Biblical hermeneutics – how to read and understand Biblical passages – become even more contested when such passages are read inter-culturally, and about contested personal and social issues, like Jesus’ words on forgiveness in Matthew 18. Empirical studies like this show how deeply contested such readings truly are in the context of South African churches, with their painful histories of division and conflict. Future academic work will benefit from the creative and careful methodological approach developed in this study. The author offers resources for reading and conversation for everyone concerned with public life today. This is public theology in action, showing how faith matters – without prescribing answers, but rather by invitation to join an informed discussion.

Theological reflections on church and society by a group of young Methodist theologians from Southern Africa. They share insights on a number of urgent contemporary issues – including how to evaluate truth, interpreting scripture, environmental issues, the use of money, seeking an African Methodist liturgy, reading the faith through women’s eyes, a practical response to Christian gay women, and youth development in church and society. Their viewpoints are diverse, sometimes provocative, always stimulating.