Process Theology: A Guide for the Perplexed

by Bruce G. Epperly

Publisher:

T&T Clark

, 2011

Overview

This is an accessible introductory guide to process theology designed for seminary and university classes as well as lay study. In addition to addressing the major tenants of process theology as they relate to traditional theological issues, Epperly addresses cutting-edge issues in theology and ethics such as pluralism and postmodernism, matters of life and death, science (technology and genetics), and emerging forms of Christianity. Epperly assists readers to overcome the obstacles created by the technical language often employed by process theologians. By concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to grasp, Process Theology: A Guide for the Perplexed is a clear, concise, and accessible introduction to thinkers, writers, and subjects within the theological movement.

The Logos Bible Software edition of this volume streamlines and enhances your study. Scripture passages link directly to your English translations and original-language texts, and important theological concepts link to dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Perform powerful searches by topic to find what other authors, scholars, and theologians have to say.

Key Features

• Explains the concepts and difficulties of process theology
• Simplified explanation of technical concepts
• Syntheses of diverse theological perspectives from experts in the field

Contents

• What is Process Theology and Why is It So Perplexing?
• A Truly Personal God
• Transforming Christology
• The Spirit and the Dancing Trinity
• The Human Adventure
• Faith and Science in Creative Transformation
• Ethics for a Small Planet
• The Church in Creative Transformation
• Survival After Death in a Pluralistic Age
• New Horizons for Process Theology

Top Highlights

“In the spirit of the early Logos theologians, process theology asserts that wherever truth and healing are present, God is its source whether in the Hindu ashram, the Jewish temple, the Zen meditation room, or the Islamic mosque.” (Page 65)

“the foundational text of process theology. Dr. J.M. Whittaker wrote the following to Victor Lowe:” (Page 11)

“the possibility that God might not be in control of everything that happens in life” (Page 5)

“Process theology presents a transformative vision of reality that is responsive to the challenges of postmodernity, pluralism, and technology.” (Page vii)

“chance, reflected in the impact of DNA and environmental factors, as well as human and divine purpose shapes our lives” (Page 5)

Praise for the Print Edition

Process theology comes in many forms. Some technical philosophical forms confuse more than enlighten. Bruce Epperly offers his own form of process theology in accessible narrative and confessional prose. The anecdotes, case studies, and stories bring alive process perspectives on crucial issues of our time. This book should further establish and expand process theology’s standing as a persuasive alternative for making sense of God and the many dimensions and questions of our existence.

—Thomas Jay Oord, elder, Nampa First Church of the Nazarene

Unbelievable. Bruce Epperly really succeeds at communicating process theology in its full breadth and depth, in ways that will satisfy newcomers and advanced students alike. Yet he does it almost wholly without the use of technical terms! Epperly’s writing flows beautifully. . . . Perhaps the best in-depth introduction to process theology available for non-specialists.

—Philip Clayton, Ingraham Professor of Theology, Claremont School of Theology

Given that process theology has earned a reputation for being one of the least accessible theological movements, Bruce Epperly does a good job in helping to clarify the main arguments and translating the vocabulary into something akin to everyday usage.

—The Church Times

There is much to commend with this book . . . for a cogent, lucid, well-illustrated, grounded, passionate, comprehensive introduction to one of the most lively and influential schools of theological thought of the last 50 years, Epperly’s book does its job very well.

—Regents Review

Product Details

• Title: Process Theology: A Guide for the Perplexed
• Author: Bruce G. Epperly
• Series: Guides for the Perplexed
• Publisher: T&T Clark
• Print Publication Date: 2011
• Logos Release Date: 2014
• Pages: 192
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• Subject: Process theology
• ISBNs: 9780567119995, 0567119998
• Resource ID: LLS:PRCSTHLGY
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2023-07-24T15:54:02Z

About Bruce G. Epperly

Bruce Epperly is the Director of Continuing Education and Professor of Practical Theology at Lancaster Theological Seminary. He is also co-pastor, with his wife Rev. Dr. Katherine Gould Epperly, of the Disciples United Community Church in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Prior to that time, Dr. Epperly served as Director of the Protestant Ministry and Adjunct Professor in Theology, Spirituality, and Medicine at Georgetown University and Medical School (1982-1999), and Acting Associate Dean, Assistant to the President for On-line Programs, and Adjunct Professor in Theology, Spirituality, and Pastoral Care at Wesley Theological Seminary (2000-2003). He has also served as an interim minister in Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ congregations as well as the Director of the Washington Institute for Spirituality and Health. An ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ, Dr. Epperly has written fifteen books, including God’s Touch: Faith, Wholeness and the Healing Miracles of Jesus; Mending the World: Spiritual Hope for Ourselves and Our Planet and Walking in the Light: A Jewish-Christian Vision of Healing and Wholeness (the first and second volumes of a trilogy on Jewish-Christian theology and spirituality, co-written with Rabbi Lewis Solomon); Reiki Healing Touch and the Way of Jesus (co-written with Kate Epperly), and The Power of Affirmative Faith: A Spirituality of Personal Transformation, which received Spirituality and Health magazine’s award as being “one of the best books in spirituality in 2001.†His latest books, to be released Fall 2008, include his response to Rick Warren’s Purpose Driven Life, Holy Adventure: Forty-one Days of Audacious Living; Feed the Fire: Avoiding Clergy Burnout, written with Kate Epperly; and The Four Seasons of Ministry: A Harvest of Righteousness. Dr Epperly speaks regularly throughout North America on subjects such as: healing and wholeness, spiritual formation, Christianity and complementary medicine, process theology, ministerial wholeness, and progressive theology and spirituality. He has appeared on “Nightline” “ABC World News Tonight” and “PBS News Hour.†He has been married to Rev. Dr. Katherine Gould Epperly since 1979, and is the parent of Matthew Epperly, age 26, who lives in Manhattan. Dr. Epperly’s interests, beyond the ministry and academics, include walking, reading mysteries, travel, gardening, and cooking. He regularly meets with students in the Adirondack chairs at Franklin and Marshall College, across the street from the seminary. He is a reiki teacher/master, spiritual guide, and spiritual coach for pastors interested in personal wellness and spiritual growth.