The Future of Christian Theology: 45 (Wiley-Blackwell Manifestos) - Softcover

Ford, David F.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1405142731 ISBN 13: 9781405142731

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell, 2011

Synopsis

The Future of Christian Theology represents a personal manifesto from one of the world's leading theologians, exploring the ways Christian theology in the twenty-first century has been, and can now continue to be, both creative and wise. * Represents an outstanding and engaging account of the task of theology today * Offers an insightful description of what makes for discerning and creative theology. * Written from the perspective of decades of experience, and in close dialogue with theologians of other faiths * Features a strong interfaith and public theology dimension, and a contemporary portrait of the field from the inside * A hopeful and illuminating search for wisdom and understanding in the increasingly complex religious and secular world of the twenty-first century.

About this title

Review:

"In my opinion, this book's readability is its greatest strength because here it comes closest to serving his purpose: to stimulate readers to seek wisdom and thereby assist them in shaping not only their personal lives but society." (Studies in Religion, 1 September 2013)

"Thus far, the volume is of general interest, but there follows two more specialist chapters which cover academic teaching, curriculum shaping and funding and then the process of learning to be a theologian." (Evangelical Quarterly, 3 July 2012)

"This thoughtful and encouraging book forms part of a new series addressing contemporary debates and controversies in the humanities and social sciences . . . The book deserves to be read prayerfully and I hope it will find its way into the hands of those training for ministry as well as parish clergy and congregationalleaders." (Religion & Theology, 1 August 2012)

"Ford's central achievement, then, is his insistence on a model of theology that bears witness to the unity, diversity, and vibrancy of twenty-first century Christianity." (The Furrow, 1 September 2012)

"The Future of Christian Theology is a book which is at once as bold and exciting as it is sensitive and wise. . . The book marks the very best of what that series might provide: written in exceptionally clear and accessible prose, it is nevertheless profound and deep. . . I cannot imagine any theologian or church person who would not find the reading of this book a beneficial enterprise. It is a must for all who care about the health of theology, the Church and - even more broadly - the world of which they are a part." (Theology, 1 November 2011)

"This book represents a mature summary of his academic and institutional vision." (Church Times, 23 September 2011)

"Ford writes exegesis that does more than illustrate; it leads . . . It's really, really good . . . Few theologians writing today are better positioned to see where theology needs to stay the same and where it needs to change for a new century." (The Christian Century, 18 April 2011)

"He also writes beautifully in a book that sparkles with insights and that is attentive to the diversity of settings and media in which theology is articulated. This work is eloquent, fluent and vibrant; it draws upon deep scholarship, carried lightly; it moves along at a brisk pace with an exhilarating tone, one that appreciates the rich variety within Christianity and it combines a serious concern for Christian integrity with a generous inclusivity towards and a desire to collaborate with and learn from people of other faiths." (Theological Book Review, 2011)

"The Future of Christian Theology by Prof David Ford of Cambridge (Wiley-Blackwell, £50) is another feast of good things: a book to widen horizons and deepen spirituality . . .So, two splendid books to feed minds and hearts." (Methodist Recorder, 21 July 2011)

"In the meantime, Ford's timely, stylish and passionate manifesto gives theologians plenty of work to be getting on with." (The Tablet, 23 April 2011)

From the Back Cover:

In The Future of Christian Theology, one of the world's leading theologians tackles the question of how we should think about Christian faith and practice today -- and especially tomorrow. With engaging clarity and great insight, the book explores the ways Christian theology in the twenty-first century can face the challenges of our complex religious and secular world in a way that is creative, empathetic, and wise.

Inspired by a passion for wisdom, noted Christian theologian David Ford seeks to answer some of the most thought-provoking questions in contemporary theological thinking and scholarship. After addressing the reasons why the past century has been one of the most fruitful in the history of Christian thought, Ford looks forward to explore some of the most important and generative ways to consider contemporary theological issues. Themes and topics covered include what makes for 'good theology, ' the relationship of Christian theology to church, academy, society, and other faiths; and what it takes to become a theologian in today's world. At the heart of Ford's vision for theology is the God of love and wisdom who stretches minds, hearts, and imaginations by inviting people deeper into the drama of contemporary life and thought. Above all, this theology faces the challenges of -- and our responses to -- the cries of suffering, joy, fear, wonder, despair, desire, and more that pervade our world.

About this edition

• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 1405142731
• ISBN 13: 9781405142731
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 254