Process Theology: A Guide for the Perplexed

by Bruce G. Epperly

Overview

This is an introductory guide to Process Theology for undergraduates. As part of Contiuum's 'Guide for the Perplexed' series, this text provides an accessible introduction to process theology, aimed at nurturing the theological imagination of undergraduates, pastors and interested laypersons. It describes the major themes of process theology and relates them to the everyday lives and spiritual commitments of people today. In addition to addressing traditional theological issues, Epperly addresses cutting edge issues in theology and ethics such as pluralism and postmodernism, matters of life and death, science (technology and genetics), and emerging forms of Christianity. This text is designed for seminary and university classes as well as congregational study. It will help readers to overcome the obstacles created by the technical language often employed by process theologians. Continuum's Guides for the Perplexed are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that students and readers can find especially challenging - or indeed downright bewildering. Concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to grasp, these books explain and explore key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding material.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780567320094
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Publishing
Publication date:	03/24/2011
Series:	Guides for the Perplexed
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	192
File size:	597 KB

About the Author

Bruce Epperly is Professor of Practical Theology and Director of Continuing Education at Lancaster Theological Seminary, Pennsylvania, USA.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments
Chapter 1 - What is Process Theology and Why is It so Perplexing?
Chapter 2 - A Truly Personal God
Chapter 3 - Transforming Christology
Chapter 4 - The Spirit and the Dancing Trinity
Chapter 5 - The Human Adventure
Chapter 6 - Faith and Science in Creative Transformation
Chapter 7 - Ethics for a Small Planet
Chapter 8 - The Church in Creative Transformation
Chapter 9 - Survival After Death in a Pluralist Age
Chapter 10 - New Horizons for Process Theology/Bibliography

Editorial Reviews

'Process theology comes in many forms. Some technical philosophical forms confuse more than enlighten. Bruce Epperly offers his own form of process theology in accessible narrative and confessional prose. The anecdotes, case studies, and stories bring alive process perspectives on crucial issues of our time. This book should further establish and expand process theology's standing as a persuasive alternative for making sense of God and the many dimensions and questions of our existence.' -Thomas Jay Oord, Ph.D. Author of 'The Nature of Love: A Theology' (Chalice) and 'Defining Love: Philosophical, Scientific, and Theological Engagement' (Brazos)” —Thomas J. Oord

“'Unbelievable: Bruce Epperly really succeeds at communicating process theology in its full breadth and depth, in ways that will satisfy newcomers and advanced students alike. Yet he does it almost wholly without the use of technical terms! Epperly's writing flows beautifully. It's laced with personal examples and replete with its own Whiteheadian moments, such as "Reality is profoundly ecological" or "In each moment, we are artists of our experience" .... Perhaps the best in-depth introduction to process theology available for non-specialists.' - Philip Clayton, Ingraham Professor, Claremont School of Theology, USA” —Philip Clayton

“Given that process theology (PT) has earned a reputation for being one of the least accessible theological movements, Bruce Epperly does a good job in helping to clarify the main arguments and translating the vocabulary into something akin to everyday usage.” —The Church Times

“There is much to commend with this book... for a cogent, lucid, well-illustrated, grounded, passionate, comprehensive introduction to one of the most lively and influential schools of theological thought of the last fifty years, Epperly's book does its job very well.” —Regents Review

“This books is one of the latest instalments in the excellent 'Guide for the Perplexed' series.” —The Expository Times

“A major strength of this text is Epperly's demonstrated effort in grounding PT [Process Theology] in practical everyday experience. He provides narratives of people grappling with real life issues and the implications of applying a PT framework to those experiences…this is what sets the text apart from other introductory primers on PT. The book offers ten accessible chapters which, as a whole, offer a well-rounded overview of Christian PT.” —Hans Gustafson, University of St. Thomas, Catholic Books Review

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