Thank you for the review. I will be adding this to my reading list after I work my way through the RO corpus (okay, so that’s out there a ways).

Here are a few comments . . . while the Bishop of Durham has a knack for analyzing the text for a new perspective (or even a fresh perspective), I worry about two matters: (1) for all our newly found delight in tradition, I find some of his conclusions open up matters that the Fathers closed long ago. One of the functions of a tradition is foundational – I know, gasp if you like. It permits us to make progress in doctrinal areas while not having to open up every area of doctrine. As you know, the number of theological permutations might kill even the most lavishly funded genome project. So, this is my problem – are we going to just rip more holes in orthodoxy until all the faith runs out?

And a second issue: (2) the tendency of postmodern exegetical theologies to “cherry pick” Scripture. Admittedly, conservatives are quite adroit in navigating this sort of practice, but beyond the theologizing being buffet like, it is almost as if these new exegetes find in each phrase in Bible a new Sache with a whole new set of meaning ready to hand. The fragmentation in theology means we need more of Rorty and less of the Holy Spirit to sort it all out.

In short, I’m post post post modern. I very suspicious of any alleged reasons to hope that this new way of doing theology is any better than the previous. I do not care for either modernity or the evangelical reaction.

When the Son of Man returns, will he find faith?

Thanks for your comment. We’re currently reading the book in our SS class at St. John’s. I’ve really enjoyed the book so far and look forward to reading more.

Can’t wait to see you guys next month!

Best wishes,
Cynthia