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Books > Religion & Spirituality > Christianity > Christian theology > General
Up until the second half of the 20th century, the American
Presbyterian creed has been the confessional tradition of the
Westminster Assembly (1643-48). Presbyterians in America adopted
the Westminster Confession nd Catechisms in 1729 through a
compromise measure that produced ongoing debate for the next
hundred years. Differences over the meaning of confessional
subscription were a continuing cause of the Presbyterian schisms of
1741 and 1837. The Presbyterian Creed is a study of the factors
that led to the 19th-century Old School/New School schism and the
Presbyterian reunions of 1864 and 1870. In these American
Presbyterian reunions, American Presbyterians finally reached
consensus on the meaning of confessional subscription which had
previously been so elusive.
Despite the differences of their subject matter, science and
theology have a cousinly relationship, John Polkinghorne contends
in his latest thought-provoking book. From his unique perspective
as both theoretical physicist and Anglican priest, Polkinghorne
considers aspects of quantum physics and theology and demonstrates
that the two truth-seeking enterprises are engaged in analogous
rational techniques of inquiry. His exploration of the deep
connections between science and theology shows with new clarity a
common kinship in the search for truth.
The author identifies and explores key similarities in quantum
physics and Christology. Among the many parallels he identifies are
patterns of historical development in quantum physics and in
Christology; wrestling with perplexities such as quantum
interpretation and the problem of evil; and the drive for an
overarching view in the Grand Unified Theories of physics and in
Trinitarian theology. Both theology and science are propelled by a
desire to understand the world through experienced reality, and
Polkinghorne explains that their viewpoints are by no means
mutually exclusive.
Is Christianity for those who can't get a life? What use is a dying
God? Why is the Church so naff? If you've faced questions like
these and felt tongue-tied, this is the book for you. It will help
you talk more confidently with your friends about the hope that
keeps you going. And during those times when you find that you are
questioning your faith, the answers and ideas here may help you
come to a deeper understanding of what you really believe. The
user-friendly format of each chapter begins with a 'What they say'
section. The author then identifies the key issue, before
suggesting (in reassuring detail) how you might respond. All
through the book you will find stories, as well as inspiring,
poignant and witty quotes to work into your conversations whenever
the opportunity may arise!
Was Jesus divine? Was Jesus human? Could God suffer? Can people
save themselves by their own efforts? Do Christian ministers have
to be perfect? These and other questions were answered by the early
Christian Church so as to rule in certain orthodox beliefs and rule
out certain heretical beliefs. Anyone could be a Christian, but a
Christian could not believe simply anything. Here, twelve top
theologians, all practising Christians, tackle ancient heresies and
show why the contemporary Church still needs to know about them.
The contributors argue that heresies are never finally defeated but
always continue in some form or other as live options for belief.
Christians therefore need to remember what these great early
heresies were and why they were ruled out, or else risk falling
prey to their modern-day manifestations. The essays included here
are scholarly but accessible, academic but highly relevant. They
show how attractive and plausible heresies are and how the Church
has always required intellectual effort, moral courage and
political skill to resist them.
Looks at the history of Black theology, discusses its relationship
to white and liberation theology, and identifies new directions for
Black churches to take in the eighties.
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