Description
For both Maximus the Confessor (c. 580-662) and Jürgen Moltmann (b. 1926) understanding what it means to be human springs from a contemplative vision of God. All Things New explores surprising parallels between the theological anthropology of the seventh-century Byzantine monk and the contemporary German Protestant. Bingaman shows that in their Trinitarian and christological reflection both Maximus and Moltmann root their understanding of the human calling, in contrast to many modern theologies that tend to devise an account of human being first, and then try to find ways in which Christ and the Trinity are somehow relevant to this human being.
In this constructive work, Bingaman demonstrates the intrinsic connection between Maximus and Moltmann’s views of human beings, Christ and the Trinity, the church, and the human calling in creation. Illustrating the richness of these ancient and postmodern theologies in conversation, All Things New lays out future trajectories in theological anthropology, patristic ressourcement, ecologically attuned theology and spirituality, and Orthodox-Protestant dialogue.
About the Author
Brock Bingaman is Assistant Professor of Religious Studies and Religious Studies Programme Director at Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia. His publications include The Philokalia: A Classic Text of Orthodox Spirituality (2012), co-edited with Bradley Nassif, and numerous chapters in books and articles in journals on Christian spirituality, ecology, comparative theology, and Christian-Muslim relations.
Contents
Foreword by Jürgen Moltmann
Preface
List of Abbreviations
1. Introduction
2. The Trinitarian Matrix of the Human Calling
3. The Christological Basis of the Human Calling
4. The Redemptive Goal of the Human Calling
5. The Trinitarian-Christocentric Practice of the Human Calling
6. Conclusion: The Human Calling in Creation – Rooted in God
Bibliography
Index
Endorsements and Reviews
In this important book, Brock Bingaman brings Maximus the Confessor and Jürgen Moltmann into constructive dialogue. Without in any way trying to disguise the very different idioms in which they think, Bingaman shows how both Maximus and Moltmann base their reflections on the human calling and destiny in the doctrine of the Trinity and the Paschal mystery of Christ. It is a rich and stimulating work.
Andrew Louth, Professor Emeritus of Patristic and Byzantine Studies, Durham University
…the study is immensely successful. Those unfamiliar with the theology or either Maximus or Moltmann can find safe passage here; Bingaman is an able guide both by way of introductory descriptions and detailed analysis.
Samuel J. Youngs, in Reviews in Religion and Theology, Vol 23, Issue 2
