David F. Ford – författare

This Oxford Reader encompasses the two-thousand year history of responses to Jesus of Nazareth. The selected readings are arranged into seven chronological chapters, which are in turn organized thematically. More than 340 extracts are included, with familiar materials from key texts in the history of doctrine presented alongside a diverse sample of devotional, popular, liturgical, historical-critical, philosophical, and mystical texts. There are extracts from poems, songs, and plays, as well as polemics, commentaries, manifestos, treatises, letters, novels, liturgies, and creeds. The full range of responses to Jesus are represented in texts from Eastern and Western Christianity, both Catholic and Protestant, and additionally Jewish, Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, and Zoroastrian texts. Spanning heterodoxy and radical thinking, this Reader presents an absorbing and many-sided picture of the wealth of responses to Jesus.

Whether you are completely new to John's Gospel or have read it many times before, Meeting God in John will help you see the Fourth Gospel with fresh eyes and gain a deeper understanding of its essential meaning and purpose.David Ford, one of the world's most widely respected theologians and author of Theology: A Very Short Introduction and The Gospel of John: A Theological Commentary, offers an accessible and absorbing introduction to the main message of John's Gospel, packed with compelling observations into the personality and impact of Jesus, both in the first century and today.Meeting God in John explores what the Gospel reveals about God through the person of Jesus Christ. Essential reading for anyone seeking a richer grasp of the gospel message, it will leave you with a renewed appreciation of and enthusiasm for John's writing, and the desire to return to it over and over again. Ford's straightforward and illuminating approach also makes it eminently helpful for new Christians just starting out on their faith journey.Each chapter includes questions for reflection or discussion, making Meeting God in John ideal for Bible study, whether individually or in small groups. With its focus on the Passion narrative, it also serves beautifully as a Lent devotional.Simple yet profound, this is an invitation to all who long to deepen their understanding of John's Gospel - and, through it, to meet the God revealed in Jesus Christ.

Wisdom is both a theme in scripture and desirable in biblical interpretation and theology. It should prove a fruitful focus for this volume, which engages with key issues and texts dealing with scripture and theology. The contributors look at how the Bible and theology have come together in the past - in Judaism, the early Church, the Middle Ages, early modernity and the 20th century. They question how current biblical scholarship is to be related to past insights and modern methods and debate how wisdom is to be related to faith and reason. They also discuss Jesus as "the wisdom of God".

Daniel W. Hardy was one of the foremost ecclesial theologians of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries in the English-speaking world. 'Wording a radiance' is a theology of the Spirit and of the Eucharistic foundations of the Church. It is also the last testament of a great ecclesial theologian, and the editors present his theology in a manner that honours its character as testament. They situate his theology in the context of the last year of his life, which included a spiritual pilgrimage to the Holy Land and his conscious effort to dictate a brief theology as his parting words to the Church and the academy.

This eagerly awaited book by David F. Ford makes a unique and important contribution to the debate about the Christian doctrine of salvation. Using the pivotal image of the face, Professor Ford offers a constructive and contemporary account of the self being transformed. He engages with three modern thinkers (Levinas, Jüngel and Ricoeur) in order to rethink and reimagine the meaning of self. Developing the concept of a worshipping self, he explores the dimensions of salvation through the lenses of scripture, worship practices, the life, death and resurrection of Christ, and the lives of contemporary saints. He uses different genres and traditions to show how the self flourishes through engagement with God, other people, and the responsibilities and joys of ordinary living. The result is a habitable theology of salvation immersed in Christian faith, thought and practice while also being deeply involved with modern life in a pluralist world.

This eagerly awaited book by David F. Ford makes a unique and important contribution to the debate about the Christian doctrine of salvation. Using the pivotal image of the face, Professor Ford offers a constructive and contemporary account of the self being transformed. He engages with three modern thinkers (Levinas, Jüngel and Ricoeur) in order to rethink and reimagine the meaning of self. Developing the concept of a worshipping self, he explores the dimensions of salvation through the lenses of scripture, worship practices, the life, death and resurrection of Christ, and the lives of contemporary saints. He uses different genres and traditions to show how the self flourishes through engagement with God, other people, and the responsibilities and joys of ordinary living. The result is a habitable theology of salvation immersed in Christian faith, thought and practice while also being deeply involved with modern life in a pluralist world.

What is Christian wisdom for living in the twenty-first century? Where is it to be found? How can it be learnt? In the midst of diverse religions and worldviews and the demands and complexities of our world, David Ford explores a Christian way of uniting love of wisdom with wisdom in love. Core elements are the 'discernment of cries', the love of God for God's sake, interpretation of scripture, and the shaping of desire in faith. Case studies deal with inter-faith wisdom among Jews, Christians and Muslims, universities as centres of wisdom as well as knowledge and know-how and the challenge of learning disabilities. Throughout, there is an attempt to do justice to the premodern, modern and postmodern while grappling with scripture, tradition and the cries of the world today. Ford opens up the rich resources of Christianity in engaging with the issues and urgencies of contemporary life.

What is Christian wisdom for living in the twenty-first century? Where is it to be found? How can it be learnt? In the midst of diverse religions and worldviews and the demands and complexities of our world, David Ford explores a Christian way of uniting love of wisdom with wisdom in love. Core elements are the 'discernment of cries', the love of God for God's sake, interpretation of scripture, and the shaping of desire in faith. Case studies deal with inter-faith wisdom among Jews, Christians and Muslims, universities as centres of wisdom as well as knowledge and know-how and the challenge of learning disabilities. Throughout, there is an attempt to do justice to the premodern, modern and postmodern while grappling with scripture, tradition and the cries of the world today. Ford opens up the rich resources of Christianity in engaging with the issues and urgencies of contemporary life.

In our culture of distraction it can be hard to focus on spiritual matters. Work, finances, and uncertain futures are just a few things that overwhelm us daily. Discover how to overcome and develop an everyday spirituality that will guide your actions and bring meaning to your hectic life. "Ford provides a way beyond distraction to joy and buoyancy."--Walter Brueggemann, Columbia Theological Seminary"Amidst the glut of books on the devotional life that seek to be relevant and are only contemporary, this book is already a classic on the 'spirituality of everyday life.' I could hardly put it down."--Ray Anderson, Fuller Theological Seminary"A wise book that concentrates on the principle aspects of our lives that we so often get wrong because we lack wisdom."--Stanley Hauerwas, Duke Divinity School"Offers far greater wealth than even several readings can probe."--Books & Culture"Profound and reflective . . . yet always concrete, and never dishonest or evasive. A jewel of the spiritual life in its everyday manifestations."--Nicholas Wolterstorff, Yale Divinity School"These reflections ought to be read by laity and clergy alike, for they offer the spiritual renewal we desperately need."--L. Gregory Jones, Duke University Divinity School"The Shape of Living is like a friend's invitation to a dinner at which you encounter some unexpected guests and hope for some life-shaping consequence. By all means, accept."--The Christian CenturyDavid F. Ford, Regius Professor of Divinity at Cambridge University, is the author and editor of many books, including Reading Texts, Seeking Wisdom

This book was first published in 2005. How will the study of theology and the religions in higher education be shaped in the coming century? This book offers several different perspectives on this field of study with suggestions for a future in which theology and religious studies are pursued together. There are examples of the interplay of theology and religious studies with reference to a range of topics: God, love, scripture, worship, argument, reconciliation, friendship and justice. The contributors practise different disciplines within the field, often in combination, covering theology, philosophy, history, phenomenology, literary studies, hermeneutics, politics, ethics and law. Their specialisms embrace Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Indian religions, with particular focus on the field in Europe, the US and South Africa. Recognizing the significance of the religions and of higher education, the book explores what best practice can be adopted to fulfil responsibilities towards academic disciplines, the religions and the societies of which they are part.

Interreligious Reading After Vatican II brings together for the first time leading scholars from within and outside the Catholic tradition to discuss and undertake interreligious reading in the light of Vatican II.  Focuses on Scriptural Reasoning and Comparative Theology, and considers the relationship between interreligious engagement and Receptive Ecumenism within the ChurchDetails key events in the history of forms of study across faith traditionsOffers a fresh analysis of the impact and on-going legacy of the Second Vatican CouncilTackles questions about scripture, doctrine, tradition, philosophy and ecumenism in connection with theories and practices of interreligious reading and reasoningInspires readers to think about how to engage with others within and beyond their own religious tradition

The Future of Christian Theology represents a personal manifesto from one of the world's leading theologians, exploring the ways Christian theology in the twenty-first century has been, and can now continue to be, both creative and wise.   Represents an outstanding and engaging account of the task of theology todayOffers an insightful description of what makes for discerning and creative theology.Written from the perspective of decades of experience, and in close dialogue with theologians of other faithsFeatures a strong interfaith and public theology dimension, and a contemporary portrait of the field from the insideA hopeful and illuminating search for wisdom and understanding in the increasingly complex religious and secular world of the twenty-first century.

The Future of Christian Theology represents a personal manifesto from one of the world's leading theologians, exploring the ways Christian theology in the twenty-first century has been, and can now continue to be, both creative and wise.   Represents an outstanding and engaging account of the task of theology todayOffers an insightful description of what makes for discerning and creative theology.Written from the perspective of decades of experience, and in close dialogue with theologians of other faithsFeatures a strong interfaith and public theology dimension, and a contemporary portrait of the field from the insideA hopeful and illuminating search for wisdom and understanding in the increasingly complex religious and secular world of the twenty-first century.

With this volume, a group of scholar-practitioners of Islam, Judaism and Christianity invite readers to share in their understanding of scriptural text study and disciplined reasoning. Grapples with questions ranging from the nature of scripture and revelation to the relevance of philosophies such as idealism, pragmatism and phenomenology. Offers a constructive alternative to modernity, going deep into the scriptures while also drawing critically on modern philosophies and methodologies. Shows how Muslim, Jewish and Christian believers can study, reason and work together in a way that does not compromise their religious integrity and respects others’ religious integrity. A timely publication, of interest to all those interested in interfaith dialogue or in the nature of scriptural study.

The Modern Theologians: An Introduction to Christian Theology Since 1918, 3rd EditionThis popular text has been updated to ensure that it continues to provide a current and comprehensive overview of the main Christian theologies of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Each chapter is written by a leading theologian and gives a clear picture of a particular movement, topic or individual.New and updated treatments of topics covered in earlier editions, with over half the chapters new to this edition or revised by new authors.New section singling out six classic theologians of the twentieth century.Expanded treatment of the natural sciences, gender, Roman Catholic theology since Vatican II, and African, Asian and Evangelical theologies.Completely new chapters on spirituality, pastoral theology, philosophical theology, postcolonial biblical interpretation, Pentecostal theology, Islam and Christian theology, Buddhism and Christian theology, and theology and film.As in previous editions, the text opens with a full introduction to modern theology.Epilogue discussing the present situation and prospects of Christian theology in the twenty-first century.The Modern Theologians ReaderThe Modern Theologians Reader is an outstanding selection of the key writings in modern theology, with each extract introduced and annotated to support student learning. A unique stand-alone text which can also be used alongside the highly successful textbook, The Modern TheologiansFeatures introductory notes and annotations with each extract to help students understand the relevance and importance of the readingIncludes selections from major 20th-century theologians and theological movements, and texts on Christian theology's relation to science, globalization, and other faiths such as Buddhism and Judaism

The Modern Theologians: An Introduction to Christian Theology Since 1918, 3rd EditionThis popular text has been updated to ensure that it continues to provide a current and comprehensive overview of the main Christian theologies of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Each chapter is written by a leading theologian and gives a clear picture of a particular movement, topic or individual.New and updated treatments of topics covered in earlier editions, with over half the chapters new to this edition or revised by new authors.New section singling out six classic theologians of the twentieth century.Expanded treatment of the natural sciences, gender, Roman Catholic theology since Vatican II, and African, Asian and Evangelical theologies.Completely new chapters on spirituality, pastoral theology, philosophical theology, postcolonial biblical interpretation, Pentecostal theology, Islam and Christian theology, Buddhism and Christian theology, and theology and film.As in previous editions, the text opens with a full introduction to modern theology.Epilogue discussing the present situation and prospects of Christian theology in the twenty-first century.The Modern Theologians ReaderThe Modern Theologians Reader is an outstanding selection of the key writings in modern theology, with each extract introduced and annotated to support student learning. A unique stand-alone text which can also be used alongside the highly successful textbook, The Modern TheologiansFeatures introductory notes and annotations with each extract to help students understand the relevance and importance of the readingIncludes selections from major 20th-century theologians and theological movements, and texts on Christian theology's relation to science, globalization, and other faiths such as Buddhism and Judaism

This is an innovative book about the shape theology takes in its varied interactions – religious and secular, local and global, historical and contemporary, academic and practical. An innovative book about the shape of theology in reaction to its relationship with the Church, with theologians, with other religions, and with the university Written by David Ford, recognized internationally as one of the most creative of contemporary theologians Considers how theology shapes other areas of life via its conversations in the public sphere and with non-faith communities Views theology as both a way of thinking and a way of living, and considers how this lived character cannot be entirely grasped through reason alone The first volume to bring together a complete and well-rounded account of theology’s interaction with all its conversation partners.

This is an innovative book about the shape theology takes in its varied interactions – religious and secular, local and global, historical and contemporary, academic and practical. An innovative book about the shape of theology in reaction to its relationship with the Church, with theologians, with other religions, and with the university Written by David Ford, recognized internationally as one of the most creative of contemporary theologians Considers how theology shapes other areas of life via its conversations in the public sphere and with non-faith communities Views theology as both a way of thinking and a way of living, and considers how this lived character cannot be entirely grasped through reason alone The first volume to bring together a complete and well-rounded account of theology’s interaction with all its conversation partners.

Two renowned theologians open up the reality of God's glory in this book, offering readers a dynamic foundation for glorifying God in the twenty-first century.Drawing from Christian spirituality, liturgy, poetry, hymns, iconography, seminal "glory" texts in the Bible, the Nicene Creed, and theologians throughout the ages who caught sight of the glory of God in diverse ways, this book explores the immensely rich and generative soteriological theme of glorification. It shows students how to integrate theology into the life of faith and demonstrates how the practices of Christian worship influence theological thinking. Metaphors, descriptions, evocations, concepts, narratives, and more highlight the amazing, abundant reality of glorification.This is the first book in the Soteriology and Doxology series. These introductory textbooks cover key topics in soteriology, providing substantive treatments of doctrine while pointing to the setting of theology in doxology. Series editors are Kent Eilers and Kyle C. Strobel.

John is a Gospel of abundant truth, life, and love. David Ford, one of the world's leading Christian theologians, invites readers into a fresh, profound encounter with Jesus through the Gospel of John in this comprehensive theological commentary. This commentary will appeal to a wide audience, including pastors, church leaders, and other readers interested in the intersection of theology and spirituality. It will also be of interest to professors and students doing research on John and the reception of the Gospel in Christian theology.

Reflections for Daily Prayer continues to be one of the most popular and highly valued daily Bible reading companions. Continuing its tradition of excellence, regular favourites and new contributors offer insightful, informed and inspiring reflections on the scripture readings of the day, based on the Common Worship lectionary for Morning Prayer. Isabelle Hamley, Principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge, is the guest contributor for Holy Week. For every day (excluding Sundays) of the 2026-27 Church year, there are full references and a quotation from the day’s set of Scripture readings, concise and challenging commentary, and a collect. Also included is a simple order for Morning and Night Prayer, and additional helps for nurturing a habit of regular daily prayer.

How can Christians become agents of reconciliation in a divided world and Church? Twelve Habits for Peacemakers brings together leading theologians and experienced peacebuilders to explore Christian Biblical Reasoning – a fresh way of reading Scripture that nurtures the habits essential for peace making.Miroslav Volf, David F. Ford, John Swinton, Tom Greggs, Maggi Dawn and practitioners from the Rose Castle Foundation explore twelve transformative habits – including Lament, Forgiveness, Hospitality, and Empathy – drawn from real-world reconciliation work. Designed for ministers, church leaders, and peacemakers at every level, they offer clear, real-life applications alongside theological depth.Blending academic insight with hands-on wisdom, Twelve Habits for Peacemakers is a vital resource for anyone seeking to bridge divides and live out the gospel of peace.

Micheal O'Siadhail is not only one of the most widely read contemporary Irish poets, but his poetry has also increasingly drawn the attention of critics and commentators. In this intriguing book some leading Irish, English and American literary scholars of his poetry come together with others who approach him and his work through biography, history, art, music, translation, religion and philosophy. Their essays are intended for whoever has enjoyed O'Siadhail's life-loving, intense yet accessible poems.An overall account is given of his life, his work and the reception of his poetry so far. There are close readings of some poems, analyses of his artistry in matching diverse content with both classical and innovative forms, and studies of recurrent themes such as love, death, language, music and the shifts of modern life. His rich intellectual and imaginative world of meaning is explored, and special attention is paid to early collections, to his tour de force on the Holocaust, and to Globe's meditations on history and vision in a time of rapid change. O'Siadhail's stature as an Irish and European poet is assessed, and a range of affinities with other poets - Donne, Rilke, Dante, Kavanagh - are traced. Yet the attempt to categorize O'Siadhail comes up against the real possibility that, according to one critic, 'it may be that he has done something rare, that he has created his own tradition'.

In an overwhelming world, how can our lives be shaped to their greatest potential?David F. Ford describes the ‘overwhelmings’ we face in the whirl of life today – the endless images and information that inundate us and pervade our lives. Examining the people and forces that influence us, the rhythm of work and leisure, and the intense experiences, both good and bad, that make up reality, Ford serves up practical wisdom for coping creatively with challenge and change.Above all, Ford helps us to discover a dynamic pattern that can respond to the ‘overwhelmings’ and shape our desires, relationships, responsibilities and celebrations. Here is a vision of genuine Christian life that can face both the living God and the best and worst of today’s world.