“Contemporary Christianity needs serious theological reflection on the very notion of authority, and this is exactly what Christa McKirland offers in A Theology of Authority. The virtues of good theological inquiry are all over this book: It is winsome, wise, gentle, and charitable while also straightforward, unflinching, and bold. A wonderful combination of biblical, analytic, and practical theology, it will be a blessing both to those who celebrate it and to those who are challenged by it.”
Thomas H. McCall, Timothy C. and Julie M. Tennent Chair of Theology, Asbury Theological Seminary
“Are church leaders supposed to exercise authority? Yes and no. Pairing methodological clarity with practical implications, McKirland disentangles various types of authority to discern how, when, and by whom the exercise of authority is legitimate according to the Scriptures. This book is a gift to the church today, offering a sure foundation for discussions of ministry roles and responsibilities that will move the tired conversation forward to ensure that our churches—and all their members—can flourish.”
Carmen Joy Imes, associate professor of Old Testament, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University
Christa L. McKirland (PhD, University of St. Andrews) is dean of faculty and lecturer in systematic theology at Carey Baptist College in Aotearoa (New Zealand). She focuses especially on theological anthropology and is the author God's Provision, Humanity's Need: The Gift of Our Dependence. She is also the executive director of Logia International, an organization that seeks to encourage women to pursue postgraduate theological study for the sake of the academy and church.