The Seduction Of The Church [Hardcover]

ABBREVIATED FOR THE COVER. Full synopsis has been copied over for use on the web. JT -------------------------- The importance of the use of gender-inclusive language in today's world is generally accepted, especially in the religious domain. In The Seduction of the Church, Doubles demonstrates, in a popular treatment free of technical jargon, how this important activity is being misused to redefine the Christian faith. Discussing some key theological concepts in the biblical narrative and in modern hymnody, Prof. Doubles points to the cumulative effect of changes in language on the expression and even content of the Christian faith. Well researched and convincingly presented, the author argues that discontinuity between the language of beliefs, and the language of Bible, hymns, and liturgies, invites feelings of discomfort and frustration among church members. It is a book to be read carefully and taken seriously. --Paul J. Achtemeier Jackson Professor Emeritus of Biblical Interpretation, Union Theological Seminary, Virgina We all know that contemporary culture has challenged the traditional wisdom of the church in many ways. It is important for us to assess, however, the question of what has been lost and what has been gained. While this is crucial it is not easy. Doubles skillfully picks his way through this minefield with many surprising results. The outcome is an easily read, straight forward assessment that may be at one time both the most hated and the most praised book of the year. --Richard A. Ray Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Presbyterian Heritage Center Provocative as well as enlightening, The Seduction of the Church is a well-researched, well-constructed study that should be required reading for all church professionals--ministers, educators, and musicians--and students of theology. --Anna White Hill Director of Music First Presbyterian Church, Hartsville, South Carolina Attempting to exorcise the demon of sexism from its Bible lCá