Revitalizing Theological Epistemology: Holisitc Evangelical Approaches to the Knowledge of God

An acrimonious divorce is underway between evangelical theology and foundationalism - especially among younger evangelical scholars not directly connected with the modernist-fundamentalist controversy - who are almost certainly reading and engaging more of Derrida than Descartes; more interested in doing theology and philosophy for the church than for the academy; more in tune with Wesley's than War eld's theology; more interested in applying than defending the Bible; more concerned with the hermeneutics of Gadamer and Ricoeur than (Arno) Gabelein and (A.T.) Robertson; more occupied with the philosophical method of Heidegger than Hegel; more moved by the epistemology of Kierkegaard and Barth than of Kant and Bultmann; and more comfortable with post-modern than modern culture. In 'Revitalizing Theological Epistemology' Steven B. Sherman addresses questions about what evangelical theology should be doing in light of the changing cultural situation. This book is about contemporary evangelical approaches to the knowledge of God, considering - and suggesting - ways Christian philosophers and theologians envision and make use of theological knowledge in the post-modern context. "In this insightful book, Steven Sherman explores issues that are at the heart of current debates about the foundationalist epistemology that has long held sway in evangelical theology. He does so, with philosophical and theological savvy, but also with deep commitment to the truth of the Gospel." - Richard J. Mouw, Fuller Theological Seminary " 'Revitalizing Theological Epistemology' grapples courageously and innovatively with core issues that confront evangelical thought and practice today. Using the writings of Clark Pinnock and Lesslie Newbigin as evaluative lenses, Sherman traces the emergence and essence of a post-conservative theological epistemology, considering important factors leading reformist evangelicals toward a more holistic, communal approach to the knowledge of God. Sherman's focused analysis and assessment concludes with a modest proposal for developing a revitalizing theological epistemology. I recommend it for the study of contemporary theology and culture." - Wilbert R. Shenk, Fuller Theological Seminary Steven B. Sherman is Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Winebrenner Theological Seminary.