B. A. Gerrish Bücher

Although Friedrich Schleiermacher (1768-1834) is commonly regarded as "the father of modern theology," many contemporary Christians think of him only as a difficult and outmoded German theologian. With this work, B.A. Gerrish offers a fresh view of Schleiermacher that breaks through the stereotypes and places Schleiermacher's work as a theologian into a broader context. Gerrish examines the elements of Schleiermacher's twofold theology - a specifically "Christian" relationship with Christ and a universally human consciousness of God - in the hope that this view of Schleiermacher's theological enterprise will lead contemporary Christians to reappraise him as a church theologian in the legitimate succession of Luther and Calvin.

Exploring the journey of Christian life, B. A. Gerrish delves into profound themes like God, faith, sin, evil, and forgiveness. His sermons are both theologically rich and psychologically insightful, addressing contemporary questions while illustrating the process of faith development. Through this exploration, Gerrish invites readers to reflect on their spiritual journeys amidst life's challenges and complexities.

The book presents five insightful essays by B. A. Gerrish that challenge the notion of a complete break from Reformation heritage in nineteenth-century liberal Protestantism. Gerrish argues that key figures of this era sought to evolve traditional doctrines while maintaining loyalty to their roots, advocating for development instead of outright rejection or mere repetition. Through elegant writing, the author explores the creative interplay between tradition and innovation within Protestant thought during this pivotal century.

This book is the first major study of Calvin's doctrine of the Lord's Supper in twenty-five years and the first attempt to show the eucharistic shape of Calvin's entire theology. The core of Calvin's doctrine of the Eucharist is the analogy of "feeding" on Christ, the Bread of Life. This analogy, argues Gerrish, links Calvin's thoughts to the "Holy Banquet" with the rest of his theology. The systematic character of Calvin's theology rests in part on his consistent understanding of God as father and fountain of good and his conception of the gospel as the message of free adoption. The father's liberality in feeding his children and their answering gratitude (or lack of it) is a thread that runs through Calvin's entire summary of piety; creation, the work of Christ, baptism, and the Lord's Supper.

The book emphasizes the role of dogmatic theology in critically interpreting and transmitting Christian heritage. B. A. Gerrish argues that theologians must evaluate traditional beliefs in light of contemporary contexts and evolving conditions, ensuring that the faith remains relevant and meaningful. This approach highlights the dynamic relationship between enduring doctrines and the challenges of modernity, advocating for a thoughtful engagement with both tradition and innovation within the Christian faith.