The Word and the Christ
An Essay in Analytic Christology
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Oxford University Press
Published:21st Mar '91
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
Among the wide range of criticisms of Christological orthodoxy now current, there has appeared until now no comprehensive summary of the attacks, and, consequently, no full defence of the orthodox position. By filling both needs this book makes a real contribution to the detailed and controversial discussion of incarnational Christology. The structure of the book falls into three parts. In the first, Dr Sturch presents a complete overview of current objections and of the reasons that have led many theologians to believe that traditional Christology needs drastic revision, or rests on a mistake. The second section seeks to analyse orthodox doctrine and the requirements of an accurate Christology. It concludes that the link between God and Man in Christ must reside in some common element, but that this would entail denying His humanity unless the element were some kind of `central self'. The third part considers the objections to traditional orthodoxy raised in the first, and argues persuasively that, in the light of the analysis in the second part, they are either unfounded or misdirected.
`a closely argued essay, questing for truth through an exhaustive analytical agenda of questions and answers.' Vernon White, The Expository Times.
`Sturch's coverage is comprehensive and his criticism of revisionist Christologies cogently argued ... ' Alastair Logan, Theology.
`a comprehensive survey of the (mostly) modernist criticism which has been savaging orthodox doctrines of incarnation in recent times.' Vernon White, Expository Times
`A packed and closely argued book offering a defence of christological orthodoxy with a good summary of contemporary debates on the Incarnation... It is a sensitive guide to the work of many scholars through the ages down to the present... beautifully produced'. Martin Baddeley, Theological Book Review, vol 4, Oct 91.
'able and striking defence of traditional incarnation doctrine ... Sturch's coverage is comprehensive and his criticism of revisionist Christologies cogently argued.' Alastair Logan, University of Exeter, Theology
'There are many fine insights in this volume which help to make the defence of orthodoxy plausible. A long shelf-life is deserved.' Adrian Thatcher, Journal of Theological Studies.
'So convincing is his presentation that at times the reader may wonder whether Sturch himself is in agreement. Sturch's book is a detailed defence of the Incarnation and a creative, intelligent, and enterprising endeavour to grasp, in faith, its mystery.' Thomas Weinandy, O.F.M., CAP. New Blackfriars, May 1992
'a clear and accurate exposition of major objections raised against the doctrine of the incarnation ... This is a useful work which makes a substantial contribution to the contemporary discussion of the incarnation. Its particular strengths lie in its fair and balanced presentation of opposing views ... this book can readily be recommended as a thoughtful addressing of issues too readily dismissed by some contemporary writers on Christology.' John P. Galvin, The Catholic University of America, The Heythrop Journal, April 1993, Volume 34, Number 2
'This book is a very painstaking and elaborate defense of orthodoxy concerning Christ, as that is formulated in the Thirty Nine Articles. What is impressive in this book is the sheer scope and detail in the discussion of opposing authors. It is a quite extraordinary feat of erudition as he finds his way easily through a thick forest of testimonies ... very competent book.' Monika K. Hellwig, Georgetown University, Theological Studies
Those who want to find their way through the maze of recent writing on Christology could probably do no better than to read this book ... his prose is lively, often informed, and always clearheaded ... he loves not only clarity and Christology but also, evidently, the Christ whom Christology honours by its endeavor to understand clearly. When was the last time you read a weighty volume of contemporary theology that ended with its author requesting your prayers? * Anglican Theological Review *
ISBN: 9780198261988
Dimensions: 224mm x 144mm x 23mm
Weight: 515g
302 pages