This is a summary of recent books read by Martin Davie, compiling his evaluations and the commendations of others. In this edition:
Marriage, Scripture, and the Church: Theological Discernment on the Question of Same-Sex Union by Darrin Belousek
Probably the most important conservative contribution to the Christian debate about same-sex relationships since Gagnon’s The Bible and Homosexual Practice. From the perspective of a biblical view of marriage, it engages with Scripture, Christian tradition and contemporary scholarship on both sides of the debate, rightly emphasising that traditional teaching presents serious challenges to the behaviour of all Christians, not just to the same-sex attracted. Forget Living in Love and Faith – read this instead
The Genesis of Gender: A Christian Theory by Abigail Favale
Explores how the modern concept of gender as something separate from biological sex developed, from the perspective of Catholic Christianity. A profoundly important book bringing together personal experience, feminism and gender theory, and Christian theology in an astonishingly creative way, explaining what’s gone wrong in feminism and gender theory, but also suggesting a positive theological and pastoral response. Evangelicals may blanch at her Marian theology but she offers a deep Scriptural study and a clear orthodox restatement of the nature and importance of human sexual identity. Highly recommended.
Fight Valiantly – Contending for the faith against false teaching in the Church -Lee Gatiss (ed)
Intended to equip Christians in positions of leadership in the Church of England to contend for the apostolic faith in the face of false teaching in the Church. Considers the need to contend, what it looks like, real examples of contending and 8 interactive Bible studies on the topic. For ministers, those in training and Christians who want to understand the vital importance of the topic.
Living in Mercy and Grace by Lee Gatiss (ed)
Originally a series of talks, this short book contains six reflections by different authors on the challenges involved in Christian life and ministry. A stimulating collection of essays on the basis of the teaching of Scripture and the insights of psychology primarily aimed at those engaged in Christian ministry, but also applicable to lay Christians. A good resource for personal study or as a basis for group discussion in a church leadership team, a DEF group or a ministers’ fraternal.
The Case Against the Sexual Revolution: A New Guide to Sex in the 21st Century by Louise Perry
A critical review of the sexual revolution from a secular perspective. Christians will not agree with her worldview but they will certainly resonate with her conclusions. A good starting point for discussion with secular feminists and confused unbelievers that might lead to conversations about the goodness of God’s ways.
To read the full review click here.
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