Biblical Faith and Natural Theology: The Gifford Lectures for 1991: Delivered in the University of Edinburgh (Clarendon Paperbacks) [Paperback]

James Barr (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 12, 1995 | Series: Clarendon Paperbacks

Do people know about God just by being human beings? Or do they need special divine assistance, through the Bible and the church? Natural theology was long accepted as a basic ingredient in all theology, but in the twentieth century it was rejected by important theologians, especially Karl Barth. His views denied all natural theology and placed greater emphasis on the Bible. But what if the Bible itself uses, depends on, and supports natural theology? Professor Barr here pursues these questions within the Bible itself and within the history of ideas, earlier and more recent; and he looks at their implications for religion and theology in the future.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"This is an important book for guiding much Protestant theology back from a strange byway it took under the pressure of Karl Barth. Barr's treatment once again locates faith and theology in the natural openness of the human spirit to God, making us radically able to receive as pure gift the self-revelation of God in his word to the ancient people of the covenant, and in his Son Jesus Christ."--Theological Studies

"As usual, a very thought-provoking book, vintage Barr."--Old Testament Abstracts

"This is a book from which much can be gained and on many levels. Not only is it written with an admirable clarity of thought and style, it is also rich and rewarding, shedding a great deal of light on many subjects along the way of exploring its main theme....The dialogue with Karl Barth throughout the book provides a thoughtful and valuable commentary on contemporary theology and its methods....[An] excellent book."--Theology

"Those concerned with biblical theology will find matters re-assessed and fresh balances struck, chiefly in relation to Old Testament examples, with Barr's usual authority and clarity."--Contact

"The Gifford Lectures for 1991 make a splendid book, with bibliographies and indexes included. As usual, Barr makes complex problems appear in a different, and usually clearer, light, yet without undue simplification."--Journal for the Study of the Old Testament

About the Author

James Barr is at Vanderbilt University, Nashville.

Product Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (January 12, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0198263767
• ISBN-13: 978-0198263760
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,599,849 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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