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A survey of the development of the Paschal rites of the ancient Church, from apostolic times to the 4th century.Christian interpreters in all ages have sought a clue to the New Testament Book of Revelation. In this study, Massey H. Shepherd offers a new approach to the basic structure of the Book. He surveys the development of Paschal rites and customs of the ancient Church, from apostolic times to the end of the age of persecution, as a background and context for understanding the outline and basic theme of Revelation. Fresh perspectives are opened to students of New Testament and early Christian literature, the liturgy and piety of the primitive Church, and the origins of the Christian Year.

A classic title now republished, this reference work is devoted to matters of worship. It does not limit itself to any specific period, but covers all the Christian centuries. Nor is it devoted to one Church only, but attempts to be truly ecumenical.This lexicon contains over 800 entries, ranging from simple definitions to full-length articles tracing the history of the object or practice described. The entries selected are those that the student of liturgy is likely to encounter most frequently. Bibliographical references are given for the main items and a special feature where a liturgical document is concerned, is the listing of original texts and, when available, of translations together with critical studies if there are any directly bearing upon the subject. Cross-references are indicated by an asterisk.This book is an indispensable tool for all students of worship and indeed anyone interested in the history and practice of Christian liturgy.

A classic title now republished, this reference work is devoted to matters of worship. It does not limit itself to any specific period, but covers all the Christian centuries. Nor is it devoted to one Church only, but attempts to be truly ecumenical.This lexicon contains over 800 entries, ranging from simple definitions to full-length articles tracing the history of the object or practice described. The entries selected are those that the student of liturgy is likely to encounter most frequently. Bibliographical references are given for the main items and a special feature where a liturgical document is concerned, is the listing of original texts and, when available, of translations together with critical studies if there are any directly bearing upon the subject. Cross-references are indicated by an asterisk.This book is an indispensable tool for all students of worship and indeed anyone interested in the history and practice of Christian liturgy.

A comprehensive introductory study guide to the New Testament, presenting the student with the results of recent scholarship in a clear and fresh way.In this clear and accessible introductory text, the author supplies the reader with basic information about both the content and the historical background of the New Testament and shows the processes by which scholars seek to solve some of the chief literary problems of the Gospels. He offers a straightforward path through the unwieldy abundance of complex material, without distortion or over-simplification. He avoids technical discussions and critical debates, but shows the main problems to be considered in this type of study. The author does not emphasise novel theories, but presents a balanced account that represents the consensus of current New Testament scholarship. Long seen as one of the leading volumes of its kind, this enlarged and revised edition will provide lasting knowledge to all who seek a deepened understanding of the forces that forged the New Testament.

A comprehensive introductory study guide to the New Testament, presenting the student with the results of recent scholarship in a clear and fresh way.In this clear and accessible introductory text, the author supplies the reader with basic information about both the content and the historical background of the New Testament and shows the processes by which scholars seek to solve some of the chief literary problems of the Gospels. He offers a straightforward path through the unwieldy abundance of complex material, without distortion or over-simplification. He avoids technical discussions and critical debates, but shows the main problems to be considered in this type of study. The author does not emphasise novel theories, but presents a balanced account that represents the consensus of current New Testament scholarship. Long seen as one of the leading volumes of its kind, this enlarged and revised edition will provide lasting knowledge to all who seek a deepened understanding of the forces that forged the New Testament.

An essay on central sacrament from the perspective of the Reformed Tradition, viewing the Eucharist not only as a sign or symbol, but as Christ’s real presence.Newly republished, Von Allmen’s essay on the central sacrament of the Christian faith examines the truths enshrined in the Lord’s Supper from within the Reformed Tradition. He concludes that the Eucharist must be understood not only as a ‘sign’, ‘symbol’ or ‘memorial’, but as the very real presence of Christ.

An essay on central sacrament from the perspective of the Reformed Tradition, viewing the Eucharist not only as a sign or symbol, but as Christ’s real presence.Newly republished, Von Allmen’s essay on the central sacrament of the Christian faith examines the truths enshrined in the Lord’s Supper from within the Reformed Tradition. He concludes that the Eucharist must be understood not only as a ‘sign’, ‘symbol’ or ‘memorial’, but as the very real presence of Christ.

A penetrating study of the debate over baptism, tracing a path from New Testament theology to a modern ecumenical approach.Tracing the issues arising from the New Testament in the traditions of the churches, Wainwright provides an ecumenical conspectus of the continuous debate on Christian baptism. He surveys the positions of different churches on baptism and confirmation, and relates them to the New Testament treatment. He shows that the New Testament's apparent favouring of different views of the relation between grace and faith in baptism provides a basis for an ecumenical pattern of Christian initiation.

A penetrating study of the debate over baptism, tracing a path from New Testament theology to a modern ecumenical approach.Tracing the issues arising from the New Testament in the traditions of the churches, Wainwright provides an ecumenical conspectus of the continuous debate on Christian baptism. He surveys the positions of different churches on baptism and confirmation, and relates them to the New Testament treatment. He shows that the New Testament's apparent favouring of different views of the relation between grace and faith in baptism provides a basis for an ecumenical pattern of Christian initiation.

A rich and profound contribution to the debate on the position of modern Christianity opened up Kraemer's The Christian Message in a Non-Christian World. In Religion and the Christian Faith he deals with many of the criticisms of his position, and offers an apologia, at once luminous and massive, of the Christian religion as the revelation of God to Man and the faith for all mankind.There is a decisive Christian finality about Kraemer's writing, and his book is a significant contribution to the sharp discipline of faith and action under which the universal Christian community lives. All the way through his formidably marshalled arguments run the undertones of Christian involvement in a real, world - a world which, by his astonishing grasp of philosophy, Biblical theology and the claims of religion and religions, the Author brings alive to the reader.The reading of this formative book, with its strenuous demands on the reader's intelligence and Christian understanding, is a rewarding experience. Its significance for the Christian Church throughout the world is obvious, but it is also a monumental witness to the Christian religion for all those who ask not only for a faith 'once delivered' but a faith to believe in their own day and generation.

A rich and profound contribution to the debate on the position of the Christian faith in the modern world.A rich and profound contribution to the debate on the position of modern Christianity opened up Kraemer’s The Christian Message in a Non-Christian World. In Religion and the Christian Faith he deals with many of the criticisms of his position, and offers an apologia, at once luminous and massive, of the Christian religion as the revelation of God to Man and the faith for all mankind.There is a decisive Christian finality about Kraemer’s writing, and his book is a significant contribution to the sharp discipline of faith and action under which the universal Christian community lives. All the way through his formidably marshalled arguments run the undertones of Christian involvement in a real, world – a world which, by his astonishing grasp of philosophy, Biblical theology and the claims of religion and religions, the Author brings alive to the reader.The reading of this formative book, with its strenuous demands on the reader’s intelligence and Christian understanding, is a rewarding experience. Its significance for the Christian Church throughout the world is obvious, but it is also a monumental witness to the Christian religion for all those who ask not only for a faith ‘once delivered’ but a faith to believe in their own day and generation.

The first comparative account of West African beliefs regarding the soul, and the spiritual powers of man and animals.This book is a groundbreaking comparative study of African religion and psychology, dealing with the concept of the soul in West African belief. Based on personal research supported by anthropological study, this examination of West African thought on the soul, and spiritual powers of man and animals, concentrates predominantly on the western coast and hinterland, from the Ivory Coast to Eastern Nigeria.This is a comprehensive and interesting selection of the beliefs that have moulded West African psychology, including perceptions of future lives and reincarnation, to physical and spiritual metamorphoses. The essence of the soul is also examined, especially with regard to hysterical possession and 'soul-eating' by witches. The supernatural is also addressed, as are deep beliefs in ghosts and the interpretation of dreams.This subject is not only deeply absorbing, but is also one of practical importance to all those who are interested, personally and professionally, in religion, as well as to any others whose work leads them into personal relationships with West African people.

The first comparative account of West African beliefs regarding the soul, and the spiritual powers of man and animals.This book is a groundbreaking comparative study of African religion and psychology, dealing with the concept of the soul in West African belief. Based on personal research supported by anthropological study, this examination of West African thought on the soul, and spiritual powers of man and animals, concentrates predominantly on the western coast and hinterland, from the Ivory Coast to Eastern Nigeria.This is a comprehensive and interesting selection of the beliefs that have moulded West African psychology, including perceptions of future lives and reincarnation, to physical and spiritual metamorphoses. The essence of the soul is also examined, especially with regard to hysterical possession and ‘soul-eating’ by witches. The supernatural is also addressed, as are deep beliefs in ghosts and the interpretation of dreams.This subject is not only deeply absorbing, but is also one of practical importance to all those who are interested, personally and professionally, in religion, as well as to any others whose work leads them into personal relationships with West African people.

A pioneering anthropological study of the Santal people of India, who live in the area north-east of the mouth of the Ganges."This study represents an attempt to provide the kind of book that I wish could have been placed in my hands when I first began to work amongst the Santals," says the author in his Preface. Based on material gathered during his 11-year residence amongst the Santal people, this is a pioneering anthropological study of one of the largest tribal peoples of India, whose homeland is based around the area north east of the Ganges. A proud and self reliant people who once rioted against the corruption of British tax officials in colonial India, they have retained their own language and independent religion.Culshaw explores every aspect of their culture, from their perception of themselves, and their interaction with their neighbours, to the intricacies of their art, both verbal and visual. The inclusion of diagrams of Santal instruments, and translations of their poetry and song, combined with the careful descriptions of the importance of both ceremonial and celebratory dance, animates the description of these people and accentuates the diversity and richness of their beliefs.The reader is taken on a journey of discovery, through the most important episodes in life, including birth, marriage and death, to encourage understanding of the customs and practices of these dignified people. Elements of everyday life, such as the manner in which the tribe is structured, and the impact of natural events that are so important to an agricultural community, are contrasted with their belief system, myths, legends and religion.Covering their history, their relationships with other ethnic groups, their social organisation and daily lives, their customs and religious beliefs, their art and folklore, and the impact of the Christian missions on their way of life, this wide-ranging account provides an excellent introduction to a fascinating culture, and deserves to be acknowledged as one of the most important books on this subject.Includes a glossary of Santali words and kinship terms.

A pioneering anthropological study of the Santal people of India, who live in the area north-east of the mouth of the Ganges."This study represents an attempt to provide the kind of book that I wish could have been placed in my hands when I first began to work amongst the Santals," says the author in his Preface. Based on material gathered during his 11-year residence amongst the Santal people, this is a pioneering anthropological study of one of the largest tribal peoples of India, whose homeland is based around the area north east of the Ganges. A proud and self reliant people who once rioted against the corruption of British tax officials in colonial India, they have retained their own language and independent religion.Culshaw explores every aspect of their culture, from their perception of themselves, and their interaction with their neighbours, to the intricacies of their art, both verbal and visual. The inclusion of diagrams of Santal instruments, and translations of their poetry and song, combined with the careful descriptions of the importance of both ceremonial and celebratory dance, animates the description of these people and accentuates the diversity and richness of their beliefs.The reader is taken on a journey of discovery, through the most important episodes in life, including birth, marriage and death, to encourage understanding of the customs and practices of these dignified people. Elements of everyday life, such as the manner in which the tribe is structured, and the impact of natural events that are so important to an agricultural community, are contrasted with their belief system, myths, legends and religion.Covering their history, their relationships with other ethnic groups, their social organisation and daily lives, their customs and religious beliefs, their art and folklore, and the impact of the Christian missions on their way of life, this wide-ranging account provides an excellent introduction to a fascinating culture, and deserves to be acknowledged as one of the most important books on this subject.Includes a glossary of Santali words and kinship terms.

A comparative study of the way in which two great theologians, one medieval and one modern, view the Christian doctrine of Revelation.A comparative study of the way in which two great theologians - one medieval and one modern - view the Christian doctrine of Revelation. Karl Barth's debt to, and differences from, the theology of Saint Thomas Aquinas are fundamental to his theological development, and Fairweather's discussion of their views of revelation is an important contribution to the history of theology.Fairweather examines the definition of revelation, questioning whether its essence truly lies in the belief that it is the direct speech of God to man. He attempts to discover whether divinity in the form of revelation can coexist with the corruption intrinsic in the human mind, or whether one negates the other. To answer these philosophical and theological problems, Fairweather has employed the beliefs and teachings of the famous medieval scholar, Thomas Aquinas, and the mid-twentieth century theologian, Karl Barth. Aquinas expounded the theory that whilst reason is bequeathed by God and is essential to humanity, it is not sufficient to guide men towards the ultimate truth; for this they need revelation. Although reason and revelation are distinct, they are not mutually exclusive, and man without logic would be unable to grasp fully the enormity of revelation.By contrast, Fairweather employs the arguments of Karl Barth, whose debt to, and differences from, the theology of Saint Thomas Aquinas are fundamental to his theological development. Although his beliefs have recently come under criticism for being too negative in their estimate of mankind and its powers of reason, Barth's was an inspiration for the renaissance that took place in theology from about 1920 to 1950. Regarding revelation, Barth believed that it was imparted by God in a similar manner to salvation, and that the subjective responses of man were inconsequential when compared with the enormity of God's design.

A study of the issues raised by the Old Testament for Christian faith and the Church, and a survey of attitude to the Old Testament since the Reformation.The Old Testament raises far-reaching issues for the Christian faith. In his valuable historical study Kraeling surveys Christian attitudes to the Old Testament since the Reformation. He offers with scholarly precision and thoroughness an overview of the arguments and attitudes revealed in the massive debates on the Old Testament which have wracked Christendom during the last five centuries. He shows the reactions of Christian scholars to the Old Testament and how these affected the attitude of the Church. This book offers the general reader as well as the Bible student an understanding of the role of the Old Testament in the life of the Church and in Biblical scholarship. It also reveals the profound impact of the Old Testament on the understanding of the New.

A study of the meeting of Christianity and non-Christian religions and the religious dialogue that emerges from the clash of cultures between East and West.The meeting of Christianity and the non-Christian religions, the impact of East on West, and West on East, the clash of cultures and the movement of divine and human forces that are changing the pattern of man's life, form the basis of Kraemer's magisterial book.He deals historically with the world situation as he sees it because history determines the mood in which East and West approach this 'coming dialogue'. In a series of masterly chapters Kraemer surveys the position of the world's religions deeply enmeshed in socio-cultural systems that create both barriers to change but impetus towards evolution. The dialogue with the 'grand, elusive, Eastern systems of humanist thinking' demands searching thought, fundamental re-adjustment of methods and readiness to find fresh points of contact. It will, however, vindicate the personal conception of the living God as manifest in Jesus Christ. The 'key word of Oriental philosophies is Harmony, glossing over the glaring disharmonies of man's life.'This is, the heart of the dialogue that Kraemer discusses backed by his vast experience and learning. Kraemer provides a formative and fundamental tool for Christians and all who are aspire to an intelligent and penetrative understanding of the religious and cultural life of the world.

A study of the meeting of Christianity and non-Christian religions and the religious dialogue that emerges from the clash of cultures between East and West.The meeting of Christianity and the non-Christian religions, the impact of East on West, and West on East, the clash of cultures and the movement of divine and human forces that are changing the pattern of man's life, form the basis of Kraemer's magisterial book.He deals historically with the world situation as he sees it because history determines the mood in which East and West approach this 'coming dialogue'. In a series of masterly chapters Kraemer surveys the position of the world's religions deeply enmeshed in socio-cultural systems that create both barriers to change but impetus towards evolution. The dialogue with the 'grand, elusive, Eastern systems of humanist thinking' demands searching thought, fundamental re-adjustment of methods and readiness to find fresh points of contact. It will, however, vindicate the personal conception of the living God as manifest in Jesus Christ. The 'key word of Oriental philosophies is Harmony, glossing over the glaring disharmonies of man's life.'This is, the heart of the dialogue that Kraemer discusses backed by his vast experience and learning. Kraemer provides a formative and fundamental tool for Christians and all who are aspire to an intelligent and penetrative understanding of the religious and cultural life of the world.

A study of the way in which the Old Testament is viewed in the developing churches of the Third World.“Reading the Old Testament is like eating a large crab: it turns out to be mostly shell, with very little meat on it,” said a Chinese pastor. This is one of the many challenging criticisms of the Old Testament in African and Asian churches.This book is a study of the way in which the Old Testament is viewed in the developing churches of the Third World, showing how the experience by which Israel was made ready for Jesus is applicable in the mission field.The author examines the perception and use of the Old Testament by missionaries and indigenous populations in Africa and Asia, and the way in which the pagan background to the Old Testament was perceived. He draws conclusions, particularly relevant to India and China.

A study of the way in which the Old Testament is viewed in the developing churches of the Third World.“Reading the Old Testament is like eating a large crab: it turns out to be mostly shell, with very little meat on it,” said a Chinese pastor. This is one of the many challenging criticisms of the Old Testament in African and Asian churches.This book is a study of the way in which the Old Testament is viewed in the developing churches of the Third World, showing how the experience by which Israel was made ready for Jesus is applicable in the mission field.The author examines the perception and use of the Old Testament by missionaries and indigenous populations in Africa and Asia, and the way in which the pagan background to the Old Testament was perceived. He draws conclusions, particularly relevant to India and China.

A leading British sinologist explains traditional Chinese monarchy, religion, worship, ritual, sacrifices, customs, and all aspects of early Chinese culture.This book is a close examination of Chinese traditions concerning the ancient Chinese institution known as the Ming T'ang, rendered in the title as the "Hall of Light", and the sacrificial rituals connected with it. Soothill does not offer a mere summary of the Chinese accounts of the Ming T'ang but an interpretation of those in the light of comparative anthropology and of the history of ancient astronomy.This is the culmination of the life-long study and research on China of a leading British sinologist, The Hall of Light illuminates traditional Chinese ideas about monarchy, religion, worship, ritual, sacrifices, customs, and all aspects of early Chinese culture, which have influenced the thought and behaviour of the Chinese for well over two millennia. This is a study that will be of value to sinologues, anthropologists, and students of comparative astronomy and religion, as well as anyone with an interest in Chinese tradition and thought.

A study of the role of miracles in the Bible and of the way in which changing concepts of faith and of revelation have altered the understanding of the miraculous.

A study of the role of miracles in the Bible and of how changing concepts of faith and of revelation have altered the understanding of the miraculous.An important analysis of the theological views on miracle and revelation in the period from the disintegration of the medieval worldview to the twentieth century. The author discusses the authenticity of revelation, its origins, and its importance throughout this period. He discusses the criticisms levied at revelation in a world dominated by scientific study and logic, and traces the developments and progress of the arguments of its adherents.The author illuminates the theories of the English Deists and their development of modern rationalism, which was to be championed during the Restoration when cynical opinion called for Christianity to be ‘reasonable’ with plain theological arguments. In response, the men behind the Scientific Renaissance argued that the structure of nature as they now perceived it only supported evidence of a divine being, which injected natural theology with a new lease of life.Lawton establishes the conflict between science and religion early on in this book. He explores the profound effect that these arguments had on the perception of revelation, miracles, and other aspects of Christianity, which relied heavily on faith and were also reappraised unfavourably during this period. He also demonstrates that with regard to life, and revelation in particular, it is a spiritual, not logical response, which is ultimately of value. This book is thoughtfully constructed, and will appeal to scientists and theologians alike, in addition to anyone with an interest in Christian debate.

Studies in the relationship between spirit and tradition in the bible, combining the insights of Orthodox theology with Western biblical scholarship.How deeply is new revelation rooted in and bound by old revelation, and how far does the old determine or contain the newness of the new? How does the new grow old, how is the old renewed, and what is the pattern – if any – of this process? In this study of the similarities and, equally important, the differences between older and more novel revelation in the Bible, Englezakis analyses these questions and indicates some of the ways in which answers may be found.A wide-ranging study which combines much original thought and sound scholarship with a deep spirituality, New and Old in God’s Revelation reflects one of the rare encounters of western Biblical scholarship with eastern Christianity.

An important study in the strategy of Christian evangelism as developed by two major figures, incorporating biographical studies of both its subjects.A two-volume study in the strategy of Christian evangelism as developed by two of its greatest exponents, set in the framework of biographical studies. Volume I covers the life and thought of Blaise Pascal, while Volume II covers the life and thought of Søren Kierkegaard, each volume standing in their own right as scholarly contributions to the literature of their respective subjects.Although far separated in time and tradition, Pascal and Kierkegaard both insisted that self-complacent humanity needs first to be disturbed, and then comforted, by the Gospel.Most of the book is occupied by a thorough review of the lives and works of the two men, in such a way as to ring out their significant place in the spiritual history of modern Europe. But the author's purpose throughout is not merely biographical. He goes on to compare the conception and execution of their evangelistic tasks in a way which brings out the remarkable consensus between them; and in an epilogue he draws conclusions relating this historical study to the tasks and methods of modern evangelism.

An important study in the strategy of Christian evangelism as developed by two major figures, incorporating biographical studies of both its subjects.A two-volume study in the strategy of Christian evangelism as developed by two of its greatest exponents, set in the framework of biographical studies. Volume I covers the life and thought of Blaise Pascal, while Volume II covers the life and thought of Søren Kierkegaard, each volume standing in their own right as scholarly contributions to the literature of their respective subjects.Although far separated in time and tradition, Pascal and Kierkegaard both insisted that self-complacent humanity needs first to be disturbed, and then comforted, by the Gospel.Most of the book is occupied by a thorough review of the lives and works of the two men, in such a way as to ring out their significant place in the spiritual history of modern Europe. But the author's purpose throughout is not merely biographical. He goes on to compare the conception and execution of their evangelistic tasks in a way which brings out the remarkable consensus between them; and in an epilogue he draws conclusions relating this historical study to the tasks and methods of modern evangelism.

two-volume study in the strategy of Christian evangelism as developed by two of its greatest exponents, set in the framework of biographical studies. Volume I covers the life and thought of Blaise Pascal, while Volume II covers the life and thought of Sen Kierkegaard, each volume standing in their own right as scholarly contributions to the literature of their respective subjects.Although far separated in time and tradition, Pascal and Kierkegaard both insisted that self-complacent humanity needs first to be disturbed, and then comforted, by the Gospel.Most of the book is occupied by a thorough review of the lives and works of the two men, in such a way as to ring out their significant place in the spiritual history of modern Europe. But the author's purpose throughout is not merely biographical. He goes on to compare the conception and execution of their evangelistic tasks in a way which brings out the remarkable consensus between them; and in an epilogue he draws conclusions relating this historical study to the tasks and methods of modern evangelism.

A two-volume study in the strategy of Christian evangelism as developed by two of its greatest exponents, set in the framework of biographical studies. Volume I covers the life and thought of Blaise Pascal, while Volume II covers the life and thought of Sen Kierkegaard, each volume standing in their own right as scholarly contributions to the literature of their respective subjects.Although far separated in time and tradition, Pascal and Kierkegaard both insisted that self-complacent humanity needs first to be disturbed, and then comforted, by the Gospel.Most of the book is occupied by a thorough review of the lives and works of the two men, in such a way as to ring out their significant place in the spiritual history of modern Europe. But the author's purpose throughout is not merely biographical. He goes on to compare the conception and execution of their evangelistic tasks in a way which brings out the remarkable consensus between them; and in an epilogue he draws conclusions relating this historical study to the tasks and methods of modern evangelism.