Wiley-Blackwell Theology and Families: 21 (Challenges in Contemporary Theology)

This timely book, by one of the world’s leading theologians in this field, makes a positive theological contribution to present intellectual and practical discussions about families and children. Explores the intellectual and practical debates about the changing nature of family forms, roles and relationships, and how Christian faith and theology can contribute to the thriving of families and children. Considers the causes and consequences of changes to families over recent decades. Utilizes the theological resources that are best equipped to deal with these changes and to shape ethical teaching, ethical practice, moral judgements, and public policies. Develops family-friendly readings of scripture, tradition and doctrine, and moves forward theological treatment of marriage, gender and children. Review "In what will surely become a standard work, Adrian Thatcher provides a Trinitarian theology of families and children which addresses the question: 'How may the resources of Christian faith and practice contribute to the thriving of families, and in particular, of children?' ... Each discussion is full of wisdom and practical insight, and engages in constructive criticism with contemporary authors from across the theological spectrum ... A very fine book, well written, and very timely." Church Times <!--end--> “A dense, scholarly text, carefully argued and meticulously researched.” The Way “This book is a preferential option for and a theological liberation of children. No one interested in children and their parents in a time of changing family structure should miss it. It is scholarly yet readable by a wide audience, thought provoking, and it offers clear direction for the future. A master theologian goes to the heart of one of the most universal, and most neglected, issues of our day.” Michael G Lawler, Creighton University "This volume is carefully constructed, well documented, comprehensive and in general excellent. The combination of the doctrinal tradition (e.g. the Trinity and baptism) with expertise in contemporary thought on social issues ( e.g. children’s rights, issues of choosing childlessness and step-families) is impressive. Adrian Thatcher explores a wide range of theological positions from the far right to the far left, dealing knowledgeably with such complex issues as the sexual exploitation of children and the churches’ roles in the promotion of pro-family policies. The study deserves to become a standard work of reference." George Newlands, Glasgow University "An outstanding contribution to theological debate on families and children … that combines the expertise of an eminent theologian and the experience of a loving parent." Theological Book Review “Thatcher … always pays careful attention both to social scientific evidence and to biblical evidence … overall blend is distinctive … a book to buy.” Journal of Theological Studies "A rich and thought provoking book that engages theologically with a host of facets of contempory family life." Journal of Contempory Religion From the Publisher Families and children are becoming increasingly important within theology. There are global upheavals to families. Families are smaller. 40% of births occur outside marriage, and 40% of children experience parental divorce by their 16th birthday. Changing relations between men and women, women and work, and parents and children, all contribute to changing family forms and practices. There is disagreement both inside and outside the churches about the causes and consequences of these changes.This timely book, by one of the world's leading theologians in this field, responds to three core challenges which changing families present to contemporary theology and to the churches. First, it makes a positive theological contribution to present intellectual and practical discussions about families and children: second, it identifies and utilizes theological sources for thinking about r