Sidewalks in the Kingdom: New Urbanism and the Christian Faith

by Eric O. Jacobsen, Eugene H. Peterson

Overview

Christians often talk about claiming our cities for Christ and the need to address urban concerns. But according to Eric Jacobsen, this discussion has remained far too abstract. Sidewalks in the Kingdom challenges Christians to gain an informed vision for the physical layout and structure of the city.

Jacobsen emphasizes the need to preserve the nourishing characteristics of traditional city life, including shared public spaces, thriving neighborhoods, and a well-supported local economy. He explains how urban settings create unexpected and natural opportunities to initiate friendship and share faith in Christ.

Helpful features include a glossary, a bibliography, and a description of New Urbanism. Pastors, city-dwellers, and those interested in urban ministry and development will be encouraged by Sidewalks in the Kingdom.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781587430572
Publisher:	Baker Publishing Group
Publication date:	05/01/2003
Series:	The Christian Practice of Everyday Life
Pages:	190
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.41(d)

About the Author

Eric O. Jacobsen is adjunct professor of theology and culture at Fuller Theological Seminary. He previously served as associate pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Missoula, Montana. Jacobsen is a member of the Congress for the New Urbanism.

Table of Contents

	Acknowledgments	7
	Foreword	9
	Introduction--A Trip to Bernice's	11
Part 1	Thinking about Our Cities	17
1.	Broken Promises: Sprawl and the American Experience	19
2.	From the Garden to Jerusalem	34
3.	Waiting for Jerusalem	46
4.	Learning to See Our Cities: A Theological Approach	63
Part 2	Markers of the City	75
5.	Public Spaces and Incarnational Ministry	77
6.	Mixed Use, Pedestrian Scale, and the Whole Person	86
7.	Beauty, Quality, and Other "Nonessentials"	99
8.	Local Economy and the Permanence of Place	116
9.	Critical Mass and Making Friends	128
10.	Strangers and Hospitality	138
	Conclusion--Seeking the Welfare of Your City	153
Appendix A	City Words--A Constructive Glossary	167
Appendix B	City Reading	174
Appendix C	Charter of the New Urbanism	180
	Notes	184