The Light of Faith and Reason - by Gerhard Lohfink (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Renowned Scripture scholar Gerhard Lohfink brings the origins and progress of enlightenment to the forefront of Christian faith.

The history of the European Enlightenment did not begin in the 17th century. It started in Greece (something no one doubts), and it began with stories about Abraham and Israel's exodus from Egypt (something many do not know or disregard). In The Light of Faith and Reason, renowned Scripture scholar Gerhard Lohfink shows the degree to which the Old Testament already affords enlightenment, and how that work of enlightenment was continued and deepened by Jesus and the church. On the basis of this Jewish-Christian history of enlightenment, what is at issue is the rationality of faith, something increasingly the subject of debate today. The description here is not intended to deny the mystery of faith; rather, it is meant to illuminate its rationality.

Review Quotes

"In a world of constant challenge of Christianity's intellectual integrity, Lohfink highlights that the Christian faith is not outdated or just a leftover after the European Enlightenment. In his broad scope of topics, he demonstrates not only his expertise as a biblical scholar. In a highly personal voice, he also presents his own spirituality in deep attachment to his academic profession. Following Lohfink's thoughts, we can recognize that there is no stalemate between Christian faith and reason. Even further, by joining Lohfink's adventure of faith, we can see this undertaking as deeply fulfilling."
Florian Klug is a lecturer at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Germany and the University of Vienna/Austria
-- (10/23/2024 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Gerhard Lohfink (1934-2024) was professor of New Testament exegesis at the University of Tübingen. His many award-winning books include All My Springs Are in You, The Most Important Words of Jesus, Between Heaven and Earth, The Forty Parables of Jesus, No Irrelevant Jesus, Jesus of Nazareth, Is This All There Is?, The Our Father, and Prayer Takes Us Home, all from Liturgical Press.