Theology Books

Book SynopsisThis text reflects on the centuries-old debate in Christianity: how do we reconcile the existence of evil in the world with the goodness of an omnipotent God, and how does God's omnipotence relate to people's responsibility for their own salvation or damnation?

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Book SynopsisIn this original work, Moshe Halevi Spero makes a two-pronged effort to integrate the psychological and religious perspectives of contemporary psychoanalytic object relations theory with the system of Jewish ethics known as Halakhah. Religious Objects as Psychological Structures represents the first comprehensive theoretical and clinical integration of psychology and Judaism within the larger understanding of the religious nature of psychotherapy and the psychotherapeutic nature of religion. By constructing a halakhic metapsychology within which psychological phenomena can be given specific halakhic identities, Spero arrives at a unique perspective on the development of religious objects and God representations. He traces two lines of development: one for relationships between humans, anthropocentric, and another for relationships between God and humans, deocentric. The second aspect of his argument is that these two distinct but parallel lines allow one to conceptualize the revolution

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Book SynopsisA fresh exploration of the themes of God's unknowable nature and participation in God through Christ, approached from a Trinitarian standpoint.Trade Review"Borysov's book adeptly summarizes recent work on patristics, Reformation studies, and modern Eastern Orthodoxy in order to provide guidance for our understanding of Paul's concept of theosis or deification. His fresh analysis and his new term, triadosis, beautifully capture the most fruitful strand of thought on deification: human beings are meant to share in the relational life that characterizes the Father, Son, and Spirit. I recommend this book enthusiastically." Donald Fairbairn, Robert E. Cooley Professor of Early Christianity, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary "Borysov's study does a marvelous job in exploring the trinitarian dimensions of theosis in Pauline interpretation in church history. The strength of this monograph lies in its probing survey of the fathers, the reformers, and modern theologians, orienting the reader to a multi-faceted treatment of the topic through trinitarian lenses. Borysov's work is an important contribution in the re-appropriation of theosis as interpersonal communion with the triune God, who transforms the faithful into the likeness of the tri-personal divine community through grace." Ashish J. Naidu, Associate Professor of Theology, Talbot School of Theology "A rich study that rewards the reader over and over by its clear engagement of vast theological and historical themes. Eduard Borysov offers us a compelling account of the summum bonum of our transformation and union with God that is robustly trinitarian, biblically faithful and wise in the present currents of Pauline scholarship." Mark R. Saucy, Professor of Theology, Talbot School of Theology Borysov's correlation of the Reformers to the patristic sources proves a welcome addition for those wishing to track themes of deification across ecclesial divides. His concluding chapters take deification back to Pauline texts and indicate ways to correlate a wide variety of interpretations of those materials. Kirsten Guidero, inModern Believing, April, 2023Table of ContentsPreface | ix Abbreviations | xi Chapter 1: Introduction | 1 Outline and Sources | 3 Methodology | 4 Potential Hermeneutical Objections | 6 Limitations of This Project | 11 Recent Scholarship on Theosis in Paul | 13 Chapter 2: Early Approaches to Theosis | 18 Introduction | 18 Apotheosis | 19 Christosis | 39 Triadosis | 55 Energeosis | 71 Conclusion | 81 Chapter 3: Reformers and Triadosis | 84 Introduction | 84 Traditional Lutheran and Calvinist Interpretations | 85 Luther and Deification | 88 Calvin and Deification | 102 Conclusion | 119 Chapter 4: Contemporary Eastern Orthodox Retrieval of Triadosis | 123 Introduction | 123 Zizioulas's Critiques of Apotheosis and Energeosis | 123 Zizioulas's View of Personhood | 125 Conclusion | 147 Chapter 5: Recent Retrievals of Theosis in Paul | 149 Introduction | 149 M. David Litwa | 149 Ben C. Blackwell | 176 Michael J. Gorman | 188 Conclusion | 193 Chapter 6: Conclusion | 195 Summary of Argument | 195 Original Contribution | 196 Further Implications | 197 Bibliography | 199 Subject and Author Index | 217 Scripture Index | 225

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Book SynopsisA new synthesis of the thought of four key Medieval writers on the themes of mystical union, volition and virtue.Trade ReviewHow are we to conceive of union with God? What is the role of knowledge, if any, in attaining mystical union? Focussing on the thought of Hugh of Balma, and drawing Eckhart, Ruusbroec and Margarete Porete into conversation, Peter Dillard's rich and challenging study offers highly original answers to these questions. Whether or not one agrees with his dialetheistic approach, readers will benefit tremendously from his incisive analysis and impressive scholarship. Rik Van Nieuwenhove, Associate Professor of Medieval Thought, Durham University In exploring the nature of mystical union, Divine Audacity offers careful analysis and clarity of exposition, shedding new light on the key issues at stake in the thought of a number of the most important contemplative theologians of the late thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. This book is highly recommended for all those interested in the Christian mystical tradition and medieval theology and philosophy. John Arblaster, Ruusbroec Institute, University of Antwerp With theological sensitivity and philosophical insight, Peter Dillard's Divine Audacity breaks the impasse in mystical theology between 'affective' and 'intellectual' mysticism. Dillard's exploration of Carthusian Hugh of Balma opens a wider, nuanced discussion, with Marguerite Porete, Meister Eckhart, and Jan van Ruusbroec, of fundamental mystical questions: In the journey into God, how does love know what intellect can never grasp? Is the fire of love all-consuming? An audacious conversation indeed! Kevin L. Hughes, Professor of Historical Theology, Villanova University

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Book SynopsisAn enduring exposition of the classic 'traditio-historical' approach to New Testament criticism.Trade ReviewThe problems of understanding the categories used by the first Christians, and of unravelling the development of the various ways in which they came to speak of Christ, are under constant review. At the heart of the debate is the vital question of method: by what process does one separate Jesus' own understanding of his person from the beliefs of his followers, and how can one trace the various stages in the growth of their interpretation? Professor Fuller's. . . is an important book, for it sets out clearly the principles by which many New Testament scholars today believe they must proceed in this vital task of evaluating the Christological material. Morna D. Hooker, Religious Studies, 1971Table of ContentsPreface Preface to the 2002 Reprint Abbreviations I. The Approach to New Testament Christology II. The Tools: (1) Palestinian Judaism III. The Tools: (2) Hellenistic Judaism IV. The Tools: (3) Hellenistic Gentile V. The Historical Jesus: His Self-understanding VI. The Kerygma of the Earliest Church: the Two Foci Christology VII. The Hellenistic Jewish Mission: the Two Stage Christology VIII. The Hellenistic Gentile Mission: the Three Stage Christology IX. Building on the Foundations Index of Scripture References Index of Ancient Authors Index of Modern Authors

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Book SynopsisNicholas Wolterstorff''s distinguished career in philosophical theology continues to bear fruit, and here he shares his insight on the concepts of justice, art and liturgy. Although often discussed in isolation, as Wolterstorff masterfully demonstrates, they are bound together by divine love, and follow a common logical framework. Whether oriented towards the dignity of the other, the desire for creative engagement, or the infinite goodness of the creator, in every case unitive love is at their core. Wolterstorff explores all of this with consummate elegance, ultimately showing how each of the three topics find their fulfilment in the worship of God and in the affirmation of the image of God in each of us.Trade Review"Some thinkers labor in a particular furrow, hand to the plough, making progress on an area or line of argument over the course of time. Others, like Nicholas Wolterstorff, manage to contribute to the propagation of several different intellectual crops in different fields. In this work, he brings together essays in areas in which he has made signal contributions individually: on the notion of justice, on art and aesthetics, and on liturgy - binding them together with love. It is an important collection of his work, and a valuable contribution to the cross-fertilization of these distinct areas, which he has done so much to help flourish." - Oliver D. Crisp, Professor of Analytic Theology and Director of the Logos Institute, University of St Andrews "We can always rely on Nicholas Wolterstorff for original and philosophically astute insights on matters which we often - wrongly - take for granted. Here, in his most recent set of collected essays, he brings together his reflections on justice, aesthetics, and liturgy, and finally unites them under the category of divine love. Let us not imagine that Wolterstorff has finished his thinking, for here we see yet new enrichment and depth." - Sarah Coakley, FBA, University of Cambridge and Australian Catholic UniversityTable of ContentsForeword, by Alan J. Torrance Acknowledgements United in Love 1. The Underlying Unity of Love, Justice, Art, and Liturgy Justice 2. Love and Justice 3. What Makes Gratuitous Generosity Sometimes Unjust? 4. The Just Limits of Love; or Why an Ethic of Pure Benevolence Is Not Sufficient for Morality 5. All Justice Is Social, but Not All Justice Is Social Justice 6. Religious Intolerance and the Wounds of God 7. Modern Protestant Developments in Human Rights Art 8. Human Flourishing and Art That Enhances the Ordinary 9. What Sort of Worth Do Works of Art Have? 10. Art and the Formation of Just Persons 11. Social Protest Art and the Graphic Art of Georges Rouault Liturgy 12. Sacrament as Action, Not Presence 13. Preaching the Word of God 14. Knowing God by Liturgically Addressing God 15. Art and Liturgy Afterword Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisScott Hahn has brought a deep understanding of the scriptural roots of the Church's teaching and a new verve and freshness of language to mainstream Catholic theology. His bestselling books on the Mass, on marriage and the family, and on Mary have stimulated a dialogue with Christians of every spiritual tradition. In Lord, Have Mercy Hahn turns to the Catholic Church's teaching on confession and forgiveness. He argues that the sacrament of confession is the key to spiritual growth, more relevant than ever in these times of anxiety and uncertainty. Once again, Hahn reveals the scriptural heart of a traditional teaching, in a way that is both wholly original, and wholly orthodox.

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Book SynopsisThis work offers students of philosophy and medieval studies an introduction to the thought of Aquinas and the Scholastic philosophy of the Middle Ages. Gilson demonstrates that Aquinas drew from a wide spectrum of sources in the development of his thought.Trade Review"[A]s the only English version of any edition of Le Thomisme, and therefore for years a kind of manual for North American students approaching Aquinas, the book deserves re-circulation. With it appears the masterful 'Catalogue of St. Thomas' Works' prepared by the Rev. I.T. Eschmann to accompany Shook's translation and available nowhere else. . . . [I]ts overview of principles and conclusions in the history of the texts has not been surpassed." —The Philosophical Quarterly"[The volume presents] L. K. Shook's English translation of the final version of the late Etienne Gilson's (1884–1978) classic overview of the Christian Philosophy of St. Thomas Aquinas. . . . Gilson was one of the pioneers, in the early part of this century, of medieval philosophy in general and the work of Aquinas in particular. He sought to restore to the study of Aquinas' texts an historical sensitivity, thus rescuing them from the near canonical status accorded in the well-intentioned but inhibiting late 19th-century Papal revival of Thomistic studies and preserved in the so-called 'manual theology' of the seminar curriculum. . . . The endnotes are an invaluable resource as is the still unsurpassed Catalogue of Aquinas' works compiled by Eschmann and included as an invaluable Appendix here. . . . This volume is an essential yet inexpensive buy and its republication by Notre Dame is a welcome initiative." —Theological Book Review

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Book SynopsisTim Hartman''s Theology after Colonization uses a comparative approach to examine two theologians, one from Europe and one from Africa, to gain insight into our contemporary theological situation. Hartman examines how the loss of cultural hegemony through rising pluralism and secularization has undermined the interconnection of the Christian faith with political power and how globalization undermined the expansive (and expanding) mindset of colonialization. Hartman engages Swiss-German theologian Karl Barth (18861968), whose work responded to the challenges of Christendom and the increasing secularization of Europe by articulating an early post-Christendom theology based on God''s self-revelation in Jesus Christ, not on official institutional structures (including the church) or societal consensus. In a similar way, Ghanaian theologian Kwame Bediako (19452008) offered a post-colonial theology. He wrote from the perspective of the global South while the Christian faith was groTrade Review"Tim Hartman presents one of the strongest texts, from the perspective of Western theology, that argues for the wider world appeal of contextual African theology; one of the best and perhaps the only courageous proposition I have ever read that presents Karl Barth as a contextual Western (Swiss) theologian without diminishing Barth's influence." —Elochukwu Uzukwu, Duquesne University"This is the first significant comparison of Kwame Bediako and Karl Barth and one of the few treatments of Bediako. Tim Hartman's volume is very rare in the fields of theology and mission studies." —Willie Jennings, Yale Divinity School“Theology After Colonialization is well worth the read. It brings to light aspects of Karl Barth’s theology that have long been neglected, and it introduces Kwame Bediako’s theological insights to Western readers in a sustained and thoughtful way. . . . The book is an invitation to a longer conversation about how to forge a post-colonialist and post-Christendom path together. “ —Modern Theology"For those interested in learning more about African theology and who already have some grounding in the Western tradition, Hartman is a very able guide." —Theology TodayTable of ContentsAcknowledgments Abbreviations Introduction Part I. Western Christian Theology Today 1. A Crisis of (Shifting) Authority: The Decline of Christendom and the Rise of Secularization and Globalization 2. Transcultural Theology through Juxtaposition Transitional Theological Interlude Part II. Rethinking Divine Revelation 3. Christological Reflection: Revelation in Jesus Christ 4. Contextual Reflection: Revelation, not Religion 5. Cultural Reflection: The Location of Revelation 6. Constructive Reflection: Imaginative and Prophetic 7. Collaborative Reflection: Learning, not Helping Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“The Difference Nothing Makes is incredibly learned, the product of a mature thinker who has been reading deeply and cross-sectionally for decades. The argument is sophisticated, intricate, and, in the end, convincing.” —Grant Kaplan, author of René Girard, Unlikely Apologist"I found this book to be immensely engaging and illuminating. It offers a finessed account of creatio ex nihilo, one that is protological, eschatological, and Christological. Admirably conversant with the constancies of traditional views, it recreates for contemporaries a fitting sense of the lovable surprise of the gift of being, and what G. M. Hopkins called 'the dearest freshness deep down things.' Very warmly recommended." —William Desmond, author of Godsends"The Difference Nothing Makes is not the usual, well-heeled essay in foundational theology. Conceived and born in the matrix of contemplation, Brian Robinette’s deeply engaging contribution is a learned, grounded, and perceptive exploration of creation, incarnation, and redemption in a refreshingly new register. An unintended fruit of this remarkable book is itself a subtle redemption of theology from its own self-conscious servitude to scripted cliché." —Martin Laird, O.S.A., author of An Ocean of Light"Deftly demonstrating nihil's semantic flexibility and fecundity, Robinette illuminates the expansive yet negative nature of the doctrine of creatio ex nihilo." —Modern Theology"A passionate and poetically written defence of God’s creation of the universe ‘from nothing’...provides much valuable material for reflection on the practice of contemplative prayer and the God–world relationship." —Theology"The ideas in this book are rigorous and carefully argued, and its vision of transformation based on a deep acceptance of the world’s givenness by God is also quite beautiful. ...We are in the author’s debt for this carefully argued, ecumenically engaged work of theology that is deeply attentive to connections between Christian theology and Christian life."—Reading ReligionTable of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction Part I. Grammar and Contemplation 1. The Difference Nothing Makes 2. Undergoing Something from Nothing Part II. Christ as Concentrated Creation 3. Jesus and the Non-Other 4. Strange Victory Part III. Purgation and Union 5. On the Contemplative Consummation of Atheism 6. Return to Love Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisRichard Harries considers the work of twenty great writers and provides numerous critically sympathetic insights into the spiritual dimension of their writings. The result is a book for readers of all religious persuasions, especially those who are fascinated by the ways in which faith is refracted through the lens of great poetry and fiction.Trade ReviewIn this enormously engaging book, Richard Harries shares with us his reading of many of the great writers of modernity, inviting us to attend with him to their wrestling with the hardest questions of human existence before God – and sometimes before the apparent absence of God. These are enriching and provoking reflections, testimony to the way that the Christian gospel continues to be a vehicle for the most serious thinking and imagining in our culture. * Rowan Williams, Master of Magdalene College, Cambridge *A compelling narrative of the modern quest for meaning and the expression, in literature, of our age’s deep wrestling with faith. * Jane Shaw, Principal of Harris Manchester College, Oxford *Richard Harries sweeps through writers from Dostoevsky to Marilynne Robinson, including Emily Dickinson, Samuel Beckett and Evelyn Waugh – and points out how their Christianity was sometimes submerged and often neglected by critics and readers. This book rightly and authoritatively, without beating the drum, resurrects the profound spiritual tradition of Christianity over a century that often claimed to have stamped it out. Here, see it alive and well, subtly and with fine scholarship unveiled. This is a rich and important book. I hugely enjoyed it. * Melvyn Bragg, writer and broadcaster *

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Book SynopsisWhy has Christianity, a religion premised upon neighbourly love, failed in its attempts to heal social divisions? This title delves into the late medieval soil in which the modern Christian imagination grew, to reveal how Christianity's highly refined process of socialization has inadvertently created and maintained segregated societies.Trade ReviewWinner of the 2011 American Academy of Religion's Award for Excellence in the Constructive-Reflective Study of Religion categoryWinner of the 2015 Louisville Grawemeyer Award in Religion presented by the Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary and the University of Louisville"Jennings excavates the major theological issues involved as the old world encountered—violently—the new and engaged in displacement and racialization of the 'subjugated' peoples. At stake is a whole way of conceiving the self, the other, and the world of their mutual relations."—Miroslav Volf, Yale University"There is no study that I know of that traces with such detail, consistency, insight, historical depth and geographic spread, the links between racism, capitalism and Christian theology. A brilliant piece of work."—Walter Mignolo, Duke University"How did Christianity become so closely identified with racial segregation and oppression? Jennings successfully addresses a question that others have taken for granted or left unanswered. This original and important book has the potential to change the way theology is done henceforth in America."—Cheryl Sanders, Howard University

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Book SynopsisContemporary Theology: An Introduction by Kirk MacGregor introduces major thinkers and schools of thought from the beginning of the 19th century to the present, including non-Western voices, evangelical perspectives, and philosophical developments alongside the widely acknowledged main streams of modern theology.Trade Review'Contemporary Theology: An Introduction will assuredly--and quickly--become an indispensable addition to the required reading list for undergraduate and graduate courses on Christian theology and Christian ethics. As in all of his publications, Professor MacGregor combines comprehensive and context-driven historical analysis with superlative writing skills. Difficult concepts are presented in a clearly written, crisp, and engaging style. For the general reader interested in the positive impact of Christian ethics on our fragmented and contentious world, your understanding of the ongoing cultural struggle for ethical assurances, drawn from the long history of Christian theology, will be exponentially enhanced. Highly recommended!' * JOHN K. SIMMONS, professor emeritus of religious studies, Western Illinois University *'In Contemporary Theology Kirk MacGregor skillfully acquaints readers with the principal thinkers and schools of thought in Christian theology over the past two hundred years, both inside and outside evangelicalism. MacGregor beautifully discloses how the renaissance in philosophy of religion over the past half century has shaped many of the most creative and constructive strides in theology today. I heartily recommend this book.' * WILLIAM LANE CRAIG, research professor of philosophy, Talbot School of Theology, and professor of philosophy, Houston Baptist University *'Kirk MacGregor has given to us an accessible, wide-ranging overview of the contemporary theological scene. It is not only a valuable resource, but it rightly recognizes the important contributions of philosophy of religion and analytic theology in helping to shape and guide much of today's theological discourse.' * PAUL COPAN, the Pledger Family Chair of Philosophy and Ethics, Palm Beach Atlantic University, and author of A Little Book for New Philosophers *'When traveling through new and unfamiliar terrain, having a knowledgeable guide is essential. But if that guide is also an excellent communicator, then so much the better. MacGregor demonstrates that he is both. In Contemporary Theology: An Introduction, MacGregor gives the reader a clear and balanced tour through the modern theological landscape.' * KENNETH D. KEATHLEY, senior professor of theology, Jesse Hendley Endowed Chair of Biblical Theology, and director of the L. Russ Bush Center for Faith and Culture, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary *'With Contemporary Theology: An Introduction Professor MacGregor presents the theological community a highly readable, cogent, and insightful inventory of two centuries of modern theological thought. Scholars will appreciate the comprehensive overview, students will love the easy access of thirty-eight nearly standalone chapters, and the generally educated layperson will value the contextualization of their own experiences which this volume offers. Additionally, the extensive critical apparatus helpfully lays out both pivotal primary texts and useful secondary sources, thus ensuring that Contemporary Theology shall soon become a sought after college and seminary textbook as well as a frequently consulted theological handbook.' * ROMWALD MACZKA, professor emeritus of religion, Carthage College *

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Book SynopsisWayne Grudem''s Systematic Theology is required reading in many courses on biblical theology—and with good reason. The textbook''s emphasis on the scriptural basis for each doctrine, along with its clear writing, and contemporary approach make it an indispensable resource for many Christians.This series presents, as a separate book, each of the seven main parts that make up the 1,600-page Systematic Theology, making it more portable, affordable, and less daunting.Part 1—Making Sense of the Bible—will introduce you to important topics, including: Canon of Scripture: the list of all books that belong in the Bible. Authority of Scripture: all words in Scripture are God’s words because that is what the Bible claims for itself. Clarity of Scripture: the Bible is written so that its teachings are able to be understood by all who read it.

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Book SynopsisWayne Grudem’s Systematic Theology is required reading in many courses on biblical theology—and with good reason. The textbook’s emphasis on the scriptural basis for each doctrine, along with its clear writing, and contemporary approach make it an indispensable resource for many Christians.This series presents, as a separate book, each of the seven main parts that make up the 1,600-page Systematic Theology, making it more portable, affordable, and less daunting.Part 6—Making Sense of the Church explores the community of all true believers for all time—the church.Important Topics Include: The invisible church—the church as God sees it. The visible church—the church as Christians on earth see it. The purity of church—the degree of freedom from wrong doctrine and conduct. The primary purpose of the

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Book SynopsisNeal Robinson first outlines the various Christian approaches to the subject and then explains the principles of Muslim exegesis before looking in detail at what five classical Sunni commentaries say about Jesus' return, the crucifixion, the miracles and the virginal conception.Table of ContentsPreface - Introduction - Jesus in the Qur' n - s through Christian Eyes - s and the Church Historian - Muhammad and the Christians - Muhammad and Jesus - Currents and Encounters - Shi'ites and Sufis - Classical Exegesis - Jesus' Return: Qur'an 4:159 - Jesus' Return: Continued - The Crucifixion: Non-Muslim Approaches - The Meaning of the Verb Tawaffa - Muslim Interpretation of Shubbiha La-Hum - The Miracles: Creating Birds from Clay - The Miracles: Raising the Dead to Life - The Virginal Conception: Non-Muslim Perspectives - The Virginal Conception: Razi's Comments on 19:16-22a - The Representation of Jesus in the Shi'ite Commentaries - The Representation of Jesus in the Sufi Commentaries - Postscript - Notes - Bibliography - Index

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Book SynopsisA book which must rank among the significant examinations of the subject not only for New Testament studies, but in the current ecumenical debate.

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Book SynopsisThis collection of provocative essays by one of the twentieth century's most distinguished theologians deals with topics as diverse as the right to work, nuclear war, the Olympic Games, and Judaism and Christianity—all within the framework of human rights.

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Book SynopsisBarth stands before us as the greatest theologian of the twentieth century, yet the massive corpus of work which he left behind, the multi volume Church Dogmatics, can seem daunting and formidable to readers today. Fortunately his Dogmatics in Outline first published in English in 1949, contains in brilliantly concentrated form even in shorthand, the essential tenets of his thinking. Built around the assertions made in the Apostles Creed the book consists of a series of reflections on the foundation stones of Christian doctrine. Because Dogmatics in Outline derives from very particular circumstances namely the lectures Barth gave in war-shattered Germany in 1946, it has an urgency and a compassion which lend the text a powerful simplicity. Despite its brevity the book makes a tremendous impact, which in this new edition will now be felt by a fresh generation of readers.Trade ReviewThis guide is an inspiring combination of imaginative approaches and critical reflection. It aims to give clergy the tools to deal with the opportunities and challenges that are typically encountered in congregations and parishes. - Canon Professor Martyn Percy, Principal, Ripon College

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Book SynopsisWhen Deborah Met Jael defines and situates the significant elements which constitute lesbian readings of scripture. Deryn Guest explores the instability of the lesbian label and the concept of a lesbian sensibility. The book further explores the social location of lesbian hermeneutics, noting in particular the adverse positions of lesbians socially, economically and religiously. The author also examines the non-negotiable principles that underpin lesbian readings of biblical texts. These include; upholding the dignity of the lesbian and the authority of experience; the need to operate via a specifically lesbian hermeneutic of suspicion; the principle of ensuring the views of grassroot lesbians are included; the desirability of opening a lesbian critical position to allies and finally a willingness to confront the issue of biblical authority. Finally the author evaluates strategies that have been used to date by lesbians reading scripture, identifying those strategies that are most lik

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Book SynopsisConcilium has long been a household-name for cutting-edge critical and constructive theological thinking. Past contributors include leading Catholic scholars such as Hans Küng, Gregory Baum and Edward Schillebeeckx, and the editors of the review belong to the international "who's who" in the world of contemporary theology.

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Book SynopsisThere is a definite and growing interest and awareness amongst the general public of the competing arguments around faith, God and society. The book is divided into two sections. Section One tackles issues of ultimate concern and the place of God in the modern world, whilst Section Two considers the role of faith in public life. The contributors bring a range of different voices both religious and secular to the conversation. Section One: Examining God - Richard Harries discusses the challenge to faith from atheism, whilst Dan Cohn-Sherbok thinks about God from a post-holocaust point of view, Daphne Hampson wonders how God might be reconceived in a post-patriarchal context. David Jasper reflects on the role of the arts in leading us to spiritual reflection, and Mona Siddiqui offers a comparison between Muslim and Christian notions of divine love.Section Two: The role of faith in contemporary society - James Jones argues for kingdom values' in public life, Catherine Pepinster advoc

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Book SynopsisStraw for the Bricks explores theological reflection as a tool for ministerial training and development.The book offers a new resource for theological conversation at the beginning of the 21st century: it breaks new ground in exploring how a model of conversation can be used to lay a foundation for learning which provides a new architecture for both academic curriculum and personal formation.In addition, this book offers a practical guide to good practice supported by the lived experience of educators from All Saints Centre for Mission and Ministry working across several disciplines. No other such detailed practical guide is currently in print.This will become an important resource for those within theological education institutions, adult theological educators; those with responsibility for continuing ministerial development, mentoring and discipleship; and any lay person who seeks to live a life of faith in conversation with culture and the Judaeo-Christian tradition.Trade Review“This book is a useful contribution to the field of Practical Theology, informed by the authors’ extensive experience of enabling people to engage with the transformative potential of theological reflection. It advocates for a conversational, four-source method and gives detailed guidance on how to use the model within the context of group reflections. Especially helpful are the discussions of how the method can inform biblical studies, preaching and reflective practice, and will be of relevance both for ministers-in-training and established ministerial practitioners.” -- Helen Collins, Trinity College, BristolThis book is a banqueting table groaning with goodies. Like any good meal, or effective theological reflection, this is a rich shared experience, so pull up a chair. This will nourish practical theologians, preachers and teachers as we refine our various approaches. It will feed poets, enable facilitators of parish debate, and offer sustenance to all who seek God in the earth of the everyday. It offers dishes flavoured with thought, practicality and wisdom; a nourishing feast. -- Revd Dr Kate Bruce, Visiting Fellow, St Johns College, Durham and RAF chaplainI particularly appreciate O’Neill’s insistence on asking the right interrogatory questions during the Theological Reflection process, and honing them until they evoke the sort of response that will deliver ever more depth, insight and therefore action in daily Christian living. Whether a newcomer to the skills, or an old hand at the process of Theological Reflection, O’Neill’s approach invites us to take time to draw deeply from the Four Sources of Tradition, Culture, Action and Position in a way that will challenge and enrich individuals and groups alike. Shercliff’s drawing on her own extensive preaching and teaching experience illustrate the richness of the fresh approach outlined in “Straw for Bricks”. This is a book as much for EFM ‘junkies’ like me, as for those looking for something that will add value to the skills and techniques of sermon preparation, small group leading, and anyone attempting to drill more deeply into biblical texts and themes in a way that speaks into today’s world and society. -- The Very Revd Frank D. Nelson, Dean of St Peter’s Cathedral, Adelaide, Australia Mentor and Trainer for Education for Ministry

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Book SynopsisDrawing from real-life pastoral examples, socio-political analysis, and the theme of Eucharist as a means to human healing and restoration, A Redemption Song outlines and explores what a black British pastoral theology might look like. A landmark text, it offers critical reflection and practical tool for those working and ministering within multicultural communities, especially those with large African-Caribbean populations.Trade Review"At long last, after over a decade of prompting, cajoling, and exhorting my friend to write down his wisdom and knowledge, we now finally have this book. I believe that this book will become an essential text for theological educators and pastoral practitioners across the UK. This is a book for which many of us have been waiting. I am delighted. I know that many people will soon agree with me!" -- Anthony Reddie, Regent's Park College, Oxford'A brilliant, forthright historically and psychosocially penetrating account of Black people's experience in Britain, A Redemption Song is not just a must read but truly a "must study" for all who recognize the need for the care of all persons in whatever national context they find themselves. Deftly interwoven with Christological and Eucharistic theological themes that engage the horrors of enslavement and the ongoing experience of racism in the United Kingdom, Delroy Hall's Black British Pastoral Theology gives us all pathways to the development of a more honest and just social and political existence.' -- Emmanuel Lartey, Candler School of TheologyThis is a ground-breaking and much anticipated book within multiple spaces. Dr Hall brings to this reflection deep insights and extensive experiences as a British Black theologian, a psychotherapist, and a pastor and provides one of the first attempts at articulating what a Black British Pastoral Theology might look like. This penetrating work challenges the lack of psychological attention to black experiences within not only theological, but also psychotherapeutic spaces. This is the kind of book that can spark a trajectory for further research and reflection, making conscious and therefore addressing the often veiled processes that hinder Black flourishing. -- Carlton Turner, The Queens Foundation, UKTable of ContentsAcknowledgements vii Introduction ix 1. The Effects of an African Caribbean Heritage: Living as a Problem 1 2. The Middle Passage as Existential Crucifixion 17 3. Body Broken: Eucharistic Violence and the Sam Sharpe Revolt 38 4. Eucharistic Encounters: Towards an African Caribbean Diasporan Pastoral Theology 63 5. Negative Labelling: The Product of an Insecure Mind 91 6. Towards a Theology of Black Men and Radical Self-Love in the UK: Beyond the Exotic and the Grotesque 114 7. Black Theology and the Care of the Soul, Mind and Body: Reading African American Theology from a Black British Perspective 147 8. We are Here – Where Next? 164 Index of Bible References 169 Index of Names and Subjects 170

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Book SynopsisAs society becomes more concerned with the future of our planet, the study of apocalypse and eschatology become increasingly pertinent. Whether religious or not, peoples' views on this topic can have a profound effect on their attitudes to issues such as climate change and social justice and so it cannot be ignored. This book investigates how different approaches in historical and contemporary Christian theology make sense in reflecting about the final things, or the eschata, and why it is so important to consider their multi-faceted impact on our lives. A team of Nordic scholars analyse historical and contemporary eschatological thinking in a broad range of sources from theology and other related disciplines, such as moral philosophy, art history and literature. Specific social and environmental challenges, such as the Norwegian Breivik massacre in 2011, climatic change narratives and the ambiguity of discourses about euthanasia are investigTrade Review"This well-written volume showcases the creativity and excellence of Nordic scholarship. The serious treatment of the last things will make this book interesting for scholars specializing in eschatology, practical theology, religious studies, as well as philosophy of religion. Seminary-trained pastors will turn an ear to the highly accessible content and see ways in which they can craft socially relevant eschatologies in their ministry contexts."- Brandon F. Babcock, Reading Religion"The new theological-philosophical reflection on the relevance of Christian eschatology to contemporary soci-ety, which is undertaken in this work, remains certainly to be commended."- Raymond R. Hausoul, Evangelische Theologische Faculteit Leuven, NTT Journal for Theology and the Study of ReligionTable of Contents1 What Images of the Last Things Do to Us: Introductory Remarks on Why Eschatology Matters 2 Fear of the Future and Theology of Hope 3 The Revelations of Global Climate Change: A Petro-Eschatology 4 Euthanasia: Does Eschatology Matter? 5 Time Turned into Space – At Home on Earth: Wanderings in Eschatological Spatiality 6 Looking For a Miracle: On the Point of Eschatology 7 Beyond the Limit of Time: A New Quest for Hope 8 Back to the Future 9 Enlightened to Eternity

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Book SynopsisMoral rationalism and Shari’a is the first attempt at outlining the scope for a theological reading of Sharī 'a, based on a critical examination of why the 'Adliyya theological ethics hasn’t significantly impacted Shī'ī readings of Shari’a and how these resources may come to do so. Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 Reason as a source of Sharī 'a in Shī 'ī usūl al-fiqh 2 The intelligibility of moral values in Shī 'ī theological thought 3 The nature of morality, rationality and independent judgments of rational morality in modern Shī 'ī usūl al-fiqh 4 The nature of morality, rationality and independent judgments of rational morality in modern Shī 'ī usūl al-fiqh 5 Reassessing the obstacles to independent judgments of rational morality impacting the reading of Sharī 'a

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Book SynopsisRecent theological scholarship has shown increasing interest in patristic exegesis. The way early Christians read scripture has attracted not only historians, but also systematic and exegetical scholars. However, the Christian reading of scripture before Origen has been neglected or, more often, dominated by Gnostic perspectives. This study uses the writings of Irenaeus to argue that there was a rich Christian engagement with scripture long before Origen and the supposed conflict between Antioch and Alexandria. This is a focused examination of specific exegetical themes that undergird Irenaeus' argument against his opponents. However, whereas many works interpret Irenaeus only as he relates to certain Gnostic teachings, this book recognizes the broader context of the second century and explores the profound questions facing early Christians in an era of martyrdom. It shows that Irenaeus is interested, not simply in expounding the original intent of Table of Contents1 Reading Scripture in an Age of Martyrdom2 Creatio Ex Nihilo & the Freedom of Humanity3 The Recapitulation of All Things in Christ: 4 The Mosaic of Christ (AH 1.8-9, IV.33): Reading Scripture within the Eucharistic Gathering5 The Virgin Birth (AH III): A New Kind of Generation6 The New Fulfilling the Old (AH IV)7 Power Made Perfect in Weakness (AH V)8 Conclusion: Joining the End to the Beginning

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Book SynopsisFrom leading scientists, lawyers, and educators-a decisive rebuttal to those who undermine science in the name of religion.

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Book SynopsisKarl Barth was, without doubt, one of the most significant religious thinkers of modern times. His radical affirmation of the revealed truth of Christianity changed the course of Christian theology in the twentieth century and is a source of inspiration for countless believers. Pope Pius XII declared that there had been nothing like Karl Barth's later thought since Thomas Aquinas. God Here and Now offers a succinct and accessible overview of that thought. In it, Barth outlines his position on the fundamental tenets of Christian belief, from the decision of faith to the authority of the Bible, and from the interpretation of grace to the significance of Jesus Christ. In this way Barth challenges each and every reader to discover what it means to encounter God, here and now.Trade Review'Karl Barth was a man of his time. Yet he was also a genius, able to see a little further than many and to offer new insights into the ways of God and mankind.' - Professor Colin Gunton, The Times'With a startling suddenness [Barth's] message has transformed the whole outlook of Protestant theology on the continent.' - The Times Literary Supplement'This is a beautifully produced reissue of a collection of essays.' - Reviews in Religion and Theology'This welcome reissue in the Routledge Classics series...introduces the first-time reader to aspects of his mature thought in an accessible way...God Here and Now is a superb introduction to Barth at his most compelling and most frustrating.' - Epworth ReviewTable of ContentsIntroduction to the Routledge Classics edition by George HunsingerTranslator's Introduction1. The Christian Proclamation Here and Now2. The Sovereignty of God's Word and the Decision of Faith3. The Proclamation of God's Free Grace4. The Authority and Significance of the Bible: (Twelve Theses)5. The Church: The Living Congregation of the Living Lord Jesus Christ The Essence of the Church The Threat to the Church The Renewal of the Church6. Christian Ethics7. Humanism

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Book SynopsisThis book offers a fresh and up-to-date introduction to modern Christian theology. The âlong nineteenth centuryâ saw enormous transformations of theology, and of thought about religion, that shaped the way both Christianity and âreligionâ are understood today. Muers and Higton provide a lucid guide to the development of theology since 1789, giving students a critical understanding of their own âmodernâ assumptions, of the origins of the debates and the fields of study in which they are involved, and of major modern thinkers.Modern Theology: introduces the context and work of a selection of major nineteenth-century thinkers who decisively affected the shape of modern theology presents key debates and issues that have their roots in the nineteenth century but are also central to the study of twentieth- and twenty-first-century theology includes exercises and study materials that explicitly focus on the development of core academic skillsTrade Review"Muers and Higton have managed to write a textbook that is both astoundingly comprehensive and thoroughly engaging. Often teachers of modern Christian thought feel the need to choose between historical context and theological content. With its artful juxtaposition of explanation, analysis, and reflection, Modern Theology manages to combine both without sacrificing the integrity of either. Not only will this book prove an invaluable asset in the classroom, but it is one of those all-too-rare texts that students will continue to consult long after the term has ended." - Ian A. McFarland, Candler School of Theology, Emory University, USA "Lucid, readable and reliable-- students of modern theology will find this an enormously useful guide." - Karen Kilby, University of Nottingham, UK Table of Contents1. Introduction – What is Modernity? 2. Historical Introduction – Approaching the Revolution Section A: Key Thinkers Section Introduction 3. Immanuel Kant 4. Friedrich Schleiermacher 5. G.W.F. Hegel 6. Søren Kierkegaard 7. Friedrich Nietzsche 8. Charles Hodge and Horace Bushnell 9. Nineteenth-Century Voices Section B: Key Themes Section Introduction 10. Reading the Bible 11. Religion and Science 12. Reclaiming Christian Tradition 13. Confronting Evil 14. Feminism and Theology 15. Liberating Theology 16. Christianity Among the Religions 17. Becoming Postmodern. Glossary. Timeline

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisPolitical theology as we know it today reacts against the attempt to insulate theology from political theory which has generally characterised the modern era. But its own intellectual parentage in the idealist historicism of the nineteenth century has left it still entrammelled in the suspicions and inhibitions from which it has wanted to break free. Oliver O'Donovan contends that to pass beyond suspicion and totalised criticism of politics and to achieve a positive reconstruction of political thought, theology must reach back behind the modern tradition, achieving a fuller, less selective reading of the Scriptures and learning from an older politico-theological discourse which flourished in the patristic, medieval and Reformation periods. Central to that discourse was a series of questions about authority, generated by Jesus' proclamation of the Kingdom of God. This book, now published in paperback, makes an important contribution to contemporary political theology and Christian ethicTrade Review'Above all … it is the book's ability to stimulate and enrich debate about the shape of a Christian political ethic which emerges most clearly …'. Studies in Christian Ethics'O'Donovan's masterful work should be read by everyone interested in the daunting complexities of the political theology of Israel, Christendom, and now post-Christendom.' Theological Studies'… a powerful argument by a subtle thinker. The Desire of the Nations is a serious book to which anyone interested in questions of theology and politics must attend.' The Review of Politics'There are real insights on almost every page into the history of politics and religion and the book is written with great confidence and certainty.' Scottish Journal of Theology'… the author has presented us with a substantive statement of the postmodern political meaning of the Christian faith. The book should be read.' The Princeton Seminary Bulletin'This is a substantial exercise in 'political theology'. The argument is highly distinctive: it is a defence of the idea 'christendom'. Most of the book is a dense and difficult discussion of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament. To his credit he does attempt to grapple with the historical critical method and takes seriously the views of the Biblical scholars. … All libraries will have to purchase this text …'. Theological Book ReviewTable of ContentsAcknowledgements; Prologue; 1. Beyond suspicion; 2. The revelation of God's kingship; 3. Dual authority and the fulfilling of the time; 4. The triumph of the Kingdom; 5. The church; 6. The obedience of rulers; 7. The redemption of society; Epilogue; Bibliography; Index of scriptural references; Index of subjects; Index of names and authors.

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Book SynopsisAre humans composed of a body and a nonmaterial mind or soul, or are we purely physical beings? Opinion is sharply divided over this issue. In this clear and concise book, Nancey Murphy argues for a physicalist account, but one that does not diminish traditional views of humans as rational, moral, and capable of relating to God. This position is motivated not only by developments in science and philosophy, but also by biblical studies and Christian theology. The reader is invited to appreciate the ways in which organisms are more than the sum of their parts. That higher human capacities such as morality, free will, and religious awareness emerge from our neurobiological complexity and develop through our relation to others, to our cultural inheritance, and, most importantly, to God. Murphy addresses the questions of human uniqueness, religious experience, and personal identity before and after bodily resurrection.Trade Review'…a very clear and helpful overview of the ongoing question of whether humans are composed of a body and a nonmaterial soul or are purely physical beings … this book contains a great deal of sophisticated theology and science presented in a highly accessible form …' Theology'… [provides] a 'state of the art' assessment of pressing issues in theology. … a great deal of sophisticated theology and science presented in a highly accessible form and, as such will be very useful to theologians and churchpeople alike …' TheologyReaders will find the breadth of this work its most useful characteristic. By offering such a survey Murphy alerts her readers to numerous facets and implications of thinking about human nature from within the Christian tradition, while critically drawing from scientific evidence and philosophical argumentation … All in all, this book will serve students and church professionals as an excellent introduction to contemporary issues surrounding theologically understanding human nature as neuroscientific portraits of humanness gain influence.' Scottish Journal of TheologyTable of Contents1. Do Christians need souls?: theological and biblical perspectives on human nature; 2. What does science say about human nature?: physics, evolutionary biology, and neuroscience; 3. Did my neurons make me do it?: reductionism, morality, and the problem of free will; 4. What are the philosophical challenges?: human distinctives, divine action, and personal identity.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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The Cambridge Companion to Hans Urs Von Balthasar | BookCurl

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Book SynopsisOrthodox Christianity, building on its patristic foundations, has blossomed in the modern period. This volume focuses on the way Orthodox theological tradition is understood and lived today. As well as discussing aspects of doctrine, the book portrays the main figures, themes and developments that have helped to shape Orthodox thought.Trade Review'This is a remarkable book - as remarkable for the wide scope of its articles as for their quality.' The Messenger'This book can be read in many ways - as a summary of themes and movements, as a history of theological development, as a devotional meditation, and also as a piece of creative theological thinking in its own right.' Journal of Theological Studies'… an impressive collection of essays in the long tradition of the Cambridge Companions to Religion. Well worth adding to any library which has collections in this field and, especially the paperback edition, easily accessible for the bookshelves of individual scholars.' Reference Reviews'This book is truly what it sets out to be: a very useful 'companion' to Orthodox studies … It is refreshing and uncommon to see a useful and important resource on Orthodox Christian theology edited by two Western Orthodox women scholars; Cambridge University Press should be congratulated for entrusting the task to their competent hands.' Theology'This book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the contemporary situation of Orthodox life and theology today.' The Expository Times' … this is an accessible and attractive collection, from which much can be learned.' The Journal of Church History'… prefaced by a concise … extremely helpful historical introduction to Orthodoxy and its communities, including those in the West, written by the editors … This book is truly what it sets out to be: a very useful 'companion' to Orthodox studies.' Theology'… a collection of very well written essays, which all say something important about their respective topic … a recommended volume.' SobornostTable of ContentsPart I. Doctrine and Tradition: 1. Who are the Orthodox Christians? A historical introduction Mary Cunningham and Elizabeth Theokritoff; 2. Scripture and tradition in the Church Theodore G. Stylianopoulos; 3. Biblical interpretation in worship Archimandrite Ephrem Lash; 4. God in Trinity Boris Bobrinskoy; 5. Creator and creation Elizabeth Theokritoff; 6. Christ and salvation Peter Bouteneff; 7. Eschatology Bishop Hilarion Alfeyev; 8. The Church Matthew Steenberg; 9. Theology of the icon Mariamna Fortounatto and Mary Cunningham; 10. The human person as image and likeness of God Nonna Verna Harrison; 11. The spiritual way John Chryssavgis; Part II. Contemporary Orthodox Theology: Its Formation and Character: 12. Church Fathers and the shaping of orthodox theology Augustine Casiday; 13. The patristic revival and its protagonists Andrew Louth; 14. The Russian religious revival and its theological legacy Michael Plekon; 15. Some key themes and figures in Greek theological thought Athanasios N. Papathanasiou; 16. Personhood and its exponents in twentieth-century orthodox theology Aristotle Papanikolaou; 17. The witness of the church in a pluralistic world: theological renaissance in the Church of Antioch Nicolas Abou Mrad; 18. Russian theology after totalitarianism Leonid Kishkovsky; 19. Orthodox Christianity in the West: the ecumenical challenge John Jillions.

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Book SynopsisDevoted to recovering the truth and vitality of Christian faith by attempting to trace the ways of God with the modern world. Following the example of the great eras of theological understanding in the past, this book seeks a synthesis of faith, theology and other disciplined forms of life and thought to recover the dynamic of God's life and work.Trade Review"'This is some of the richest theology to have been produced in Britain or America in recent decades. It faces one after another of the key questions and always illuminates them. It is rare to be able to unite such profound engagement with God and the fundamentals of Christian faith together with a sense of getting inside the critical and constructive contributions of a range of other disciplines.' Professor David F. Ford 'During the last few decades, Daniel Hardy has been a leading contributor to the revival of systematic theology in Britain. These papers provide a conspectus of the range and depth of his thinking, and will long continue to serve as sources of profound insight and understanding.' Professor Colin E. Gunton"

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Book SynopsisRoger Haight, SJ, has a PhD from the University of Chicago, USA (1973) and a STL from the Jesuit School of Theology in Chicago, USA (1981). He has taught for over 30 years in Jesuit schools of theology in Chicago, Toronto, the Philippines, and Cambridge, Massachusetts. He has been a visiting professor in France, India, Peru, and Kenya. He is a past president of the Catholic Theological Society of America (1994/95).Trade Review"While maintaining the theological nature of his study, Roger Haight's historical ecclesiology lays a sturdy foundation in a historical, sociological analysis of the beginnings and development of the Christian Church from its origin in Jesus of Nazareth to the eve of the Reformation.... This is a groundbreaking volume... Haight has served all ecclesiologists well by initiating a way of looking at ecclesiology as it develops on the ground, so to speak. He has done it with theological integrity and clear analyses. He challenges us all to understand differences as values and the most appropriate way for the incarnation to continue through human history, honoring both the human and the divine whether in the stable or the palace of the council chamber." -Catholic Studies/ http://www.CatholicBooksReview.org/, 2005Cover Story Feature on Haight -National Catholic Reporter, 2/25/05"While maintaining the theological nature of his study, Roger Haight's historical ecclesiology lays a sturdy foundation in a historical, sociological analysis of the beginnings and development of the Christian Church from its origin in Jesus of Nazareth to the eve of the Reformation...each chapter concludes with a social historical analysis and a few illuminating pages that draw out principles for historical theology. It is these analytic pages that set Haight's book apart from other studies...This is a groundbreaking volume." -Catholic Books Review, 2005 -- Catholic Books Review"Haight presupposes a Christian unity in the face of religious pluralism within the historical context of postmodernity..."- Susan K. Wood -- Susan K. WoodRoger Haight's two-volume Christian Community in History is an ambitious, multi-layered work that defines the common divisions in ecclesiological approaches. In integrating a history of the church with both theological and social scientific analyses, Haight adopts themes that James Gustafson explored decades ago in Treasure in Earthen Vessels, but which have pretty much disappeared from ecclesiology ever since. -- Amy Plantinga Pauw"Haight displays a laudable awareness of the complexity of issues.... Ultimately, though, what will give this book landmark status in the discipline of ecclesiology will be its method; it is a truly critical and historical study in a discipline struggling with how to order itself in the contemporary theological world." -Anglican Theological Review"Haight displays a laudable awareness of the complexity of issues.... Ultimately, though, what will give this book landmark status in the discipline of ecclesiology will be its method; it is a truly critical and historical study in a discipline struggling with how to order itself in the contemporary theological world." -Anglican Theological Review"Haight proceeds with a historical analysis of the self-constitution of the Church from its origins as a Jesus movement to the heights of medieval Christendom and concludes the volume with the era of conciliarism in the late medieval Church. Several of the essays cast light on the act of reading scripture as a theological exercise, as an encounter with the divine. Thus, a common thread running through this volume is the theological conviction that the prime subject of scriptural interpretation is in fact the self-revealing God. Other contributions offer fascinating explorations of theological interpretation and intertextuality as exemplified with the scripture itself. Haight's study of late medieval ecclesiology sheds light on the all but forgotten influence of conciliarism in healing the Western rift in the papacy. While I find the author's historical study quite insightful. I found this a very helpful, scholarly trek though the major developments in the Roman Catholic Church's self-understanding." -Toronto Journal of Theology"After gaining much renown for his Christology from below Haight applies his methodology to ecclesiology. In this first of a projected two-volume ecclesiology from below, Haight traces the history of the church from its beginnings into the late Middle Ages, concluding with a positive assessment of conciliarism.... Recommended." -Choice, 5/05 * Choice *"I salute Haight for the extraordinary accomplishment represented in this two-volume work..."- Richard P. McBrien, Horizons * Horizons *"Haight's comparable efforts to find methods based on a hermeneutics of authors, a hermeneutics of texts, and a hermeneutics of receivers can open up a common ground amidst diverse viewpoints for understanding the church, foster new formulations about the church's identity and mission, and affirm common practices."- Bradford E. Hinze, Religious Studies Review * Religious Studies Review *[Part of a] landmark work ... Unlike other books on church history or ecclesiology, this is not one with a ‘hidden author’ ... Instead, Haight constantly engages the reader by explaining what he is doing and why he is doing it, and also by introducing topics such as historical consciousness, globalization, religious pluralism, and contemporary secularism. * Reviews in Religion and Theology *Review in German in Theologische Literaturzeitung 131 (2006) * Theologische Literaturzeitung *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction Part I: The Question of Method 1. Historical Ecclesiology Part II: The Formation of the Church 2. Genesis of the Church 3. The Pre-Constantinian Church 4. The Post-Constantinian Church 5. The Gregorian Reform and the New Medieval Church 6. Conciliarism and the Late Medieval Church Index

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Book SynopsisA working guide for students conducting theological writing and research on theology and biblical studies courses, this book integrates the disciplines of writing, rhetoric, and theology, to provide a standard text for the teaching and mentoring of writing across the theological curriculum.As a theological rhetoric, it also encourages excellence in theological writing in the public domain by helping to equip students for their wider vocations as writers, preachers, and communicators in a variety of ministerial and professional contexts. This 2nd Edition includes new chapters on ''Writing Theology in a New Language'', which explores the linguistic and cultural challenges of writing theology well in a non-native language, and ''Writing and Learning Theology in an Electronic Age'', addressed to distance learning students learning to write theology well from online courses, and dealing with the technologies necessary to do so.Trade ReviewIt is imperative that theologians learn to write coherently and with ready access for a general audience - and not simply for each other. No one can help us to do this better than Lucretia Yaghjian. This volume will tutor all theological writers to write in more reasonable ways. * Thomas Groome, Boston College, USA *Writing Theology Well has been my go to text to recommend to theological students and writing resource centers since its publication. Not only does Lucretia Yaghjian have incredible technical skills as a teacher of the craft of writing, but she brings to the task a deep passion for the subject matter, as well as a compassionate understanding of fledging theological and biblical writers. At its best this book evokes the "voice" and imagination of the student while it instructs in rhetoric. This welcome new edition updates this valuable book, including writing in digital environments. It is an invaluable resource for students, faculty, librarians and theological educators everywhere. * Sheryl Kujawa-Holbrook, Claremont School of Theology, USA *In 2006 I wrote that the first edition of this book on writing theology was incomparable in its combination of theory practice, quality, depth and style. And now, almost ten years later, Lucretia Yaghjian expands the breadth of her coverage to second-language English writers and to all of us caught up in a comprehensive digital environment. In a brilliant and yet transparent way she leads young and mature theologians into a new technological and cultural context of teaching, studying and writing. She has taught this old dog new tricks, and I am grateful. * Roger Haight, S.J., Union Theological Seminary, USA *What a wise book! What a pleasant book! What a helpful book! The book reflects Yaghjian's special background, literature as it is well and interestingly written, graced with a conversation with leading figures in the field. There is in this book so much practical wisdom concerning the craft of writing. For a beginner, an absolutely necessary guide; for those who have been writing for years, a welcome and informative reminder of what makes theological writing readable and pointed. This should be required reading for graduate students (and their teachers). * Jerome H. Neyrey (Now Emeritus), University of Notre Dame, USA *Table of ContentsPart I: Writing Theological Rhetorics Well 1. Writing Theology Well in ItsOwn Context 2. Writing Theological Reflection Well: Rhetorics of Process, Problem-Solving,and Proclamation 3. Writing Theological Argument Well: Rhetorics of Inquiry, Reading,Reflection, and Persuasion 4. Writing the Theological Essay Well: Rhetorics of Identification,Correlation, Suspicion, and Construction Part II: Writing Theological andBiblical Research Well 5. Writing Theological Research Well: Rhetorics of Research, Investigation,and Documentation 6. Writing the Biblical Essay Well I: Rhetorics of Exegesis and Interpretation 7. Writing the Biblical Essay Well II: A Critical-Hermeneutical Rhetoric Part III: Toward a Theological Style andVoice of One's Own 8. Writing Theology Well in a New Language 9. Rewriting Theology Well I: Rhetorics of Style and Voice 10 Writing with Theological Imagination Well: Rhetorics of Analogy, Metaphor,and Symbol 11. Rewriting Theology Well II: A Rhetoric of Revision Part IV: WritingTheology Well in Widening Contexts 12.WritingTheology in a New Language: Rhetorics of Communication, Enculturation, and Empowerment 13. Writing Theology Well 4.0:Writing and Learning Theology in an Electronic Age

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Book SynopsisIn this guide, Jill Middlemas introduces students to the Book of Lamentations by examining the book's structure and characteristics, covering the latest in biblical scholarship on Lamentations, including historical and interpretive issues, and considering a range of scholarly approaches. In particular, the guide provides students with an introduction to Hebrew poetry as it relates to Lamentations and includes insights from the field of trauma and postcolonial studies. With suggestions of further reading at the end of each chapter, this guide will be an useful accompaniment to study of Lamentations.Trade ReviewThis beautifully written work bristles with theological insight and exegetical acuity. Students and teachers will appreciate Jill Middlemas’s attention to the text’s poetic artistry, cultural setting and reception history, along with her focus on feminist and post-colonial criticism. A perfect primer for university and seminary classes! * Louis Stulman, University of Findlay, USA *This guide is rich with information, not only on the Book of Lamentations, but also on themes in current biblical interpretation such as poetry, composition, reader response and theology. Jill Middlemas takes her point of departure in the poetry of the book and this leads to a thorough reading of Lamentations as both a work of art and a source of theological reflection for readers. * Else Holt, Aarhus University, Denmark *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Lamentations as Literature 2. The Provenance and Historical Backdrop of Lamentations 3. Lamentations in Theology and Trauma Studies Bibliography Index

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