Theologies of Retrieval: An Exploration and Appraisal

Description

One of the most significant trends in academic theology today, which emerges within Protestant, Roman Catholic, and Orthodox points of view, is the growing interest in theologies of retrieval. This mode of thinking puts a special stress upon subjecting classic theological texts to a close reading, with a view toward using the resources that they provide to understand and address contemporary theological issues. This volume offers an understanding of what theologies of retrieval are, what their rationale is, and what their strengths and weaknesses are. The contributions provided by a distinguished team of theologians answer the important questions that existing work has raised, expand on suggestions that have not yet been fully developed, summarize ideas to highlight themes that are relevant to the topics of this volume, and air new critiques that will spur further debate.

Darren Sarisky is Tutor in Doctrine and Ministry at Wycliffe Hall and member of the Faculty of Theology and Religion at the University of Oxford, UK.

The Christian tradition is rich with perennial truths about who God is and who we are in relation to him. The work of theology requires the wisdom and insight to determine whether and how to mine those truths in ways that are not only faithful to their original presentation but also relevant to addressing the concerns and challenges of our times. This book brings into fruitful conversation some of the leading voices in the debate, providing a valuable resource for those prepared to undertake the arduous and delicate task of retrieval. * Lydia Schumacher, King's College London, United Kingdom * Sarisky's Theologies of Retrieval is a significant and indispensable contribution to the central problem of theology: its relation to its historical past and tradition and its ability to retrieve in a creative way what is central to the ongoing life of Christian communities. Sarisky has assembled a top list of diverse theologians, who engage the main issues both historically and constructively. The book is a must read for anyone and any course interested in the Christian tradition and its retrieval. * Francis Schussler Fiorenza, Harvard Divinity School, USA *