From his death in 1761 through the American Civil War, Samuel Davies was a recognized name among American Presbyterians, yet for more than a century he has remained far more obscure in discussions of American religion. During the mid-Eighteenth Century, New Side Presbyterian evangelist and preacher Samuel Davies was a pioneer for religious toleration in Colonial America, yet to date no single work has examined Davies' vision for the interior life. Theology and Spirituality in the Works of Samuel Davies is the first monograph-length analysis of Davies' conception of Christian spirituality. After a decade of pastoral ministry to congregations in Virginia, Davies followed eminent American theologian Jonathan Edwards as the fourth President of the College of New Jersey (Princeton University), a tenure cut short by his early death at age thirty-seven. J.C. Harrod examines various aspects of Davies' own personal piety as well as the place that Scripture, conversion, holiness, and the means of grace played in his formulation of Christian piety.

From his death in 1761 through the American Civil War, Samuel Davies was a recognized name among American Presbyterians, yet for more than a century he has remained far more obscure in discussions of American religion. During the mid-Eighteenth Century, New Side Presbyterian evangelist and preacher Samuel Davies was a pioneer for religious toleration in Colonial America, yet to date no single work has examined Davies' vision for the interior life. Theology and Spirituality in the Works of Samuel Davies is the first monograph-length analysis of Davies' conception of Christian spirituality. After a decade of pastoral ministry to congregations in Virginia, Davies followed eminent American theologian Jonathan Edwards as the fourth President of the College of New Jersey (Princeton University), a tenure cut short by his early death at age thirty-seven. J.C. Harrod examines various aspects of Davies' own personal piety as well as the place that Scripture, conversion, holiness, and the means of grace played in his formulation of Christian piety.

The present collection of essays examines specific texts by Charles Wesley in multiple dimensions (theological, poetical, historical, biographical, etc.), demonstrating both the profound nature of the hymns and their continued relevance for Christians today. The discussions are organized by theological/liturgical topics, and each essay treats us to the hymn in its complete original form (noting significant variants as necessary), explains the historical context of its composition, provides a theological interpretation, and relates it to the life and faith of the believer. In the pages of this book, the reader will find both information and inspiration. Scholars of hymnody and of Charles Wesley will appreciate the depth of inquiry in the chapters. Just as importantly, laypersons and hymn lovers (as well as scholars) will find much spiritual benefit from the study of hymns they know and love, as well as texts with which they may be less familiar. This exploration of these profound hymns will surely lead to a deeper understanding of the "amazing love" responsible for changing the course of Charles Wesley's life, who in turn changed the course of Christian worship. With contributions from: Steve Weaver Jonathan A. Powers Patrick A. Eby Christopher P. McFadden C. Michael Hawn Josh Dear Joe Harrod Paul W. Chilcote Roger D. Duke Michael A.G. Haykin Margaret Garrett Jim Scott Orrick

Anthropology and Christian Theology have traditionally interpreted religion in quite different ways and have often been thought of as hostile to one another. In fact, a fundamental concern for human experience lies at the heart of both disciplines. This innovative book takes a new look at key anthropological and theological themes, and explores the intricacies of their interplay throughout history and in the present. Sacrifice, embodiment, ritual, incarnation, symbolism, gift and power are all related in ways that shed new light on religious behaviour and belief. Detailed analysis of fundamental Christian rites shows how they help generate emotional meaning and inspire philosophical ideas, and demonstrates how the body serves as a vehicle for religious beliefs.Through an examination of these issues and much more, Davies reveals how religious rituals help people to become secure in their sense of identity. This accessible foray into new territory is essential reading for anthropologists, theologians, or anyone interested in religion who is seeking new interpretations of familiar themes.

Anthropology and Christian Theology have traditionally interpreted religion in quite different ways and have often been thought of as hostile to one another. In fact, a fundamental concern for human experience lies at the heart of both disciplines. This i nnovative book takes a new look at key anthropological and theological themes, and explores the intricacies of their interplay throughout history and in the present. Sacrifice, embodiment, ritual, incarnation, symbolism, gift and power are all related in ways that shed new light on religious behaviour and belief. Detailed analysis of fundamental Christian rites shows how they help generate emotional meaning and inspire philosophical ideas, and demonstrates how the body serves as a vehicle for religious be liefs. Through an examination of these issues and much more, Davies reveals how religious rituals help people to become secure in their sense of identity. This accessible foray into new territory is essential reading for anthropologists, theologians, o r anyone interested in religion who is seeking new interpretations of familiar themes.

Relevant questions about prayer answered from the whole witness of Scripture Praying is often the most common yet least understood practice of Christian spirituality. In 40 Questions about Prayer, scholar and teacher Joseph C. Harrod shares biblical insight on the nature and practice of Christian prayer. Harrod's emphasis on searching the Scriptures results in a trustworthy, practical guide to a vital aspect of Christian belief and behavior, equally appropriate for seminary courses, Bible studies, and personal understanding. The accessible question-and-answer format of 40 Questions about Prayer allows readers to explore the issues they care most about, such as these: • Does prayer change God's mind? • Does God hear the prayers of unbelievers? • What does it mean to pray in Jesus's name? • How does prayer affect evangelism, spiritual awakening, and revival? • What does it mean to pray "without ceasing" (1 Thess. 5:17)? • Do physical postures affect prayer?

Pittsburgh Theological Monograph - New Series General Editor - Dikran Y. Hadidian