Kirjahaku

In The Widening Circle, Graham Tomlin explores an exhilarating new approach to priesthood. The author suggests that 'Priest' is much more than a term to describe certain Christian ministers - it is a vital category for understanding God's way of blessing his world. This world was made for joy: the joy of God and the joy of Creation. But to know that joy, the world needs the divine blessing that is focused in Jesus Christ, the only true High Priest. His priestly ministry consists of mediating between God and the world, perfecting that very creation, and then offering this perfected creation back to the God from whom it came. Yet this very ministry is enacted through others. As we explore how this priesthood of Christ has an impact on everyday life, we discover that the human race is chosen to play a priestly role between God and Creation. The Church is then called out to be a kingdom of priests, enabling humanity to fulfil its divine calling. And, finally, the minister himself or herself - experiencing as Christ did, both strands of priestly reality, the mundane and the heavenly, the routine and the remarkable, the normal and the numinous - is called to enable the rest of the Church to play its distinct part. In each case, the part is the means by which the whole becomes all that it is intended to be, in an ever widening circle of divine blessing, so that the world might know the joy for which it was created.

Sometimes Christians assume that people 'out there' are eager to listen to what the Church has to offer. But why should those we try to evangelize want to hear the gospel? Surely people will only be intrigued by Christian life and community when they see something provocative or attractive. Then they will want to know what's going on. The Provocative Church offers a liberating understanding of evangelism as a corporate activity, in which all the gifts needed to enact the life of the kingdom - to stir people into asking, 'What does this mean?' - are spread throughout the whole Church. It encourages the development of a theology of conversion that sees beyond 'becoming a Christian' to bring each individual life increasingly under the rule of God.

Building on the success of books offering key concepts in digestible form, Graham Tomlin writes for millennials and emerging adults who are seeking to make sense of life. Each of the ten chapters focuses on a common human experience - WONDER, LOVE, SUFFERING, SACRIFICE, SOUL, FREEDOM, TOGETHERNESS, CONNECTION, CHANGE, JOY - revealing how reflection on that experience points towards the God revealed in Christ. This is not a book of apologetics in the sense that it is arguing for the truth of Christianity; instead it shows how Christianity makes sense of our experience in a remarkably coherent way, opening up a much bigger and more exciting world than secular visions, or even other religious interpretations. It is written in a deliberately non-academic and popular style, though drawing on theological resources from the past.

'A powerful defence of Christian orthodoxy, opening up its expansive, generous and life-giving vision.' ALISTER McGRATH 'Learned and wise, this is a book that achieves what even many Christians may find a startling feat: a demonstration that orthodoxy is far more radical and interesting a concept than heresy.' TOM HOLLAND 'Generous orthodoxy' is a liberating outlook that encourages the Church to embrace different traditions of belief, worship and prayer within a broad framework of Christian faith. But is it really possible to be both generous and orthodox? In Navigating a World of Grace, Graham Tomlin offers his own invigorating vision of a generous orthodoxy that is rooted in the creeds' description of a God who is, by nature, the essence of generous grace. Looking at the history of the church, he explores how orthodoxy can enrich and enhance our perception of the world. Rather than restricting us, it liberates us to be generous in our expressions of faith. This tantalizingly different theology, that brings together the best from every tradition, shows why orthodoxy is so important to the Christian faith - and how it can bring us together as a revitalized, unified and visionary Church. Accessible and insightful, Navigating a World of Grace acts as a companion volume to The Bond of Peace but can also be read by itself as an exploration and celebration how Christians of all denominations can show generosity and grace in embracing different traditions of worship while remaining united by a single orthodoxy of faith. Ideal reading for anyone wanting to understand the meaning of generous orthodoxy better or how we can engage with different parts of the church with grace, this is an encouraging and inspiring vision for the future of the church. Navigating a World of Grace challenges us to see that adopting an attitude of generosity towards other Christians and those outside the Christian faith is part of orthodoxy, and will result in a deeper, fuller experience of God than we can possibly imagine.

The referendum may have rent the country asunder like no other issue in recent memory, but there are significant resonances with events in the past. Almost 500 years ago, in a sixteenth-century version of Article 50, Britain made a break from Europe, declaring the King - rather than the Pope - Supreme Head of the English Church. The split did not end the story. In the turmoil that followed, 'fake news' spread, families were divided and blood was shed. However, an attempt was made to find a peaceable solution. In this brief but powerful book, Graham Tomlin draws on that history to remind us of the age-old political and spiritual task of harmonizing past and future, identity and openness, the local and the universal. The events of the last three years have shown how polarization can affect even those who are naturally generous and accommodating; the challenge of rising above division, of loving our neighbours - and even our enemies - has never been greater for us all.

Martin Luther was one of the most influential figures of the last millennium, with around 900 million people worldwide belonging to Protestant churches that trace their origins back to the Reformation he started five hundred years ago. His thinking and his writing were always original, fresh, controversial and provocative. They evoked strong reactions then, and still do today.This book offers an accessible way into that thinking by looking at the way he approached a wide range of issues in his own time, and how some of that thinking might give us new ways to approach contemporary issues. Examining his approach to topics such as sex, freedom, prayer, evil, pilgrimage and Bible translation, it illustrates vividly the mind of this man who was very much of his time, yet whose ideas still speak creatively to the modern world. It combines scholarly insight into some of the key issues surrounding the study of Luther today, while being written in a style that makes it accessible to the non-specialist. The result is a book that serves as an ideal handbook for those wishing to get inside the mind of this most remarkable man.

Martin Luther was one of the most influential figures of the last millennium, with around 900 million people worldwide belonging to Protestant churches that can trace their origins back to the Reformation which he started five hundred years ago. His thinking and his writing were always original, fresh, controversial and provocative; evoking world-changing reactions in the sixteenth century that are still echoed today.This book offers an accessible path into Luther’s mode of thought, by paying close attention to the way he approached a wide range of issues in his own century, and how some of that thinking might give us new ways to approach contemporary issues. Analysing his approach to topics such as sex, freedom, prayer, evil, pilgrimage and Bible translation, Tomlin’s analysis vividly illustrates the mind of a man who was very much of his time, and yet whose ideas still speak creatively to the modern world and those who follow in his footsteps. Combining scholarly insight into some of the key issues surrounding the study of Luther today with a written style that renders it easily accessible to the academic and non-specialist alike, the result is an ideal guide for those wishing to get inside the mind of this most remarkable man.

500 years ago Luther set into motion a movement that would ultimately change the face of our world forever; the Reformation. In Luther and His World you will discover the man behind the movement who led the rebellion against the established church. The world of the early reformers is filled with danger, but also with purpose and passion. Martin Luther led battles, argued over doctrine and questioned how the church should go forward. In Luther and His World Graham Tomlin examines the build up towards the greatest rebellions in church history. How did it all unfold? Where did it begin? Why did it happen? After exploring all these questions, Graham offers his conclusions over how Luther's writings and teaching have revolutionized our world. Everyone interested in church history seeking a solid, accessible and engaging introduction to the Reformation and Martin Luther should read this book. It encapsulates the world in which the rebellion began and explains the outcomes of the revolutions with clarity and accuracy. "An accessible account of Luther, his life, thoughts, writings and all that surrounded him. Tomlin's writing is readable and informative... For most people, this packed-full, not so little, littlebook will be just enough for them to feel that they now 'get' Martin Luther." - Church of England Newspaper

"It's naughty but nice." "I know I shouldn't really, but it will be fun and won't do any harm." The idea of 'sin' today evokes smirks rather than shudders. We find it hard to see why our ancestors got so agitated about it: haven't we got beyond such prudery? By examining each of The Seven Deadly Sins in turn, Graham Tomlin restores sin to its proper place as something to be deeply feared. He shows how contemporary culture reverses traditional wisdom and finds each sin seductive in different ways. Tomlin demonstrates that these practices are destructive habits that ruin lives, relationships and societies. Finally, he shows how the Christian faith offers resources to help defeat these habits and replace them with more constructive ones. Writing for all those interested in personal spirituality and philosophy, the author offers an accessible guide to wise living.

A focus on physical fitness is part of modern culture, at least for some, with the number of gyms and memberships at an all-time high. Not so when it comes to spiritual fitness. Graham Tomlin argues that much of the modern church is spiritually flabby, its members lacking distinctiveness as Christians and its impact on modern culture correspondingly limited. What can be done? Physical health and fitness require discipline, self-denial and cost; so, too, with spiritual fitness. This is a very practical book giving churches and their members tools with which to start to reverse the trend of spiritual blandness, and to feel more confident as Christians in the modern world. Not only will this benefit those concerned but there will be a new impact on society as the church becomes more appealing, relevant and significant. This book is for all who feel dissatisfied with their Christian faith, who are concerned about the future of the church, or who want to see the church being much more relevant to modern culture.

Preaching's Preacher's Guide to the Best Bible Reference Paul's letters to the Philippians and Colossians celebrate the glory and supremacy of Jesus Christ and his saving work, a refrain that the reformers never grew tired of singing. While their tones are diverse, the clarity of their compositions and the power of their voices still reverberate today. Reformation commentators found the main themes of these Pauline letters deeply applicable to their circumstances, and volume editor Graham Tomlin urges that they are just as relevant to our own: Philippians overflows with thanksgiving in the midst of persecution and trials; Colossians defends the superiority of Jesus as Lord over all principalities and powers. For the Reformers as well as for Paul, all goodness and grace flows from Christ in whom "all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell" (Col 1:19), the Son who "made himself nothing" (Phil 2:7) in order to bring many daughters and sons to glory. This volume assembles a diverse chorus spanning place, time, and confessional differences: from Italian Reform-minded Catholic Gasparo Contarini and German Lutheran Martin Chemnitz, to Dutch Anabaptist Menno Simons, to French Reformed Theodore Beza and English Puritan Richard Sibbes. Scholars and pastors alike will find many fruitful insights from these and a number of other significant figures--most of whom enjoy fresh translations from the original, many for the first time in English.

Explores the origin and contours of the theology of the cross in three of its major practitioners, St. Paul, Martin Luther and Blaise Pascal.

'Readable and expert - a brilliant guide to the life and thought of 17th century Europe's supreme polymath'Tom Holland'A richly detailed account of Pascal's life and times, which displays an energetic sympathy for Pascal's startling combination of intellectual precocity and humble faith.'Rory Stewart'A beautiful, accessible account of one of the era's most remarkable lives'Katherine RundellHe lived for just 39 years, yet Blaise Pascal was one of the most remarkable and creative figures of the seventeenth century.He is known for his famous (though often misunderstood) argument 'the Wager', but there's so much more to him than that. Pascal can lay claim to have built an early version of the modern computer, done ground-breaking work in mathematics and geometry, invented urban bus transport and virtually invented probability theory. He also produced one of the most haunting and effective works of Christian apologetics ever written. He is a major intellectual figure at the beginning of the modern age who blends together in his own person and thinking issues that are critical to our age. Blaise Pascal is therefore a crucial figure: not just in the history of European thought, but for how he can shed light on our many contemporary debates.From science to scepticism; mystical experience to distraction; religion to politics, self-love and death, Pascal's thinking was far-reaching. In this captivating biography, Graham Tomlin explores Pascal's short but extraordinary life, and the sweeping impact and relevance of his ideas to the modern world.

In celebration of Alister E. McGrath's sixty-fifth birthday in 2018, this Festschrift aims to highlight him as a lauded scholar, who exemplifies an interface of science, theology, and religion. It comprises works by McGrath's theological allies and colleagues from diverse ecclesial homes including Graham Ward, Oliver Crisp, Tony Lane, Sung Wook Chung, Randall Zachman, Veli-Matti Karkkainen, Jonathan Wilson, Jeffrey P. Greenman, Robert Kolb, Sister Benedicta Ward, Michael Lloyd, Bethany Sollereder, and Patrick Franklin. Critical but appreciative is the posture with which these contributors engage the wide range of McGrath's own scholarly pursuits and publications. This volume, edited by Dennis Ngien, covers these themes that are central to the life and witness of the church: atonement, Christology, Trinity, eschatology, mission, Reformation, science, nature, culture, evangelism, and theodicy--there is much to ponder and reap here. Readers will join with the contributors and pay tribute to McGrath who has risen to a life of significance as a scientist turned theologian, professor, author, Christian apologist, and churchman. ""Alister McGrath is one of the most distinguished scholars of the theology of the Reformation in the world academic community, and this splendid volume is a fitting tribute to his achievements. The thoughtful, incisive work in this collection does full justice to the range of McGrath's interests and, collectively, attests to the continued relevance of serious scholarship to the role of Christianity in today's world."" --Andrew Pettegree, University of St. Andrews ""Ngien has assembled a fine collection of well-known theologians and essayists whose contributions reflect the breadth of McGrath's work to Christian theology over many years. This volume is a fitting tribute to McGrath's influential contributions to the study of the Reformation, the spiritual life of Christian faith, the conversation between theology and science, and, of course, to evangelical theology generally. McGrath's many students, readers, and admirers will find much to engage their intellects, encourage their thinking, and enliven their souls here."" --Philip G. Ziegler, University of Aberdeen ""This collection is a fitting tribute to the depth and range of Alister McGrath's life work. Written with verve and clarity, the essays explore some of the most challenging issues confronting Christian thinkers today, offering stimulating and often persuasive solutions. These issues include theodicy: why a good and omnipotent God permits evil to exist, especially natural evil--which is not the consequence of human freedom; the mystery of the holy Trinity, the Atonement, original sin and human freedom, Christology and 'the last things' (eschatology), among others. I have benefited greatly from reading these essays."" --Ian Gentles, Tyndale University College & Seminary, Toronto ""Dennis Ngien has edited a most helpful volume. Leading contributors from a variety of ecclesial homes show us the impact and influence of McGrath's work. Indeed, I am grateful for McGrath's lucid contribution to Christian theology and to Ngien's work in promoting its most salutary dimensions."" --Christopher Holmes, University of Otago, New Zealand ""As one of the doyens of Christian theology in our era, Alister McGrath is a voice of faith and reason. In this compendium, diverse theological themes are addressed by respected scholars who write as if his faithful and influential voice is whispering in their ears. This is a readable, erudite, and highly Trinitarian work that honors the legacy of the Reformation and reveals the importance of the Christian imaginarium in our time. In essence this is a work of doxology that places God at the center of all things. A must-read for preachers today."" --Andrew Stirling, Senior Minister, Timothy Eaton Memorial Church, Toronto; Fellow of Acadia Divinity College ""Alister McGrath's scholarly output has been both prodigious and dive

In celebration of Alister E. McGrath's sixty-fifth birthday in 2018, this Festschrift aims to highlight him as a lauded scholar, who exemplifies an interface of science, theology, and religion. It comprises works by McGrath's theological allies and colleagues from diverse ecclesial homes including Graham Ward, Oliver Crisp, Tony Lane, Sung Wook Chung, Randall Zachman, Veli-Matti Karkkainen, Jonathan Wilson, Jeffrey P. Greenman, Robert Kolb, Sister Benedicta Ward, Michael Lloyd, Bethany Sollereder, and Patrick Franklin. Critical but appreciative is the posture with which these contributors engage the wide range of McGrath's own scholarly pursuits and publications. This volume, edited by Dennis Ngien, covers these themes that are central to the life and witness of the church: atonement, Christology, Trinity, eschatology, mission, Reformation, science, nature, culture, evangelism, and theodicy--there is much to ponder and reap here. Readers will join with the contributors and pay tribute to McGrath who has risen to a life of significance as a scientist turned theologian, professor, author, Christian apologist, and churchman. ""Alister McGrath is one of the most distinguished scholars of the theology of the Reformation in the world academic community, and this splendid volume is a fitting tribute to his achievements. The thoughtful, incisive work in this collection does full justice to the range of McGrath's interests and, collectively, attests to the continued relevance of serious scholarship to the role of Christianity in today's world."" --Andrew Pettegree, University of St. Andrews ""Ngien has assembled a fine collection of well-known theologians and essayists whose contributions reflect the breadth of McGrath's work to Christian theology over many years. This volume is a fitting tribute to McGrath's influential contributions to the study of the Reformation, the spiritual life of Christian faith, the conversation between theology and science, and, of course, to evangelical theology generally. McGrath's many students, readers, and admirers will find much to engage their intellects, encourage their thinking, and enliven their souls here."" --Philip G. Ziegler, University of Aberdeen ""This collection is a fitting tribute to the depth and range of Alister McGrath's life work. Written with verve and clarity, the essays explore some of the most challenging issues confronting Christian thinkers today, offering stimulating and often persuasive solutions. These issues include theodicy: why a good and omnipotent God permits evil to exist, especially natural evil--which is not the consequence of human freedom; the mystery of the holy Trinity, the Atonement, original sin and human freedom, Christology and 'the last things' (eschatology), among others. I have benefited greatly from reading these essays."" --Ian Gentles, Tyndale University College & Seminary, Toronto ""Dennis Ngien has edited a most helpful volume. Leading contributors from a variety of ecclesial homes show us the impact and influence of McGrath's work. Indeed, I am grateful for McGrath's lucid contribution to Christian theology and to Ngien's work in promoting its most salutary dimensions."" --Christopher Holmes, University of Otago, New Zealand ""As one of the doyens of Christian theology in our era, Alister McGrath is a voice of faith and reason. In this compendium, diverse theological themes are addressed by respected scholars who write as if his faithful and influential voice is whispering in their ears. This is a readable, erudite, and highly Trinitarian work that honors the legacy of the Reformation and reveals the importance of the Christian imaginarium in our time. In essence this is a work of doxology that places God at the center of all things. A must-read for preachers today."" --Andrew Stirling, Senior Minister, Timothy Eaton Memorial Church, Toronto; Fellow of Acadia Divinity College ""Alister McGrath's scholarly output has been both prodigious and dive

In a postmodern world the church cannot escape the question of power. The contemporary critique of the church suggests that it reigned for so long in Western society not because it was more true than its rivals, but because it was more powerful. Is the Christian claim to truth merely a veiled bid for power? Has not the church regularly abused its power during the years of Christendom? Does Christian theology have the resources to answer these charges? This book argues that it does, in the quiet but recurrent theme of the theology of the cross. It explores the origins and contours of this kind of theology in three of its major exponents -- St. Paul, Martin Luther, and Blaise Pascal -- showing how each of them turned to a theology of the cross to combat the abuse of power within the church. It concludes by considering how such theology might do the same in the postmodern context. Of interest to anyone concerned with the role of the church in a postmodern world, or in the theology of the cross itself, this book explores vital themes for the church's life and thought both today and in the future.

Graham Tomlin suggests that the activity of the Holy Spirit is the key to a transforming knowledge of God, a radically emerged church and the hope for the future of a fragile and anxious world.