T&T Clark Handbook of Ecclesiology

Description

Divided into 3 parts, this handbook provides a wide-ranging survey and analysis of the Christian Church. The first section addresses the scriptural foundations of ecclesiology; the second section outlines the historical and confessional aspects of the topic; and the final part discusses a variety of contemporary and topical themes in ecclesiology. Compiled and written by leading scholars in the field, the T&T Clark Handbook of Ecclesiology covers a range of key topics in the context of their development and importance in each stream of historic Christianity and the confessional traditions. The contributors cover traditional matters such as creedal notes, but also tackle questions of ordination, orders of ministry, and sacraments. This handbook is extensive enough to provide a true overview of the field, but the essays are also concise enough to be read as reference selections.

Kimlyn J. Bender is Professor of Christian Theology at Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University, USA. D. Stephen Long is Professor of Ethics at Southern Methodist University, USA.

From a learned and diverse set of contributors, this handbook presents both familiar ecclesiological themes and fresh engagement with the fullness of Christ's body. Both academic fashions and less fashionable traditions make their appearances. As a result, this encyclopedic reference work will be an excellent resource for ongoing theological reflection. -- Daniel J. Treier, Wheaton College, USA As the church's power wanes in the West and waxes elsewhere, Kimlyn J. Bender and D. Stephen Long have given us an invaluable resource for rethinking ecclesiology. Traversing scripture, history, doctrine, and ethics, there is no better single volume for advancing the conversation on how best the church can bridge the human and the divine. -- William T. Cavanaugh, DePaul University, USA This collection is unique in quality and range, addressing the church's scriptural foundations, its confessional traditions, and the doctrinal framework for ecclesiology. It provides both an invaluable reference point and a strong impetus towards further research in the field. -- Simon Oliver, Durham University, UK