Konrad Raiser

Beyond the Modern Age

Ethics, Culture & Social Issues

“As a consequence of the process of globalization, the inner contradictions of modernity have become apparent. In particular, the affirmation that modernization inevitably leads to secularization is being questioned in view of the so-called 'return of religion.' People are beginning to critically review the basic assumptions of the modern worldview, looking for new perspectives of meaning in the highly confusing contemporary world. The new publication Beyond the Modern Age by Bob Goudzwaard and Craig G. Bartholomew offers a constructively critical approach to the economic, social, and environmental challenges facing the globalized society. Both authors are rooted in the 'reformational,' neo-Calvinist tradition of Christian social thinking initiated by Abraham Kuyper. The book grew out of a course for students that Bob Goudzwaard has taught for many years. It has retained the attractive character of an argument developed in dialogical partnership with students drawn from different parts of the world. The authors take the reader through an informed review of the historical origins of the modern worldview and the main efforts to critically adjust it in response to its inner paradoxes. Taking their cues from contemporary scholars like José Casanova, Philip Rieff, René Girard, and Lenn E. Goodman, they seek to move beyond the ideological constraints of the modern worldview by arguing for a biblically rooted perspective from 'outside' that opens up constructive ways ofthinking and acting while respecting the plurality of worldviews. The book can be recommended as an excellent textbook for courses in contemporary Christian social philosophy.”

Just Peace

Ethics, Culture & Social Issues

“This is a welcome contribution to the emerging ecumenical discussion about a fundamental reorientation of Christian peace ethics towards the vision of just peace. Drawing on the tradition of historic peace churches, it broadens the discourse by introducing challenging perspectives from different cultural and religious contexts as well as from other disciplines beyond theology and ethics. While it marks only the beginning of the debate, it succeeds in demonstrating its urgency.”

The Biblical Jubilee and the Struggle for Life

Ethics, Culture & Social Issues

“A very timely book! People are uncertain about the twenty-first century and are searching for new orientation. The biblical Sabbath and Jubilee tradition does provide essential directions for the process of personal, ecclesial and social transformation. Ross and Gloria Kinsler open up the richness of this tradition.”

Theological Literacy in the Twenty-First Century

“The issue of theological literacy, including reflection about criteria for theological education, is one of the central concerns in ecumenical discussion at the beginning of the twenty-first century. This volume offers significant challenges and perspectives that should be taken seriously in the search for a new way of being the church in the context of global interdependence and religious plurality.”

Witnessing for Peace

Ethics, Culture & Social Issues

“This Witness for Peace from Jerusalem is a voice that needs to be heard by all who are concerned about peace in the city and the land that are holy for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. It is an honest, moving, and deeply spiritual witness for nonviolence and dialogue as the only realistic way to reach a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. It comes from someone who was born and raised in Jerusalem's Old City, who has learned and is practicing the art of living together with neighbors of different faith traditions, and who now, as the Lutheran bishop in Jerusalem, seeks to be a living witness to the power of forgiveness rooted in God's infinite grace.”