Spirit of Liberality

George Newlands is Professor Emeritus of Divinity in the University of Glasgow and an Honorary Fellow in the University of Edinburgh. A Fellow of Royal Society of Edinburgh, he is a former Dean of Trinity Hall, Cambridge. Recent publications include Christ and Human Rights (2006) and Hospitable God (2010).

"Liberal theology is not dead! In this outstanding series of essays, as well as giving a liberal meaning to the word liberal, the author shows that liberal thought has been present in theology throughout the ages, and that it is to be celebrated, not feared."- Keith Ward, former Canon, Christ Church, Oxford"These essays offer an account of liberal theology in conversation with the classical Christian tradition. Set within the context of contemporary problems in the academy, church, and society, the collection shows how an unashamedly liberal approach may be pursued today in faithfulness to the cause of Jesus. Informed by Newlands's characteristic wit and wisdom, the volume will provide no small measure of enjoyment and illumination."- David Fergusson, Professor of Divinity, University of Edinburgh"In Spirit of Liberality, George Newlands offers a series of essays and sermons charting the contours of a vibrant liberal theology. With characteristic passion and discernment, he engages a wide array of discourses and figures, embodying the inclusive approach to the theological task for which his work calls, and challenging the reader to reconceive the contemporary shape of a faithful response to the gospel. Radical yet grounded, prophetic yet humble, and above all insightful, this collection comes highly recommended."- Paul T. Nimmo, Professor in Systematic Theology, University of Aberdeen"George Newlands continues his life-long scholarship to develop and envelop an emancipatory strand of liberal theology back into the conversation. The wide variety of topics and figures that are discussed... are both exhaustive and refreshing. The volume is full of wit, candor, humility, and ambition. ... These essays are vast in their scope, but accessible to many readers. I urge anyone who engages from within or outside of the liberal theological persuasion to read these essays, take them seriously, and respond critically to their sense of purpose."- Kyle Trowbridge, Reading Religion, Sept 14, 2017

• PrefaceAbbreviations1 The Spirit, the Academy, and the Vertical City2 Faith after Faith-Perplexed and Unperplexed3 Luther's Ghost4 Humane Spirit5 Christianity and Culture6 Public Theology in Postfoundational Tradition7 John Macquarrie in Scotland8 John McIntyre and History9 Religion and Democracy10 Incarnation11 Adolf von Harnack12 Faith, Slavery, and Human Rights13 Affirmation Scotland, Gay Christians, and Equality14 In Church15 Christian Futures16 A Journey into TheologyAuthor Biography and BibliographyBibliographyIndex of Names