153 - Responsible Faith: Christian Theology in the Light of Twentieth-Century Questions

Responsible Faith: Christian Theology in the Light of Twentieth-Century Questions

By Hans Schwarz

Minneapolis, Augsburg Publishing House, 1986. 448 Pp. $23.95

The subtitle well expresses the intention of this work: namely, to present a summary of the essential doctrines of the Christian faith in dialogue with some questions raised by modern thought and society. The book is written in an easy and engaging style, which would make it accessible to the well-educated lay person. But the extent to which the author rehearses the history of certain doctrinal developments (notably certain christological and sacramental controversies) suggests that this is primarily a work for church professionals with background in the material covered.

Schwarz addresses the Christian tradition as a Lutheran and relies heavily on the works of Martin Luther for the elaboration of specific points of doctrine. But his development shows considerable familiarity with Karl Barth, Karl Rahner, and Teilhard de Chardin, even though these are sometimes used as foils for the exposition of a basically Lutheran perspective. In terms of modern questions, Schwarz recognizes problems presented both by science and technology as well as by the realities of political oppression and poverty. His main goal, however, is to rehearse traditional doctrines in the light of these "questions" rather than to re-construct Christian doctrine in their light.

Cynthia M. Campbell, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Austin, Texas.