B: Participant Overview Notes References Index

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Book SynopsisAdam and Eve were not the first man and woman on Earth, but they were certainly the first of a kind. When the Israelites made their exodus from Egypt, their spiritual leader was not Moses, but Miriam - a queen and high priestess of the pharaonic succession. Joseph, the father of Jesus, was not a humble carpenter, but a trained alchemical metallurgist of the highest order. These and other contentious facts are disclosed for the first time in this remarkable study of the original kings - the early Pendragons, the unique royal ancestors of King David and Jesus.Drawing on files and hitherto secret archives of the ancient Dragon Sovereignity, Genesis of the Grail Kings tells the ultimate story of earthly kingship from its early Mesopotamian foundation. It reveals why the Messianic bloodline was so important, and explains in detail the true heritage of the Holy Grail. The author draws comparisons throughout between the biblical scripture and the historical documents from which Trade Review'A truly groundbreaking piece of work. The complicated and vast material is handled superbly...absolutely mindblowing!' * Science of Thought *'Epic in its scope and implications. A controversial work, but one whose time has surely come' * Nexus *

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Book SynopsisLearning Biblical Hebrew can be extremely difficult. Here at last is a book designed to work in conjunction with the many Hebrew Grammars available in order to break this complex language down into bite-size chunks for revision and consolidation of key aspects of grammar, as well as vocabulary.A.A. Macintosh and C.L. Engle combine insights from teaching Hebrew in both the United States and Europe, and between them bring some fifty years of experience of teaching Hebrew to undergraduate students to this clearly structured book.Trade ReviewThe T&T Clark Hebrew Primer For Revision and Consolidation by A.A. Macintosh with C.L. Engle is a very welcome addition to the corpus of works which seek to instruct English speakers who already have a basic or rudimentary knowledge of Hebrew. It has been designed as a supplementary aid to solidify the intricacies of Hebrew grammar in the minds of students no matter what instructional Hebrew Grammar they have been using, and/or to resurrect Hebrew for those who have learned it in the past and who need help to bring it back again. The Primer is equally useful for English speakers on both sides of the Atlantic; for example, it gives correct Hebrew vowel pronunciations using both British English and American English examples. The Primer is clearly set out in a logical manner, moving from vowels to nouns and adjectives to strong and weak verbs, and includes a vocabulary of the most commonly occurring words in the Hebrew Bible. I heartily recommend this book for anyone who is interested in brushing up on their biblical Hebrew. * Judith Hadley, Villanova University, USA *or the beginning student this primer provides an excellent didactic aid with the central principles of Hebrew grammar and the basic biblical vocabulary and for the more advanced student it serves as an effective tool in rehearsing these areas. It is a pleasure to use the book, even to read it in one breath, as it includes modern parallels, helpful tables, memory aids, and mnemonics and is written in a attractive style. The two experienced University teachers who wrote this book have placed students of Hebrew in their debt. * Emanuel Tov, Hebrew University, Jerusalem *How quickly Hebrew, once learnt, can be forgotten; and how often do students regret it later on when they realize how valuable it is for understanding the Bible. Now at last we have a concise but clear Primer to trace the pathway back to a working knowledge of the language. And all this from the hands of experienced teachers who know how to spice the text with enlivening features which they have discovered help the difficult bits to 'stick'. The approach has been successfully tested privately over many years; how fortunate we are that now they have put it into the hands of every willing student. * H. G. M. Williamson, University of Oxford, UK *There are many students and teachers of the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible who should welcome this Primer by Macintosh and Engle. It summarizes the basic features of Biblical Hebrew grammar in convenient form, adding simple explanations, occasional mnemonics, and sidelights that will connect with information that the user already possesses (e.g., Hebrew [or sometimes Arabic] names; well-known terms in modern Hebrew). This compact presentation will prove ideal as a DIY refresher course for all those whose grasp of the basics needs strengthening. * Robert Gordon, University of Cambridge, UK *Table of Contents1. Preliminary Notes 2. Nouns: Summary of Categories 3. Verbs 4. Weak Verbs 5. The Definite Article 6. The Interrogative Particle 7. Inseparable Prepositions 8. The Conjunction waw 9. Waw Consecutive 10. Simple waw with Imperfect 11. Vocabulary

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Book SynopsisDom Basil Watkins has edited this work on behalf of the Benedictine Monks of St. Augustine's Abbey, Chilworth (formerly Ramsgate), UK.Trade ReviewAn excellent source of biographical information on the saints... which contains entries for all who have been canonized or beatified by the Church to date... Libraries will want this exceptional book to modernize their reference collections on the saints. * Catholic Library World *The eighth edition - "entirely revised and reset" - of an invaluable reference work. * Catholic Herald *..."a comprehensive biographical dictionary" edited by Basil Watkins OSB... if sanctity could be purchased or pondered by pounds and ounces, this book is twice the bargain... * Review for Religious *A useful reference work for anyone who teaches theology or religious studies, for members of the clergy, for monasteries and reliigous houses, and for those interested in Christian history... this is a standard reference work, now brought up to date to reflect more recent developments in the Church and in scholarship. * Fr Ambrose Bennett, Christian B. Peter Librarian, St Louis Abbey, MO, USA *The current edition of this work, which records the biographies of Catholic saints, introduces new information while building on its numerous predecessors (the first edition was published in 1921, the seventh in 2002) … Integration of the Church's two liturgical calendrical sources for the first time in English, and the inclusion of deleted entries from past works along with the reasons for this action, make this full revision the authoritative compendium without peer, useful for all those dealing with church history. Summing Up: Essential. Advanced undergraduates through researchers/faculty; general readers; professionals/practitioners. * CHOICE *Table of ContentsList of Illustrations Introduction Abbreviations Saints: entries A to Z Bibliography List of Websites Glossary List of National Martyrs

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Book SynopsisThis textbook provides complete and comprehensive coverage of the theological tradition of Aquinas, Maximus, Luther, Irenaeus, Lonergan, von Balthasar, Schmemann, Meyendorf and Barth. Each section of this textbook explores a wide variety of questions who are we? Is there a God, and if so, what is his nature? Who is Jesus? What does it mean that we live both in sin and righteousness? It consists of 15 modules that are comprised of 46 chapters. Each module has two parts: there are systematic chapters that discuss and explain each module's topic; and the final chapter of each module examines 4 to 6 primary sources that are important for each topic. This textbook includes an extensive range of pedagogical features: - Sample tests in which each objective question has been quality tested by classroom use (with a discrimination index) - A discussion guide for each chapter - Learning objectives linked to each chapter - The text includes bold-faced terms, boxed text sections thatTrade ReviewThis is the sort of theology book Thomas Aquinas envisioned: it brings all that belongs to the Christian faith into a full account that flows ‘according to the subject matter.’ The great tradition comes alive here, in a depth that inspires rather than wearies or confuses. His use of a dialectic of history and ‘message’ is a model for theologians today. A true teacher’s book, and a book that invites students of theology into a rich, ancient, and always regenerating conversation about and with the God of scripture. * ANTHONY D. BAKER, Professor of Theology, Seminary of the Southwest, Austin, Texas *My long search for the ‘perfect’ textbook of Christian theology may have come to an end. Cone’s book is pedagogically brilliant, comprehensive, balanced, informed, clearly argued, and well-illustrated. Guided by the Great Tradition, it is ecumenical and committed, critical and faithful, traditional and current. Cone’s work is an astounding achievement to be welcomed by every teacher and student of Christian theology. * RON HIGHFIELD, Pepperdine University, USA *In Theology from the Great Tradition, Steve Cone provides readers with a full introduction to the theological discourse that stretches from the first century to the twenty-first century. Building upon his earlier work, Cone here offers a robust study that will be beneficial to students and scholars alike. * CHRIS KEITH, St. Mary’s University, UK *Few are the books that aid students in building an approach to Christian theology from the ground up, but Cone’s volume here does just that with skill and with a wide compass. He considers afresh the authorization of the theological quest through scripture, tradition, reason, and experience, while also addressing what we are actually ‘doing’ when we ‘do’ theology. Cone also wonderfully solicits the guidance of historic Christian thinkers, and the wisdom of a diverse range of contemporary theologians, to explore the enduring themes of Christian thought and life. This book bursts the bounds of a primer, but in its breadth and depth is sure to be an excellent textbook for college and seminary courses. * PAUL M. BLOWERS, Milligan College, USA *Table of Contents1. Introduction A. Theology and the Great Tradition B. How to Use this Book MODULE 1: THEOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS 2. Theological Method 3. Theological Authorities 4. Scripture 5. Historical Section I: Inspiration and Interpretation of Scripture A. Augustine B. Jerome C. A. A. Hodge D. James Orr E. Donald Bloesch F. Summary G. Discussion questions H. Chapter bibliography MODULE 2: THEOLOGICAL AUTHORITIES 6. Reason 7. Tradition 8. Experience 9. Historical Section II: Faith and Reason A. Clement of Alexandria B. Tertullian C. Augustine D. The Belgic Confession E. Benedict XVI F. Summary G. Discussion questions H. Chapter bibliography MODULE 3: DOCTRINE OF GOD 10. God 11. Historical Section III: Proofs of God’s Existence A. Anselm of Canterbury B. Thomas Aquinas C. Blaise Pascal D. Summary E. Discussion questions F. Chapter bibliography MODULE 4: THE TRINITY 12. The Trinity 13. Historical Section IV: The Trinity A. Irenaeus B. Gregory of Nyssa C. Augustine D. The 11th Council of Toledo E. Leonardo Boff F. Summary G. Discussion questions H. Chapter bibliography MODULE 5: THE WORK OF GOD 14. Creation 15. Providence 16. Historical Section V: God and Creation A. Irenaeus B. Tertullian C. Origin D. Augustine E. Bonaventure F. Anselm G. Summary H. Discussion questions I. Chapter bibliography MODULE 6: HUMAN BEINGS 17. The Image of God 18. The Human Good 19. Historical Section VI: Human Nature and Destiny A. Gregory of Nyssa B. John Scotus Eriugena C. Hildegard of Bingen D. Mechthild of Magdeburg E. Emil Brunner F. Mary Hayter G. Summary H. Discussion questions I. Chapter bibliography MODULE 7: SIN 20. The Origin of Sin 21. The Nature of Sin 22. Historical Section VII: Sin and Freedom A. Irenaeus B. Augustine C. Pelagius D. John Cassian E. Julian of Norwich F. Giovani Pico della Mirandola G. Reinhold Niebuhr H. Summary I. Discussion questions J. Chapter bibliography MODULE 8: THE PERSON OF CHRIST 23. The Person of the Christ 24. The Incarnation 25. Historical Section VIII: The Incarnation A. Tertullian B. Athanasius C. Cyril of Alexandria D. Leo I E. T. F. Torrance F. Summary G. Discussion questions H. Chapter bibliography MODULE 9: THE WORK OF CHRIST 26. The Work of Christ 27. Historical Section IX: The Work of Christ A. Irenaeus B. Athanasius C. Maximus the Confessor D. Anselm E. Peter Abelard F. Vladimir Lossky G. Summary H. Discussion questions I. Chapter bibliography MODULE 10: THE HOLY SPIRIT 28. The Person of the Holy Spirit 29. The Work of the Holy Spirit 30. Historical Section X: The Holy Spirit A. Basil B. Augustine C. Cyril of Alexandria D. Michael Green E. John Paul II F. Summary G. Discussion questions H. Chapter bibliography MODULE 11: SALVATION 31. Grace and Freedom 32. Divinization 33. Historical Section XI: Justification and Sanctification A. Martin Luther B. Philipp Melanchthon C. John Calvin D. John Wesley E. Richard Watson F. Vatican II G. Summary H. Discussion questions I. Chapter bibliography MODULE 12: THE CHURCH 34. The Church 35. Ministry in the Church 36. The Heavenly Host 37. Historical Section XII: The Church A. Ireneaus B. Martin Luther C. Vatican II D. John Zizioulas E. Stanley Hauerwas F. Summary G. Discussion questions H. Chapter bibliography MODULE 13: SACRAMENTS 38. Sacraments 39. The Sacrament of Water 40. The Sacrament of Bread and Wine 41. Historical Section XIII: The Sacraments A. Cyril of Jerusalem B. Martin Luther C. The World Council of Churches D. Alexander Schmemann E. Rowan Williams F. John Paul II MODULE 14: ETERNAL LIFE 42. Heaven 43. Death 44. Millennium and Tribulation 45. Historical Section XIV: Last Things A. Theophilus of Antioch B. Augustine C. Catherine of Sienna D. Jeremy Taylor E. C. S. Lewis F. Kathryn Tanner G. Summary H. Discussion questions I. Chapter bibliography MODULE 15: CHRISTIANITY AND THE WORLD RELIGIONS 46. Christianity and the World Religions 47. Historical Section XV: Christianity and the World Religions A. Basil B. C. S. Lewis C. Vatican II D. John Hick E. Clark Pinnock F. Leslie Newbingen G. Summary H. Discussion questions I. Chapter bibliography 48. End matter A. Recommended bibliography B. Indices i. Subject ii. Name iii. Scripture C. Endnotes

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A Helsinki-based researcher of early Jewish and Christian movements, Shkul presents a slightly revised version of her December 2007 Ph.D. dissertation at the University of Sheffield. She examines how the epistle deliberately shapes emerging Christianness by providing ideological and social paradigms for the community of Christ-followers. Part of that, she explains, is positioning the group in a Jewish symbolic universe, which is reconfigured to make room for Jesus Christ and his non-Israelite followers, and modelling the group after Israel as God's people. Among her topics are a theoretical framework for exploring social remembering and communal legitimation, the communal functions of remembering Christ, and a theoretical framework for exploring communal social orientation." -Eithne O'Leyne, BOOK NEWS, Inc."This volume examines how the letter to the Ephesians engages in social entrepreneurship, that is, the deliberate shaping of emerging Christianness by providing ideological and social paradigms for the community of Christ-followers. After a 42-page introduction, it develops a theoretical framework for exploring social remembering and communal legitimation, and presents readings of Ephesians 2 ('remembering Christ' and its communal functions) and Ephesians 3 (remembering Paul and communal legitimation). Then it provides a theoretical framework for exploring communal social orientation, and presents a reading of Ephesians 4-6 (prototypes and antitypes--paradigms for social orientation). Shkul concludes that Ephesians responded to its diverse cultural matrix by self-enhancing discourse and compelling imagination which invented traditions of Jesus' messiahship and non-Israelite election and led its readers to imagine blessedness and God's favor." -New Testament Abstracts, Vol. 54Shkul's work is a fine example of the usefulness of social-scientific perspectives and tools for NT study. -- Journal for the Study of The New Testament, Volume 33 Number 5Shkul's work provides an astute, although highly dense, look at Ephesians best suited for readers with a great deal of familiarity with social scientific theories as well as the particularities of Ephesians. -- Religious Studies ReviewMentioned in the Church TimesTable of ContentsPART ONE: CONSTRUCTING IDENTITY Chapter 1 - INTRODUCTION PART TWO: LEGITIMATING IDENTITY Chapter 2 - THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK FOR EXPLORING SOCIAL REMEMBERING AND COMMUNAL LEGITIMATION Chapter 3 - READING EPHESIANS 2: REMEMBERING CHRIST & ITS COMMUNAL FUNCTIONS Chapter 4 - READING EPHESIANS 3: REMEMBERING PAUL & COMMUNAL LEGITIMATION PART THREE: POSITIONING IDENTITY Chapter 5 - THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK FOR EXPLORING COMMUNAL SOCIAL ORIENTATION Chapter 6 - READING EPHESIANS 4-6 PROTOTYPES AND ANTITYPES: PARADIGMS FOR SOCIAL ORIENTATION Chapter 7 - CONCLUSIONS

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Book SynopsisThe earliest traditions around the narrative of Jesus' resurrection are considered in this landmark work by Dale C. Allison, Jr, drawing together the fruits of his decades of research into this issue at the very core of Christian identity. Allison returns to the ancient sources and earliest traditions, charting them alongside the development of faith in the resurrection in the early church and throughout Christian history. Beginning with historical-critical methodology that examines the empty tomb narratives and early confessions, Allison moves on to consider the resurrection in parallel with other traditions and stories, including Tibetan accounts of saintly figures being assumed into the light, in the chapter Rainbow Body. Finally, Allison considers what might be said by way of results or conclusions on the topic of resurrection, offering perspectives from both apologetic and sceptical viewpoints. In his final section of modest results he considers scholarly approTrade ReviewThe Resurrection of Jesus is a book which will probably become standard reading for everyone interested in the great challenge of studying the events of Easter from a historical viewpoint. * The Heythrop Journal *One of the greatest strengths of this book is Allison’s willingness, time and again, to take seriously the reality of religious experience ... [A] masterful book * Biblica *This is the best book on the historical and exegetical problems surrounding the resurrection that I know of. Nowhere else will one be informed by such comprehensive, discriminating, and fair-minded judgment regarding the exegetical and historical discussion of Jesus' resurrection. I have learned much from this great book. * Gerd Theissen, Professor Emeritus of New Testament Studies, University of Heidelberg, Germany *This book is the product of the deep and wide reflections of a preeminent scholar. Allison is refreshingly transparent and honest. Some will accuse him of being too pessimistic. Others will charge him with not being skeptical enough. If he is guilty of either, he cannot be faulted for accepting easy answers or of neglecting any arguments. Although I remain persuaded that historical inquiry can yield greater confidence pertaining to what happened to Jesus after his death than Allison allows, this volume is a fair-minded assessment of the data and is scholarship at the highest level. * Michael R. Licona, Associate Professor of Theology, Houston Baptist University, USA *This is the most interesting and illuminating piece of writing on the resurrection of Jesus that I have ever read. * Joel Marcus, Professor Emeritus of New Testament & Christian Origins, Duke Divinity School, USA *This is a book of massive erudition around the resurrection, the real events that may well lie behind it, and how to read its popular New Testament residues and cross-cultural parallels. Allison engages the full power and depth of contemporary biblical criticism to show that the scriptural accounts are relatively thin but nevertheless intriguing documents for the responsible historian and can reasonably be read faithfully or skeptically. The originality, even genius, of the book lies in how he then turns to other independent literatures to “think in parallels,” playing, for example, well-documented Marian apparitions and angelic, bereavement, and near-death contacts off the early New Testament accounts or the Buddhist rainbow body off the empty tomb, always with a double refusal to fall into either easy debunking reduction or naïve literalist belief. The result is a shocking book that troubles one’s certainty, whatever that certainty happens to be, and advances a profound humility before one of the most important mysteries of the history of religions. It turns out that the questions of “what really happened” or, more basic still, “what a body is” are much more complicated than is normally thought or believed. * Jeffrey J. Kripal, Associate Dean of the School of Humanities and J. Newton Rayzor Professor of Philosophy and Religious Thought, Rice University, USA *For anyone who wants to wrestle seriously with what to think about Jesus of Nazareth and with the history of scholarship on this matter, the writings of Dale Allison offer more food for thought, from more angles of vision, than any other recent author I know of. The Resurrection of Jesus, now venturing to bring his expertise to bear on the standard arguments of Christian apologetics and counter-apologetics, will again be an indispensable aid to those who, from within a faith perspective or in search of one, find themselves in pursuit of genuine inquiry. * Stephen Wykstra, Professor of Philosophy Emeritus, Calvin College, USA *Table of ContentsForeword Part I. Setting the Stage 1. Overture 2. Options Part II. Historical-Critical Studies 3. Formulae and Confessions 4. Appearances and Christophanies 5. The Story of the Tomb: Friday 6. The Story of the Tomb: Sunday 7. Resurrected Holy Ones? 8. Rudolf Pesch Redivivus? Part III. Thinking with Parallels 9. Apparitions: Characteristics and Correlations 10. Visions: Protests and Proposals 11. Enduring Bonds 12. Rainbow Body 13. Cessationism and Seeing Jesus 14. Zeitoun and Seeing Mary Part IV. Analysis and Reflections 15. Some Tenuous Arguments: Apologetical 16. Some Tenuous Arguments: Skeptical 17. Inferences and Competing Stories 18. Overreach and Modest Results Coda Index

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Book SynopsisDeclan Kelly holds a PhD in systematic theology from the University of Aberdeen, UK.Trade ReviewKelly has authored a very fine and surprising study of Barth’s mature ‘report’ on the devil and God’s triumph over all his works in the theology of the Church Dogmatics. His close reading of Barth’s soteriology and his insightful analysis of the prominence and significance of this theme is as compelling as it is unsettling of received opinions, and rightly reminds us of the biblical depth and complexity of the Swiss theologian’s dogmatic programme. -- Philip G. Ziegler, University of Aberdeen, UKIn this engaging and lucid volume, Declan Kelly demonstrates that the role of the Third Agent extends further into Karl Barth’s soteriology than has previously been understood. His work will be instructive well beyond the confines of Barth scholarship. In particular, students of Pauline theology will find much that is of interest, particularly regarding Barth’s articulation of the relationship between cross and resurrection. Highly recommended! -- Beverly Roberts Gaventa, Princeton Theological Seminary, USADeclan Kelly subjects Barth's soteriology in Church Dogmatics to a fresh and remarkable interpretation. He points to a cosmological depth dimension of Barth's soteriology and shows that, in the wake of the doctrine of election, Barth conceives the doctrine of salvation as a three-agent drama. As a result, this study succeeds in uncovering, among other important things, new patterns of continuity (especially with CD III/3, §50 and CD IV/3, §69) that have been overlooked in the previous exclusively forensic interpretation of CD IV/1, §59. This book represents an important contribution to Barth research. -- Matthias D. Wüthrich, Universität Zürich, SwitzerlandKelly has provided a compelling reading of Barth’s theology as a ‘cosmological apocalyptic’ three-agent soteriology. Throughout the book Kelly has a keen eye for the difficulties, lacunae, and sometimes inconsistencies that might lead readers to think otherwise, to place Barth as a predominantly ‘forensic apocalyptic’ two-agent theologian. * Studies in Christian Ethics *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Election and the Defeat of Satan Chapter 3 The Judgement of Satan's World Chapter 4 God's Covenant with Death Chapter 5 God's Eschatological Justification Chapter 6 Conclusion Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisRichard Walsh is Womack Professor of Religion and Philosophy at Methodist University, USA.Trade ReviewThe volume provides a helpful survey of the issues addressed and methods used in biblical film criticism. * European Journal of Theology *This handbook, comprised of essays written by the leading scholars in the field, truly showcases the current state of Jesus film studies and, crucially, the possible futures of the field. Richard Walsh has brought together a collection that forms an indispensable source on the scholarship of the manifold cinematic imaginings of Jesus, Christ, and other messianic figures, not only for scholars of theology and religion, but also for media and cultural studies scholars. * Laura Copier, Utrecht University, the Netherlands *Richard Walsh’s exhaustively researched and sharply observed handbook examines how and why artists from around the world have appropriated the figure of Jesus as well as the symbol of Christ, emerging with a plurality of Screen Saviors. The result —an adroit anthology that captures, with bracing clarity, the Nazarene’s enduring legacy within our culture — is riveting. * Darren J. N. Middleton, John F. Weatherly Professor of Religion, Texas Christian University, USA *Scholars of film and religion interested in the person of Jesus will find plenty of insights in the individual chapters expertly collected and curated by Walsh. * Journal of Religion and Film *Table of ContentsList of Figures List of Contributors Introduction: The Jesus Film Tradition - Richard Walsh, Methodist University, USA Part One: The Jesus Film Tradition 1. Obscure Gospel Elements in Jesus Films - Peter T. Chattaway, film critic, Canada 2. “Who Do you Say That I Am?” Responses to Cinema Sequences of the Woman Taken in Adultery - Peter Malone, Catholic priest and teacher, Australia 3. One Hundred Years of Cinematic Attempts at Raising a Stiff (Jn 11:1-46) - Jeffrey L. Staley, retired, Seattle University, USA 4. Seeing Differently with Mary Magdalene - Michelle Fletcher, King’s College London, UK 5. Inculturation and Actualization: Rabah Ameur-Zaïmeche’s Histoire de Judas - Reinhold Zwick, University of Münster, Germany 6. Through Other Eyes: Point of View and Defamiliarization in Jesus Films - Steven D. Greydanus, Decent Films, USA 7. The First Seventy Years of Jesus Films: A Canonical, Source-Critical History - Jeffrey L. Staley, retired, Seattle University, USA 8. Reading the Gospel(s) in the Dark: The Gospel Effect - Richard Walsh, Methodist University, USA 9. The “False Syllogism” of Archaeological Authenticity in Jesus Movies - Kevin M. McGeough, University of Lethbridge, Canada 10. Jesus of Cinecittà - Matthew Page, BibleFilmsBlog, UK 11. Three Revolutionary Gospel Films: By the People, with the People, and for the People - Lloyd Baugh, retired, Gregorian University Rome, Italy 12. Jesus in a Modern Contemporary Context - Freek L. Bakker, retired, Utrecht University, the Netherlands 13. Miéville, Godard, and Dolto: The Psychoanalysis of Mary and Joseph - Anne Moore, Calgary University, Canada 14. From the New Testament to The Brand New Testament: Moving Beyond “Jesus” Films - Caroline Vander Stichele, University of Tilburg, the Netherlands Part Two: Other Jesuses, Christs, Messiahs, Sons of Men … 15. “Walk[ing] upon that Gospel Highway”: Experiencing Physical Pilgrimages, Places, and People in The Gospel Road: A Story of Jesus - James M. Cochran, Hartwick College, USA 16 Scorsese’s Jesus: Christology in The Last Temptation of Christ and Silence - Rhonda Burnette-Bletsch, Eastern University, USA 17. Obviously, It’s a Christ-figure Movie…Or is It? - Robert K. Johnston, Codirector of the Reel Spirituality Institute, Fuller Theological Seminary, USA 18. Sacred Subtexts and the Biblical Buttressing of Klaatu as a Christ Figure in The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951) - Anton Karl Kozlovic, Flinders University, Australia 19. Guillermo del Toro’s El laberinto del fauno (Pan’s Labyrinth) and the Subversion of the Cinematic Jesus/Christ figure - Matthew S. Rindge, Gonzaga University, USA 20. Failed Christ Figures in Québec Films - Adele Reinhartz, University of Ottawa, Canada 21. (Un)Holy Saturday - Tina Pippin, Agnes Scott College, USA 22. The Bible in the Star Trek Universe (2000-19) - Larry J. Kreitzer, University of Oxford, UK 23. A Modest Proposal for Christ-Figure Interpretations: Explicated with Two Test Cases - Richard Walsh, Methodist University, USA 24. Messianism and the Horror Film: Transcendence and Salvation in The Mist and Martyrs - Brandon R. Grafius, Ecumenical Theological Seminary, USA 25. “It’s Alive!”: Frankenstein and His Horrible Fellows as Messianic Figures - Robert Paul Seesengood, Albright College, USA 26. Founding the New Old State: Messianic Cowboys on the Frontiers of Europe and America - Ward Blanton, University of Kent, and James Crossley, St. Mary’s University, UK 27. Lars and the Real Girl as a Son of Man Story - George Aichele, retired, Adrian College, USA Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThomas Goodwin has been described as ''the forgotten man of English theology'' and, though known by some as a pioneer of congregationalism and a prominent member of the Westminster Assembly, the true significance and scope of his life's work has only recently been discovered. Historical reassessment has uncovered that the majority of Goodwin's treatises were intended to form a grand project defending Reformed soteriology in the 1650s against new threats as well as traditional opponents. Examining Goodwin's notion of union with Christ in relation to mystical indwelling, transformation, justification and participation, this study demonstrates the central role of union with Christ in Goodwin's soteriology. The application of salvation, he contended, must be founded on real' union with Christ (i.e., mystical union forged by Christ's indwelling) in order to advance a trinitarian, federal, high Reformed soteriology in which redemption from sin is set within a Reformed scheme of ChristocentriTrade ReviewJonathan Carter has produced a deeply thoughtful and nuanced study of Thomas Goodwin’s unconventional soteriology. In what is in many ways an exemplary examination of post-Reformation theology, Dr Carter’s contextualised reading of this congregationalist giant offers a model for students and mature academics to imitate. Here is a book that offers balanced engagement with current scholarship, and with the writings of Goodwin’s own mentors, colleagues, and opponents. Historians and theologians alike will find in Thomas Goodwin on Union with Christ a work that is enormously stimulating and enlightening. T&T Clark is to be commended for publishing a monograph that displays the fruits of wide reading and careful scholarship, and which will surely offer an essential reference point for studies of both Goodwin and puritan soteriology for years to come. -- Chad Van Dixhoorn, Westminster Theological Seminary, USAJonathan Carter’s monograph, at the forefront of this research, moves Goodwin scholarship forward with great strides. * Scottish Journal of Theology *Table of ContentsChapter 1 The Importance of Goodwin’s Doctrine of Union with Christ Chapter 2 The Reality of Union with Christ in his Mystical Indwelling Chapter 3 Real Union with Christ and the Reality of Transformation Chapter 4 Real Union with Christ and the Reality of Justification Chapter 5 Partaking of Christ: the Centrality of Real Union with Christ Chapter 6 Conclusion and Assessment Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewJan-Olav Henriksen has produced a valuable resource for the church as it struggles to bring Christian faith to bear fruitfully on the climate crisis. He offers a deep dive into the power of symbols to engender consistent action – including political action – for transformation toward ways of living that allow earth’s climate systems to flourish. This book will be invaluable in the academy and in the church. -- Cynthia D. Moe-Lobeda, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary of California Lutheran University, USAThe late Ursula K Le Guin argued that if we going to think ourselves out of the current problems of climate change and globalization, we are going to need more speculative fiction writers. This means we need new symbols with which to imagine our planetary futures. This book is important because it critiques the underlying theological symbols of western style democracies and economics that are, in the era of the Anthropocence, quite simply deficient. We need new, planetary ways of imagining human-God-Earth relations that suggest we (and all things human) are emergent from the process of planetary evolution. -- Whitney Bauman, Florida International University, USATable of ContentsIntroduction: The Deficit Thesis and the Task It Presents Part 1: Contexts for the Symbol Deficit Chapter One: From Acts of God to the Anthropocene Chapter Two: Culprits for the Predicament Chapter Three: Consumer Idolatry Chapter Four: Religion in Denial Chapter Five: To Empower Those Who Suffer and Give Voice to Those Who Lack It Part 2: Conditions for symbolic practices Chapter Six: Symbols as Mediating Practice Chapter Seven: Conditions for Agency: A Critique of Modernity’s Detached Subject Chapter Eight: Symbols for Enhancing Moral Motivation and Avoiding Defection Chapter Nine: An Inductive, Experientially Oriented Theology Part 3: Symbols for Practices Chapter Ten: God as Creator - A Critical Symbol? Chapter Eleven: From Anthropos to All of Creation Chapter Twelve: Symbolic Deficits in Apocalypticism – Towards a Presentist Eschatology Chapter Thirteen: Sin Chapter Fourteen: Symbols for Hope – A Critical Evaluation Chapter Fifteen: Sacrifice, Hope, and Grace Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisJudith Merkle is Professor of Religious Studies at Niagara University, USA.Trade ReviewClearly we receive far more than a simple “sense of the Spirit” in this masterful integration and reflection on the evolution of the theology and lived practices of religious life in the Church both for today, and for many days to come. -- James Bretzke, S.J., John Carroll University, USAWhile religious life is thriving in certain parts of the Church, in Europe and North America it is experiencing widespread lack of appeal to new members and appears to be only a shadow of its former vital self. Building on her earlier studies of religious life and charism, Judith Merkle has given us an indispensable examination of the crisis religious life faces in the post-conciliar Church and in a world that has become dull to a sense of transcendence. This wise and hope-filled examination is must reading for men and women leaders of religious communities, their members, and all who treasure the rich heritage of religious life. -- John J. Burkhard, O.F.M. Conv., the former Washington Theological Union, USAA richly challenging book which engages with significant contemporary theology in a reflection on religious life surviving beyond traditional cultural and religious interpretive patterns. Merkle’s analysis offers hope and vision in uncertain times. An essential read for those continuing to believe in the value of the consecrated life. -- Gemma Simmonds CJ, Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology, UKTable of ContentsIntroduction Part I: Foundations Chapter One: The Unfolding Seed Chapter Two: The Niche of Religious Life Chapter Three: Beyond Survival Part II: Toward the Future of Religious Life Chapter Four: The Vows in Secular Culture Chapter Five: Adult Christian Living in Secular Culture Chapter Six: Adaptations in a New Environment Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewAt last, a full-length monograph on Oliver O'Donovan's remarkable theology of political authority. Jonathan Cole does us a great service in this comprehensive, clearly-written and constructively critical account of O'Donovan's political thought. Both seasoned readers of O'Donovan and newcomers to his corpus will find this an invaluable companion. -- Jonathan Chaplin, Institute for Christian Studies, CanadaThis book is no doubt a significant step in the ongoing reception of O’Donovan’s political theology, developing a detailed and carefully argued critique of O’Donovan’s account of political authority. To his credit, Cole does not let his overall sympathy and appreciation stand in the way of critical examination and disagreement. -- Guido de Graaff, St Augustine College of Theology, UKThe Reign of God provides a clear map of the logic of O’Donovan’s theology of political authority, a lucid understanding of the alternatives that troubled him, and a constructive resolution to his theology's internal contradictions. By thinking with and beyond O’Donovan, this book makes a distinctive contribution to Christian political theology. -- Aristotle Papanikolaou, Professor of Theology, Archbishop Demetrios Chair of Orthodox Theology and Culture, Co-founding director, Orthodox Christian Studies Center, Fordham University, USATable of ContentsIntroduction Chapter 1: Oliver O’Donovan’s English-language Reception and Theopolitical Influences Chapter 2: Government-as-Judgment: An Exposition of O’Donovan’s Theology of Political Authority Chapter 3: Does Israel Reveal the Essence of Political Authority? Chapter 4: Romans 13: 1–7 and the Christological “Re-authorisation” of Political Authority Chapter 5: Salvation-History, Biblical Theology and Political Authority Chapter 6: The “Providence Thesis” and Its Theodicy Implications Chapter 7: O’Donovan’s (Conservative) Christian Liberalism Chapter 8: Providence and the Created Order: The Ontological Tension in the Accounts of Political Authority in Resurrection and Desire Chapter 9: The Redemption of Political Authority and Its New Historical Bene Esse as the Work of Divine Providence Conclusion Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisKeun-joo Christine Pae is Associate Professor of Religion/Ethics and Women's and Gender Studies at Denison University, USA.Kathleen T. Talvacchia is an Independent Scholar based in New York, USA. She was previously Associate Professor of Ministry and Theology at Union Theological Seminary, USA, and Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs at New York University Graduate School of Arts and Science, USA

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Book SynopsisMonsignor Michael Nazir-Ali is director of the Oxford Centre for Training, Research, Advocacy and Dialogue, UK.Trade ReviewMichael Nazir-Ali draws on his own experience as a bishop in Pakistan and the UK, as Head of a major mission society, and as a theologian of immense experience of dialogue with other traditions and faiths. In so doing, he reflects on what is and has been characteristic of the English church tradition. The result is a wide canvas indeed in which insights and examples drawn from missiology, ethics, church history and inter-faith dialogue, liturgical development and sacramental theology, constitutional theory and cultural understanding all find a place. * Michael Langrish, Bishop of Exeter 2000-2013, UK *Father Michael writes as a member of the Ordinariate in the Catholic Church. His lived experience of Islam, as well as his familiarity with the situation of the English Churches in a rapidly secularising culture makes it possible for him to offer an authentic Catholic commentary that is both prescient and challenging. This volume reflects these qualities. * Father Alexander Sherbrooke, St Patrick’s Catholic Church, UK *Michael Nazir-Ali, one of 21st-century Christianity's noble spirits, makes the terms "evangelization" and "inculturation" come alive in this insightful study of the history of Christian England, which teaches valuable lessons about being a Church permanently in mission -- a Church in which everyone accepts the responsibilities of a missionary vocation and everywhere is mission territory. * George Weigel, Ethics and Public Policy Center, USA *As always, Michael Nazir-Ali writes clearly and engagingly. He has a gift for illustrating a big picture with detailed examples. He combines a passion for mission with concern for faith and order and for the moral/social implications of Christian discipleship - all within a realistic view of history and a hope that lies beyond history. The story of Ecclesia Anglicana is long and clearly unfinished; one pressing question for all who value the elusive concept of “Anglican patrimony” is how that patrimony can best be cherished and developed for future generations. In the light of the current fragmentation of the Anglican Communion, impaired communion within the Church of England itself and the innovation of the Ordinariates perhaps we might hope for a second edition in a few years’ time. * John Hind, Bishop emeritus of Chichester, UK *Table of ContentsIntroduction Why This Book Was Written and What Is in It? Chapter 1 Ecclesia Anglicana: The Beginnings of Mission and Evangelisation Chapter 2 Learning from the Past: Mission and the Evangelical and Catholic Revivals Chapter 3 Learning Today and Planning for Tomorrow Chapter 4 Incarnational Presence? Chapter 5 Going Walkabout: Peregrination and Mission Chapter 6 Identification, Inculturation, and Dialogue Chapter 7 Are There Limits to Inculturation? Chapter 8 Prophetic Ministry, Social Responsibility and Action Chapter 9 Why Evangelize and What Is Evangelism Anyway? Chapter 10 The Ordinariate: A Way to Unity? Chapter 11 Summing It All Up Bibliography General Index Scripture Index

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Book SynopsisThe New York Times bestselling author of Chase the Lion reveals seven powerful habits that can help you tackle God-sized goals by turning yesterday’s regrets and tomorrow’s anxieties into fuel for a better today.“This book will change the trajectory of your life.”—John Maxwell, #1 New York Times bestselling author, entrepreneur, and leadership expertToo many people delay, downsize, or shrug off their dreams just because they don’t know where to start, but playing it safe doesn’t account for the massive cost of a life not fully lived. Win the Day is the jump-start you need to go after your goals, one day at a time. You’ll discover how to:1. Flip the Script: If you want to change your life, start by changing your story.2. Kiss the Wave: The obstacle is not the enemy; the obstacle is the way.3. Eat the Frog: If you want God to do the super, you’ve got to do the natural.4. Fly the Kite: How you do anything is how you’ll do everything.5. Cut the Rope: Playing it safe is risky.6. Wind the Clock: Time is measured in minutes; life is measured in moments.7. Seed the Clouds: Sow today what you want to see tomorrow.As Batterson unpacks each of these daily habits, you’ll see how simple it is to pursue them with focus and dedication—not someday down the road, but now. Transform your perspective of a single day and you’ll discover the potential waiting to be grasped at the beginning of each new sunrise.

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Book SynopsisLive with freedom and abundance as you freshly discover the cross of Jesus through the powerful stories and biblical insights of influential preacher and musician Josh White.?[A] vision of gospel hope.??John Mark ComerDesperation reverberates at the very center of our anxious age. Despite our fiercest efforts, we never seem to find the meaning, depth, and beauty we long for. Where do we turn? There are so many voices promising happiness and endless ladders for us to climb toward a wholeness we can?t seem to reach.Yet what if what we are looking for has already come down to us?In Stumbling Toward Eternity, writer, pastor, and recording artist Josh White offers confessional stories and theological insights as he interprets the pain of his own past, the complicated ?mixture? of the present, and the beautiful uncertainty of the future through the lens of grace. Using crisp and honest prose, he reveals why the most familiar symbol of Christianity?the cross of Jesus?is also the most misunderstood. He shows us why the goal of our desperate existence is not arriving at perfection or success but knowing the crucified Christ.The cross is not something to climb toward status. It is something to die on. It is where illusions die and wounds are healed. The cross is where the crucified God speaks over us words that bring freedom. Freedom from futility. Freedom to live with hope. Freedom to truly love.When we lose and find ourselves in the cross of Jesus, we discover that even the most dissonant notes of life can be redeemed in His song, even as we stumble toward eternity.

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Book SynopsisThe saints were the original social justice advocates. This stunning collection of contemporary portraits celebrates their diversity and spiritual depth as never before, accompanied by thoughtful reflections from bestselling and influential writers.?This book is profound, insightful, and beautifully disruptive.??Sarah Bessey, author of the New York Times bestsellers A Rhythm of Prayer and Jesus FeministOver the centuries, the rich diversity and relevance of the saints has been whitewashed, their images portrayed as expressionless, and the lessons of their lives watered down. But artist, writer, and modern iconographer Gracie Morbitzer is painting the truth. The Modern Saints is a celebration of the divergence of ethnicities, ages, abilities, and practices of spiritual pilgrims who transformed the world, and an invitation to connect with historical icons whose lives have astonishing and inspiring relevance for our present-day.Each entry of this striking collection features a contemporary image ofthe saint, a re-imagining of the space they might hold in society today, and an inspiring prayer to honor each figure. Readers will appreciate each contribution from our current generation''s spiritual thought leaders that illuminate the impact and wisdom each historical saint offers us today.Among forty-eight additional spiritual reflections and original paintings, The Modern Saints presents:? Fr. James Martin?s reflections on the flexibility of St.Ignatius of Loyola to encounter God in everyday life? Tsh Oxenreider''s unique appreciation for the endurance of St. Monica with her strong-willed children? Dr. Christena Cleveland''s praise for St. Catherine of Alexandria?s fight for intersectional justice? Kirby Hoberg?s inspiration from the resilience of St. Kateri?the first indigenous American to be canonized?who overcame personal humiliation to cultivate love in her communityWith its unique portraits and compelling narrative, this 52-week collection is perfect for devotional reading, as it will move, encourage, and strengthen each reader as they find solidarity and profound belonging within the host of saints.

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling author of Kisses from Katie takes you on a journey through Scripture to discover more about who God is and how much He loves you, in 52 weeks of power-packed devotional readings.In a world of uncertainty, we can find peace in knowing that the God who carried His people through the desert, the God who calmed the seas, the God who promised His presence, is still our God today.In this unique five-day-a-week devotional, featuring a flexible format that adapts to your schedule, Katie Davis Majors invites you into a yearlong experience of immersing yourself in the truth of who God is. As Katie has discovered, the more time we spend understanding the richness, beauty, and kindness of God, the more quickly our hearts turn toward Him with our needs and our secrets, our hurts and our longings.Our Faithful God Devotional will help you draw daily closer to the One who sees you, who loves you, and who holds each moment in His hands.

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Book Synopsis* Provides an overview of the debates surrounding postmodernism and its impact on theology. * Powerfully critiques the works of central figures in contemporary theology and philosophy including Derrida, Serres, Marion and Lacoste. * Cosolidates Blackwella s contribution in such cutting edge debates. .Trade Review"Highly recommended." Fergus Kerr, Blackfriars, Edinburgh "After Writing establishes Catherine Pickstock as one of the most promising young theologians in the English-speaking world. The book is insightful, provocative, and of consistently high scholarly quality." L. Gregory Jones, Duke University "I applaud the thesis of this impressive work." Paul Avis, Center for the study of the Christian Church Exeter "One could in conscience recommended this volume only to the ambitious and determined, but they will find it rich, and Pickstock is a name to be watching for." William C. Placher, Christian Century "Catherine Pickstock, has perhaps written the best riposte yet to the archbishop's request for a 'spiritual space' within the Millennium Dome." C. W. Kemp "Pickstock's discussion of Derrida is sophisticated." Bryan D. Spinks, Yale University "Lightning may now be said to have struck in the form of Catherine Pickstock's After Writing, a bright flash in the sometimes murky world of religion and Postmodernism." David Williams, Religion & Literature "its theses are destined to be the subject of much discussion." Tracey Rowland, Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge "Her argument deserves to be widely discussed: it is genuine theology, an example of what might be done were Christian theologians to abandon idolatry and take seriously the reality of the triune God to whom their work is supposed to be subject." Paul Griffiths, University of Chicago "The proposal of a radical self-surpassing giftedness in the eucharist invites the possibility of future conversations with other hermeneutical positions." David Livingston, Mercyhurst College "This a book of real originality, and in its finest moments it achieves an almost visionary intensity ... She is extraordinarily gifted, and I suspect that in this book we have merely glimpsed her portent." Pro EcclesiaTable of ContentsPart I: The Polity of Death:. 1. Socrates Goes Outside the City: Writing and Exteriority. 2. Spatialization: The Middle of Modernity. 3. Signs of Death. Transition: "Can My Eating Slake Your Hunger": The Evacuation of Liturgy. Part II: The Sacred Polis:. 4. I Will Go Unto the Altar of God: The Impossible Liturgy. 5. Seraphic Voices: The Space of Doxology. 6. The Resurrection of the Sign. Conclusion. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis history of the great heretical movements of the middle ages provides an account of the dissent and protests made against the Medieval churches of Rome and Byzantium. It examines the origins and nature of these heresies, and how medieval churchmen grappled with deviation.Table of ContentsPart I: The Beginnings. 1. The Problem with Heresy. 2. The Revival of Heresy in the West: The Eleventh Century. Part II: The Twelfth Century. 3. Orthodox Reform and Heresy. 4. Heretical Preachers and the Rise of Catharism. 5. The Waldensians and the Deepening Crisis. Part III: Heresy and the Church. 6. The Counter-Attack: Innocent III to Innocent IV. 7. The Cathars. 8. The Waldensians After the Conference of Bergamo. 9. Tension and Insecurity: Gregory X to John XXII. 10. Inquisition and Abuse. 11. Spiritual Franciscans and Heretical Joachimites. Part IV: Evangelical Heresy in the Late Middle Ages. 12. Church and Society: Benedict XII to Eugenius IV. 13. John Wycliff. 14. The English Lollards. 15. The Bohemian Reform Movement. 16. Politics and Hussitism, 1409-1419. 17. Success and Failure: From the Defenestration to the Agreement at Jihlava. 18. The Unitas Fratum and the Development of Confessions. 19. Medieval Heresy and the Reformation. 20. Heresy and Reform.

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