Embodying Forgiveness: A Theological Analysis
Anglican Theological Reivew"Lucidly written, catholic in its sensibilities, capacious in its sources, it offers a considerable advance for theological-ethical reflection. . . It is difficult to know where to begin to praise this book."Calvin Theological Journal"This volume is both a thought-provoking challenge to the church's current cultural captivity to what Bonhoeffer called 'cheap grace,' and a rich source of biblically sensitive material for preaching. Heartily recommended for pastors and other interested cultural theologians."Christianity Today"Thoughtful and wide-ranging book. . . Altogether, this is a highly intelligent, theologically instructive, and deeply reflective piece of work."Church"This book offers theology that is reflective as well as practical and writing that is clear, sometimes even stirring, despite the complexity of the author's thought."Commonweal"This is an imaginative and provocative essay. Jones's argument moves between theological claims which are relatively abstract and narratives of particular incidents which are compellingly concrete."First Things"A bracing polemic against and constructive alternative to 'the therapeutic society.' . . . In this analysis, there is nothing weak or sentimental about forgiveness. Forgiveness is hard work -- Jones calls it a craft -- to which all Christians are called and from which our society has much to learn."Interpretation"This book is more theologically sophisticated and pastorally sensitive than any other book on forgiveness of which I am aware. It is must reading for any pastor, preacher, or spiritual director."Librarians World"Libraries in churches that have thoughtful, intellectual members may want to consider this excellent work."Modern Theology"In this pioneering and creative book, Gregory Jones explores a central Christian doctrine as a public truth, as something to be practised by Christians and embodied in the Church. . . This is doctrinal theology at its relevant best. Jones develops his argument imaginatively with much effective use of narrative, which also serves to earth the discussion in real situations. . . immensely readable and often profound, this book suggests a fresh and challenging way of doing Christian theology. It should be widely read."New Theology Review"Any doubts that L. Gregory Jones is a significant voice in Christian theology today are dispelled by his most recent book,Embodying Forgiveness: A Theological Analysis. The core thesis of this remarkable work is that for Christians forgiveness involves much more than a single gesture or even a repentant spirit. . . Jones has written a masterpiece that is compelling and challenging, but also full of hope because his aim is to remind us that with a God who 'makes all things new,' no situation, however destructive, and no past, however painful, need ever control us. There is no better book than this on a subject that strikes at the heart of life. Beautifully written, carefully argued, and refreshingly substantive,Embodying Forgivenessis destined to be a classic."Pro Ecclesia"A bold but careful analysis of forgiveness and its centrality within the contexts of Christian theology and practice. . . Jones offers a powerful challenge as much to the practices as to the understandings of today's church. . . A must read for every Christian theologian and pastor, though many others will find it richly rewarding as well."Religious Studies Review"This important book seeks to restore forgiveness as a central category for Christian theology and ethics. . . Though primarily a scholarly work, the numerous allusions to scripture and contemporary biography and literature enrich the argument and enhance its accessibility to non-specialists, including upper level college students."Reviews in Religion & Theology (U.K.)"Extremely readable and tightly argued. . . One of the greatest successes of the book is its use of the resources of core Christian themes in arguing about the everyday practice of Christian life. . . Extremely readable and suggestive . . . an extremely important contribution to current theological writing."