Plough Quarterly No. 14 - Re-Formation

This issue highlights the necessary reforms within the church on its 500th Reformation anniversary, featuring contributions from various thought leaders and exploring communal faith.

On the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, Plough Quarterly No. 14 - Re-Formation delves into the transformations the church requires in today's world. This landmark anniversary coincides with a significant recalibration of Christianity, arguably the most profound since the fourth century. The traditional Christendom, a framework where Christianity defined Western laws and societal norms, has faced increasing instability since the Enlightenment. In the face of secularization, consumerism, and the sexual revolution, Christians are now confronted with the reality of being a minority. This moment calls for reflection on Karl Barth’s assertion that the church must continually seek reform.

In this issue, contributors like George Weigel and Eberhard Arnold urge the church to return to its foundational sources, drawing inspiration from the first Christians. For these early believers, faith was not merely a Sunday obligation but a radical commitment to a countercultural way of life. Rowan Williams emphasizes the importance of this fellowship of discipleship, which stands in stark contrast to the surrounding pagan society. As Christians today are reminded by Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, there is a call to embrace our identity as a creative minority.

Additionally, Plough Quarterly No. 14 - Re-Formation features insights from pastors Jin Kim and Claudio Oliver on communal Christianity, while Andreas Knapp and Cécile Massie highlight the resilience of the persecuted church in regions like Syria and Turkey. Editor Peter Mommsen reflects on the legacy of the Radical Reformation, providing a comprehensive exploration of faith in action through articles, poetry, reviews, and art, all aimed at inspiring readers to live out Jesus' teachings in their daily lives.