Theological Negotiations: Proposals in Soteriology and Anthropology - Paperback

by Douglas Farrow (Author)

One of today's leading theologians tackles some of the most significant themes in contemporary theology. Douglas Farrow explores key theological loci such as nature and grace and justification and sanctification; introduces theological giants such as Anselm, Aquinas, Luther, and Barth; and examines contemporary questions about sacraments and unity. Throughout his explorations, Farrow invites readers to consider how to negotiate controversy in Christian theology, especially between Catholics and Protestants, arguing that theology does its best work at the intersection of topics in dispute.

Back Jacket

Farrow offers a panoramic view of the crisis points in theology, combined with unpicking a number of long-standing theological knots. He is at home in the worlds of both Protestant and Catholic theology, and he brings the two together with recommendations for an irenic concordat. Farrow's style is engaging; the essays could be appreciated for their literary qualities alone, quite apart from the theological insights they contain.
--Tracey Rowland, John Paul II Chair of Theology, University of Notre Dame Australia

"This book will challenge Catholics and Protestants alike, for Farrow critically dissects some of the major issues that have divided and harassed them for five centuries. His knowledge of both traditions along with some of their major thinkers is impressive. For Farrow, being true to Scripture and right reason is essential to theology. Anyone serious about negotiating the philosophical and doctrinal complexities of ecumenical theology on those terms will find in Farrow a veteran envoy."
--Thomas G. Weinandy, OFMCap

"All of the qualities we have come to expect of Farrow's thought--precision, incisiveness, and mastery--are on full display in this series of compelling essays. Writing with the verve and vigor that are his hallmarks, Farrow mines and unhesitatingly challenges the best of the theological tradition--Irenaeus, Anselm, Aquinas, Luther, and Barth--shedding fresh light on crucial and seemingly intractable issues. Importantly, he accomplishes this with ecumenical concerns always in sight. Theological Negotiations is systematic theology at its finest."
--Thomas G. Guarino, Seton Hall University; cochairman, Evangelicals and Catholics Together

"Farrow's theology is robust and, like the gospel, ever ancient and yet ever new. It is also uncompromisingly biblical, catholic, and ecumenical. Farrow engages the dialectic of nature and grace as he surveys a wide range of fields: soteriology, sacraments, anthropology, and ecclesiology, among others. It is clear that what he calls the 'Pax Thomistica' is secure for the next generation and beyond. This is an important book."
--Scott Hahn, Franciscan University of Steubenville

"Farrow is profoundly Catholic, while ecumenically sensitive. He is deeply learned and utterly challenging in these essays on soteriology and anthropology. He refuses to accept easy answers for anything. He draws from the tradition to think through matters most rigorously and originally."
--Gavin D'Costa, University of Bristol

Author Biography

Douglas Farrow (PhD, King's College London) is professor of theology and Christian thought at McGill University in Montreal, Quebec. He is also the project director for Pluralism, Religion, and Public Policy at McGill and has authored several books, including Ascension and Ecclesia, Ascension Theology, and Desiring a Better Country.