The Renewal of Trinitarian Theology: Themes, Patterns & Explorations
"It has often been said that the doctrine of the Holy Trinity is bettercaughtthantaught.In step with that sentiment, and in the 'spirit' of the late Catherine LaCugna, Rod Leupp shares LaCugna's conviction that 'the doctrine of the Trinity is in fact the most practical of all doctrines,' and thus sets out to explore why the recent renewal of trinitarian theology is underway. At this point of query, Rod enters into a rich and probing conversation with some of the most prominent theologians--Karl Barth, Jürgen Moltmann, Karl Rahner, Paul Fiddes, Paul Molnar, Dorothy Sayers, Wolfhart Pannenberg, Robert Jenson, Thomas Torrance, Eberhard Jüngel, Christoph Schwöbel, Elie Wiesel, et al.--and investigates with them salient patterns and themes that are at the very heart and mystery of the triune God. While there are many discernible insights and reasons for the resurgence of interest in trinitarian theology that are examined in this book, the most ignored reason that is brilliantly explored by Rod Leupp is this: the triune God of Scriptures, who is 'for us and our salvation,' is the triune God who 'suffers with us.' It is in this mystery of God's suffering where some of Rod's deepest and most personal insight into the mystery and wisdom of trinitarian reflection emerges. This book will not only familiarize one with the landscape of trinitarian theology, but it will also draw one deeply into the life of the triune God who shares our life by suffering right alongside us, enabling us to 'truly' know God as Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and thus come to know the greatest mystery of the Trinity: God is love." (K. Steve McCormick, Professor of Historical Theology and William M. Greathouse Chair for Wesleyan-Holiness Theology, Nazarene Theological Seminary)"In this probing and wide-ranging work, Roderick T. Leupp explores the subtleties of trinitarian theology and its significance for Christian thought and existence.The Renewal of Trinitarian Theologyis a welcome contribution to the growing body of literature on the trinitarian renaissance, and witnesses to the fact that the triune God is not a philosophical problem to solve but the church's life-giving hope." (Paul Louis Metzger, Professor of Christian Theology and Theology of Culture, Multnomah Biblical Seminary)"Leupp has crafted an accessible and engaging introduction to the dramatic renewal of theological interest in the doctrine of the Trinity over the last half-century. Newcomers will be ushered into the ongoing discussion, while seasoned participants will benefit from the connections he draws." (Randy L. Maddox, Professor of Theology and Wesleyan Studies, Duke Divinity School)