Perpetually Reforming: A Theology of Church Reform and Renewal

Description

One of the slogans of the reformation was ecclesia reformata semper reformanda - 'the reformed church always reforming'. Churches throughout the western world are currently engaged in reform and renewal programmes through internal structural reforms as well as movements such as 'emerging church'. This book presents a challenging theology of church reform and renewal that offers a contemporary understanding of this historic slogan. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, Bradbury discerns processes and practices which are perpetually reforming and renewing the identity of the church. It examines doctrinal and confessional conceptions of the church, re-examines texts concerned with covenantal renewal and explores Jewish-Christian dialogue as an example of renewal. A constructive theology is offered utilizing the categories of collective memory and mimetic practice. This upholds fundamental Christian identity, whilst driving the process of reform and renewal under God in the context of a three-way relationship between God, the church and the world.

John P. Bradbury is the Director of Studies in Theology and Church History at Westminster College, Cambridge. He is a minister of the United Reformed Church, and previously served in the centre of Liverpool, UK.

A worthy ecclesiological study, abounding in stimulating discussions and insights; a resource for all concerned with the integrity of the Christian Church. * Theology * An informed and thoughtful basis from which to explore how the church should and can renew its present practice in the light of the past and with hope for the future ... Those who persevere in reading this book will find considerable theological stimulation. * Journal of the United Reformed Church History Society * You will find plenty of rich reward in this book. The genuine relevance of this work to the entire CPCE is demonstrated by the fact that some of its key theories were incorporated into the CPCE's study of church reform. -- Dr. Henny Theissen, German Research Foundation & the University of Greifswald * CPCE FOCUS *