Showing papers in "Theology in 2018"

New directions in theology, church and sports: A brief overview and position statement:

Abstract: There has been a significant increase in scholarship, empirical research (within both theology and the social sciences) and church-based initiatives focused on sport and Christianity during the las...

Difficult texts: Psalm 1:

Abstract: Psalm 1 poses a challenge for the Christian preacher regarding the grim judgement passed on the wicked. This study examines how thinking types and feeling types among preachers approach the challen...

The pixelated text: Reading the Bible within digital culture:

Abstract: This article looks at Bible engagement in a digital age, focusing both on multimedia engagement with the Bible through the ages and on the changes that new technologies bring to the reading process...

Changing patterns in recruitment to stipendiary ministry: A study in psychological profiling:

Abstract: This article tests the hypothesis that the Church of England may be recruiting into stipendiary ministry a different psychological profile of clergy to respond to the changing demands of parochial ...

Commemorating C. E. Rolt (1881–1918):

Abstract: C. E. Rolt (1881–1918) is generally known for his translation of Pseudo-Dionysius. He was, however, a theologian in his own right, whose writing continues to be influential today. Marking the cente...

Islam Rahmatan Lil 'Alamin

Abstract: This research found that Islam rah}matan li al-‘aglamign in Shamsi Ali's thought is a grace or welfare for the entire universe, Moslem and non Moslem as well. The concept of Islam rah}matan li al-‘aglamign according to Shamsi Ali is implemented in the Muslim's lifestyle that devoted, peaceful, moderate, dynamic, progressive, democratic, and respectful toward differences which constitutes a blessing and positive contribution to human welfare and dignity. Islam rah}matan li al-‘aglamign is described in the gait ofn da'wah of Shamsi Ali through bi al-Lisagn da'wah, bi al-Qalagm da'wah, and bi al-H{agl da'wah by combining various models of da'wah which is also partly known in Christian mission: spiritual growth preaching model, educational preaching model, inclusive preaching model, and open preaching model. The last two models of preachings are unknown in the literature of Christian mission theory and at the same time will be Shamsi Ali's contribution in the development of da'wah theory. This research promotes some of the previous researches: First, Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf, who stated that the Muslim community in America has applied the Islam rah}matan li al-‘aglamign which characterized by building a strong vision to unify moderates, anti-violence and against extremism. Second, Mohamed Al - Hilali explains there isn effectiveness nofn leadership that can be felt by Islam in America. Third, Julie Nava wrote that Muhammad Shamsi Ali is a figure representing Islam rah}matan li al-‘aglamign principles. Fourth, Muhammad Fethullah Gulen in Turkey and out side Turkey has proved himself to be an example in applying Islam rah}matan li al-‘aglamign. This study refuses or does not support the research ofn Noor Ul Mobeen which stated that the first generation of Muslim students' leadership in America in 2009-2012 failed in spelling out Islam rah}matan li al-‘aglamign. The approach used in this research: religion, history, leadership, and communication, while the method uses grounded research. n n

Theology’s part-time future: A fresh initiative in theological education and religious literacy?:

Abstract: Recent drops in the number of full-time theology and religious studies students in the UK raise concerns for all universities with departments of theology and religion. Without denying the importan...

A scientist reads Job 42.3

Abstract: As a scientist, I read Job 42.3 by noting that both science and theology are limited in their capacity to understand our world and the divine nature. However, wonder, a core concept within the vers...

The Analysis of the Translation of 'אֲמֻצִּים' in Zechariah 63 and 67

Abstract: There are some ancient sacred texts for Christianity such as Hebrew Bible, Syriac Peshitta, Septuagint, Aramaic Targum and Latin Vulgate. However, the translation of these ancient texts is not always having the same nuance or literal meaning. Zechariah 6:3 and 6:7 are one example. The word “אמצים” or strong has been translated diversely in our ancient sacred texts. Therefore, this paper will attempt to discuss multiple translations for the word “אמצים” or strong. The discussion will cover the purpose of these various translations. The possible reason behind the selection of the meaning will also be discussed in this paper.

Meric Srokosz and Rebecca S. Watson, Blue Planet, Blue God: The Bible and the Sea

Abstract: Torrey and Alexander and Billy Graham, as well as persons more embedded in denominational identities such as Spurgeon, Lloyd-Jones and Sangster. I link revivalism with the loosening of the sense of denominational identity in favour of a generic Evangelical Christian identity. There are other questions to be put. The emergence of the Franciscans is not related to the sociological concept of ‘the order’. The sociological dichotomy of ‘church’ and ‘sect’ is too easily dismissed in the context of the New World. There are quasi-churches in particular territorial areas and sects are still active, such as the Mennonites, defined by territorial segregation and a peace witness. A final question to be asked goes in the reverse direction. In the south Indian situation, do not the numerous Christian bodies emerge as denominations, while in the north-western Indian states of the margin, such as Mizoram, do not denominations emerge as virtual territorial churches?

Carcass and cross: Discovering the sacred in the secular:

Abstract: The body is a dialogical, incarnational and sacramental entity. But how may the Christian imagination conceptualize and depict this fact? This contribution uses a provocative piece of art as a mode...

‘You are all quacks; if only you would shut up’ (Job 13.4b–5a): Sin and illness in the sacred and the secular, the ancient and the modern:

Abstract: This article focuses on the theme of illness within the dialogue between the character of Job and his ‘friends’ (Job 3—37). It looks specifically at the different explanatory models used by the characters to interpret and contextualize Job’s condition and explores language of sin and blame in illness. A key contribution of this article is to highlight the problematic nature of moralizing and searching for meaning during illness and to emphasize the need for greater empathy.

Sacred bones, stones, stories: St Albans and Bethel:

Abstract: The interpretation of both scripture and ancient sacred buildings is complex, but the comparison is illuminating. Both show traces of development through time but form a coherent unity. Both have h...

Cult books revisited: John Austin Baker’s The Foolishness of God

Abstract: A reconsideration of the late Bishop John Austin Baker’s seminal book The Foolishness of God.

Understanding responsibilization in healthcare: Differentiations in Reformation theology:

Abstract: The responsibilization of patients for their disease and care may imply reduced access to medical care or overly moralize the doctor–patient relationship. This article first examines Luther’s early...

Heinz Schilling, Martin Luther: Rebel in an Age of Upheaval:

Abstract: The nagging question I had was why the theology that emerged from the 1960s has proved so short-lived in the Church and has been overtaken by the lightweight evangelicalism that prevails today. I think that one of the problems is that you can only go so far if dogma and institution are the perpetual enemies. Strudwick judges the Church for freezing its most precious spiritual assets in the interests of establishing conformity. But this is too one-sided. There is a place for the great consolidators. Constantine did his bit for the Church, and so did Aquinas, but the former is judged harshly and the latter is omitted altogether. In the end, Strudwick admits that, however much his vocation has been as a wrestling outsider, he is also very much an insider and regrets the cultural losses that have come with the Church’s decline. Nevertheless, he is surely right that ecclesia semper reformanda.

Nick Spencer, The Political Samaritan: How Power Hijacked a Parable:

Abstract: Such language carries the theology, and poetics plays a crucial part. Throughout his analysis, Jasper criticizes the tendency to seek out simplicity as a key criterion in developing new and revised liturgical material. He also points to the fracture between liturgy and performance. Earlier in the tradition, he notes a clear element of spontaneity, adjuring a pattern rooted in inflexible approaches to common prayer. Another recurring theme within Jasper’s analysis is the ineluctable use of metaphor in liturgical language, which abhors a crude literalism. He demonstrates the common ground between Cranmer, Tyndale and Coverdale in relation to Shakespeare, Lancelot Andrewes and the broader literary tradition of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Pointing to the general shift from an oral to a largely written culture, Jasper pleads for a rediscovery of a ‘lingering orality’. Clarity and simplicity are not the necessary conditions for effective liturgical language, and he argues that comparative approaches to the liturgy, notably ecumenical, have had a negative effect on liturgical revision. His engagement with both the ASB and Common Worship is spirited, and his analysis of the revision of collects instructive. This should be a compulsory text for liturgists and liturgical reformers, but Jasper is not an easy read. His impressively wide reading – frequently offering brief snatches of condensed arguments from a variety of sources – often makes the reader wish he might have rested and stayed awhile at various points throughout the books. He notes, however, that this critique does not offer a blueprint. That is clear throughout. Indeed, one might have asked for a few more signposts for the road ahead – avoiding some of the potholes and wrong turnings of the past 50 years. There were one or too curious omissions: some reference to Austin Farrer’s work on images would have been interesting, especially as he was a member of the Liturgical Commission early on. Also, a note of Cathy Hammond’s recent work in this area would have been useful. For all that, there are essential lessons to be learned here.

Forgiveness, pardon and justice: Critical reflections on Eric Lomax’s The Railway Man:

Abstract: This piece examines the famous event whereby Eric Lomax, author of The Railway Man, forgives the Japanese interpreter, Nagase, for his involvement in his torture in 1943. I consider the circumstanc...

The atheist problem of disease: Who’s to blame?:

Abstract: A cancer diagnosis is often accompanied by many questions with ‘Why me?’ prominent among them. This question is asked by Job in the midst of his suffering, but ultimately he has an answer: God is in some way behind it. Although not a simple explanation, this does offer a degree of comfort and hope. The atheist or agnostic though cannot appeal to the certainty of a personal God. A superficial scientific explanation ‘blames’ genetic mutation on cancer, but while this gives some answers, it fails to offer a comfort or hope similar to that which Job experienced. Indeed, modern medics could be accused of lacking empathy and compassion when reliant on purely scientific explanations for the origin of an illness. The book of Job is a reminder that such superficial explanations of illness are rarely helpful when used alone and outside of a supportive and empathic relationship.

Alex Deagon, From Violence to Peace: Theology, Law and Community

Abstract: compilation of four short books focusing on each gospel, the text is completed by five very practical appendices. An analysis of the processes used by the Church to select its future ordained ministers will be invaluable to those preparing for bishops advisory panels (the means by which would-be priests in the Church of England enter training), while the words of the legal oaths and declarations made by ordinands, together with the liturgy of ordination, a list of Bible stories referencing calling and suggestions of other resources will aid individuals examining a vocation. Although clearly aimed at candidates for Anglican ordained ministry, the book deserves a wider audience. Burridge wears his scholarship lightly, but his knowledge of the New Testament is woven so seamlessly throughout the text that each study of Jesus’ ministry has the potential to reveal new depths of understanding or inspire fresh insights into familiar stories. With a nice line in imagery and the straightforward practicality forged in over 30 years of ordained ministry, Burridge offers sensible advice both to those wondering if they could be called and those questioning how to refresh an existing ministry. The insights gained from long service as a bishops’ adviser allow him to challenge complacent assumptions about Christian vocation (his chapters on Mark’s Gospel and the way of the cross remind readers that ministry is likely to be exhausting and at times overwhelming) while offering helpful suggestions of topics for prayer and reflective practices to underpin the discernment process and help candidates prepare for a panel. Many of the questions Burridge raises are asked of candidates by those who examine vocations, or of clergy by spiritual directors, and are crucial markers of a mature and disciplined faith. It is enormously helpful to have them set down in the context of wise spirituality and theological acuity. I will be encouraging candidates for ordained ministry to read this book and will also return regularly to it myself.

New directions in adult baptism: Baptism in a secular culture:

Abstract: In this article I argue that the rise of secular culture demands a new approach to baptism, especially the baptism of adult converts for whom the claims of Christianity may be entirely unfamiliar a...

Cult books revisited: Jacques Ellul’s The Presence of the Kingdom

Abstract: An assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of Jacques Ellul’s classic book The Presence of the Kingdom, now available in a new translation.

Theology after Brexit: Does Martin’s Biblical Truths really liberate biblical interpretation from academic control and for real-life Christianity?:

Abstract: In his recent book, Dale Martin, Woolsey Professor of Religious Studies at Yale, offers an apologetic for a nonfoundational reading of Scripture. He begins his argument with a demonstration of the inadequacy of the historical-critical model by critiquing two of its more influential exponents (one each at either end of the theological spectrum): Rudolf Bultmann and George Eldon Ladd. He concludes that:

Jesus at the well (John 4.4–42): Our approach to the ‘other’:

Abstract: This article employs the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman in John 4 as a prism through which to examine Christian perceptions of and approaches to the outsider – especially the ‘foreigner’, t...