T&T Clark Pannenberg: A Guide for the Perplexed (Guides for the Perplexed)

Wolfhart Pannenberg is one of the most challenging contemporary theologians for students to study. This "Guide for the Perplexed", explains his school of thought and overall ideas in a comprehensive and accessible form. Wolfhart Pannenberg (b 1928) is one of the most influential theologians and philosophers of our time. He studied under Karl Barth and became Professor of Systematic Theology at Mainz and Munich, where he still lives. In this "Guide for the Perplexed", Tim Bradshaw explains Pannenberg's thought, in which theology is not separable from a 'secular' philosophy, along the grain of his development. Key texts are used for this, and difficult perplexing ideas, such as his notion of 'retroactivity' from the future back through the past and present, are addressed in the context of Pannenberg's overarching view of things. His doctrine of the Trinity, his view of simultaneity and human development, as well as his engagement with the natural sciences are major areas of perplexity given attention. How the ideal is instantiated in the real, or how the real is the rational, is argued as a clue to his system. Continuum's "Guides for the Perplexed" are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that students and readers can find especially challenging - or indeed downright bewildering. Concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to grasp, these books explain and explore key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding materials. Review 'Bradshaw's book will benefit students of Pannenberg and provide a valuable starting point for engagement with this prominent figure of modern theology.''Timothy Bradshaw offers a lucid and reliable exposition of the range of Pannenberg's theology; his book will serve as an excellent guide to the work of one of the most eminent modern Christian minds.' - John Webster, King's College, Aberdeen, ScotlandThis fine introduction to Pannenberg's theology navigates Pannenberg's views of God, history, Christology, and ontology in accessible language for those uninitiated into his thinking... Pannenberg is not a thinker quickly mastered. Bradshaw indeed helps the "perplexed" by walking the neophyte through complex philosophical vocabulary and concepts. His text is to be recommended for students of Pannenberg's thought or contemporary theology in general. About the Author The Revd. Timothy Bradshaw, M.A., Ph.D., is Senior Tutor and Tutor in Christian Doctrine at Regent's Park College, Oxford, UK