Overview
This book explores how religions have changed in a globalized world and how Christianity is unique among them. Harold Netland, an expert in philosophical aspects of religion and pluralism, offers a fresh analysis of religion in today's globalizing world. He challenges misunderstandings of the concept of religion itself and shows how particular religious traditions, such as Buddhism, undergo significant change with modernization and globalization. Netland then responds to issues concerning the plausibility of Christian commitments to Jesus Christ and the unique truth of the Christian gospel in light of religious diversity. The book concludes with basic principles for living as Christ's disciples in religiously diverse contexts.
Table of Contents
Contents
Introduction
Part 1: Religion(s) in a Modern, Globalizing World
1. Rethinking Religion(s)
2. Secularization, Globalization, and the Religions
3. Buddhism in the Modern World
4. Jesus in a Global, Postcolonial World
Part 2: Christian Commitments in a Pluralistic World
5. Can All Religions Be True?
6. On the Idea of Christianity as the One True Religion
7. Religious Diversity and Reasons for Belief
8. Living with Religious Diversity as Jesus's Disciples
Index
Introduction
Part 1: Religion(s) in a Modern, Globalizing World
1. Rethinking Religion(s)
2. Secularization, Globalization, and the Religions
3. Buddhism in the Modern World
4. Jesus in a Global, Postcolonial World
Part 2: Christian Commitments in a Pluralistic World
5. Can All Religions Be True?
6. On the Idea of Christianity as the One True Religion
7. Religious Diversity and Reasons for Belief
8. Living with Religious Diversity as Jesus's Disciples
Index
Endorsements
"Another outstanding book by preeminent evangelical philosopher of religion Harold Netland. With great effectiveness and faithfulness, Netland unpacks one of the knottiest theological issues of our day: the challenge of non-Christian religions and what that challenge means for those with Christian commitments. This is essential reading."
Terry C. Muck, executive director, Louisville Institute
"As one of the most respected evangelicals working in the philosophy of religion over the past two-plus decades, Harold Netland is attentive like few others to the challenges confronting Christian faith in a global context. His characteristically careful treatment and analysis in this book help us understand why Christian mission has to proceed with humility rather than triumphalistically in the present ferment."
Amos Yong, professor of theology and mission, Fuller Theological Seminary
"There is no better writer today than Harold Netland on how to think about Jesus in a global, postcolonial world, especially when it comes to epistemology. Netland combines a passionate heart with a keen mind. He has listened carefully to the cacophonous worldwide discussion on these questions and has compelling things to say about how to believe that Jesus is the only way to the Father while at the same time recognizing that there is goodness and truth among other religionists."
Gerald R. McDermott, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University; coauthor of A Trinitarian Theology of Religions: An Evangelical Proposal
"The scope of Harold Netland's book is breathtaking. Seldom do you find such expansive coverage of issues and competing perspectives in a book that also reflects deep acquaintance with diverse disciplines. Netland's exposition of theories and traditions is even handed, and his assessment of complex arguments is incisive. Christianity & Religious Diversity is a model of exacting research, clear and cogent writing, and unusual generosity of spirit. It is an extraordinary achievement."
R. Douglas Geivett, professor of philosophy, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University
"Why be a Christian in this religiously pluralistic world? This book answers that question. Netland has deep knowledge of both the various religions of the world and of recent scholarly discussions of pluralism. His arguments are careful, incisive, and sensible. In addition, the book is faithfully Christian and helpful to the Christian community. I recommend the book highly to all who are interested in the problems of religious pluralism and Christian mission."
Stephen T. Davis, Russell K. Pitzer Professor of Philosophy, Claremont McKenna College
"Not many thinkers are equally at home in John Hick, Alvin Plantinga, and the history of Buddhism, and fewer still are able to combine these interests with much else, as Harold Netland has, in a persuasive proposal about Christianity and the plural global scene. Clear but not simplistic, balanced but not anemic, gentle but not compromising, this volume demonstrates that an informed faith is well able to ground mission in today's world."
Stephen Williams, Union Theological College, Ireland
"For several decades now, Netland's work has illuminated the path toward an evangelical theology of religions. In Christianity & Religious Diversity, Netland extends his analysis of religion and its intersection with culture, modernization, and globalization. With philosophical clarity, theological nuance, and interreligious sensitivity, Netland serves once again as a wise and faithful guide for followers of Jesus seeking to understand our religiously diverse world."
Paul Rhodes Eddy, professor of biblical and theological studies, Bethel University
Author
Harold A. Netland
Harold A. Netland (PhD, Claremont Graduate University) is professor of philosophy of religion and intercultural studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois, where he has taught for more than twenty-five years. He previously served as a missionary in Japan and taught at Tokyo Christian University. He is the author or coauthor of numerous books, including Christianity and Religious Diversity, Encountering Religious Pluralism, and Buddhism: A Christian Exploration and Appraisal. He is also the coeditor of Globalizing Theology and Handbook of Religion.