Matthew L. Becker

A Theology of Religious Change

Theology

“David Zehnder performs a great service to theologians and social scientists by explaining how doctrines of salvation actually affect the real-life circumstances of people and their struggles with Christian faith. Here the age-old question of why some believe and others do not avoids getting mired in theological perplexities and speculations that take one well beyond the proper limits of theology. Instead, Zehnder brings clarity to discussions about conversion by examining the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to that process. This is an important study of the human side of religious experience that deserves a wide audience.”

In the Face of Death

History & Biography

“In the middle decades of the last century Helmut Thielicke was likely the most quoted German-Lutheran theologian in North-American Protestant churches, more so than Bonhoeffer or any of the other ‘big names.’ Translations of Thielicke’s best-selling sermons and other writings were regular fare for many American clergy and laity, while his academic work in systematic theology and ethics were routinely studied by U.S. seminarians and graduate students. Dr. Grassl here unveils in a masterful way those life experiences of Thielicke that had a profound impact on his thinking, preaching, and pastoral care. Dr. Grassl not only provides insights into Thielicke's biography—frequently on the basis of previously unexplored archival material—but he also helps the reader to understand more clearly the principal themes in Thielicke's complex theology. This is now the best introduction in English to this important theologian's life and work.”

The Bridal Banquet

Preaching & Worship

“This eminently readable book offers refreshing insights about the Lord’s Supper that Bob Schmidt has learned as a missionary in a broken world, often in settings where house churches and other small groups were not served by an ordained person, or where those assembled were ‘outsiders.’ The real-life examples he shares here about the ‘bridal banquet’ are illuminating. He dares to show alternative patterns of communion that enrich our understanding of Christ’s special feast.”