Reinhold Niebuhr

by Robin W. Lovin

Abingdon Pillars of Theology is a series for the college and seminary classroom designed to help students grasp the basic and necessary facts, influence, and significance of major theologians. Written by major scholars, these books will outline the context, methodology, organizing principles, primary contributions, and major writings of people who have shaped theology as we know it today.Reinhold Niebuhr understood the tensions and complexities of the Christian Life. His approach became to theology became known as "Christian realism." Through his life and work we can see the importance of paying attention to what is really happening and the witness we can make when we look at events with a wisdom shaped by a biblical understanding of history and human nature. An excerpt from the Circuit Rider "In the face of recession and a troubled economy, global warming and environmental peril, war and the AIDS pandemic, contemporary Christians would be well served to ponder again the work and witness of Reinhold Niebuhr. His work urges Christians and the church to define and claim our voice in the public arena. Faithful and prophetic witness rooted and grounded in true Christian hope are needed now more than ever. We are grateful to Prof. Lovin for this important contribution to the life of thoughtful faith and faithful living." (Click here to read the entire review.)

Genres: Theology

104 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2007

Reviews

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and concise read about Niebuhr's theology. His influence was strong during a difficult time in our country's history--that of World War II and the beginning of the Cold War. His theology would have been good to hear in yet another critical time on our country's history of terrorism and "the war on terror." In my opinion, Niebuhr would most certainly have challenged the idea that questioning the government is unpatriotic. Theologically, he stood for the fact that no government is beyond reproach. His Christian realism is a breath of fresh air in a theological world that often sees things as either black or white and does not often recognize the gray.

[Zach Waldis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not bad for so brief a book, but I think you'd be better off just reading one of his books...