Description
Book Synopsis"A rare and wonderful theological book that turns something ordinary--being a friend--into an expression of God's greatness."--Jeremiah Rood, Foreword (starred review) In this vibrant theological reflection on the meaning of friendship, experienced pastor and leading Christian ethicist Victor Lee Austin argues that friendship is the medium through which God shares grace with his creatures. Mixing personal reflection and theological commentary, Austin provides a fresh reading of classical writers and biblical texts; shows how a robust theology of friendship addresses contemporary controversies in the areas of marriage, celibacy, and homosexuality; and draws on cultural examples of the desire for true friendship. Ultimately, Austin helps readers understand the strange yet real possibility of friendship with God. About the Series Pastors are called to help people navigate the profound mysteries of being human, from birth to death and everything in between. This series, edited by leading pastoral theologian Jason Byassee, provides pastors and pastors-in-training with rich theological reflection on the various seasons that make up a human life, helping them minister with greater wisdom and joy.
Table of ContentsContents
Series Preface
Invocation
Introduction: An Invitation to Friendship
1. The Limits of Marriage
2. The Confusions of Friendship
3. Friendship as Success at Being Human
4. Friendship and Beauty
5. The Weirdness of Divine Love
6. Biblical Friendships
7. Christian Friendship and Christian Love
8. Unapologetic Celibacy
9. Is There Friendship in the Trinity?
10. Examples of Friendship
11. All Together Now
Postscript: Concrete Practices
