An Introduction to the Trinity (Introduction to Religion)
Cambridge University Press, 11/11/2010
EAN 9780521879521, ISBN10: 0521879523
Hardcover, 262 pages, 22.8 x 15.2 x 1.6 cm
Language: English
Over the last decade there has been a resurgence of writing on the Trinity, indicating a renewal of ideas and debate concerning this key element of Christian theology. This introduction challenges the standard account of a decline and revival in Trinitarian theology, taking into account recent, alternative readings of the theological tradition by Lewis Ayres and Michel Barnes amongst other scholars. By clearly analysing the scope of these new approaches, the authors establish the importance of a considered understanding of the Trinity, resisting the notion of separating faith and reason and identifying theology's link to spirituality. Their account also eschews the easy stereotypes of Western Christianity's supposedly more Unitarian approach as opposed to the more Trinitarian view of the East. Offering an overview of the main people and themes in Trinitarian theology past and present, this book thus provides an accessible, comprehensive guide for students and scholars alike.
Abbreviations
1. Introducing Trintarian theology
2. The Trinity and its scriptural roots
3. The doctrine of the Trinity
its emergence and development in the life of the Christian community
4. Theology of the Trinity from Richard of St Victor to the reformation
5. The Trinity from Schleiermacher to the end of the twentieth century
6. Contemporary Trinitarian theology
problems and perspectives
Epilogue
Index.
'This is a first class lucid survey of the development of Trinitarian theology and its ethical and spiritual implications in the history of Christianity, both East and West. Marmion and Van Nieuwenhove have succeeded in making intelligible the most complex of debates and even more, showing why they were necessary for a serious doctrine of God.' Gavin D'Costa, University of Bristol