Becoming Whole and Holy: An Integrative Conversation about Christian Formation - Paperback

by Jeannine K. Brown (Author), Carla M. Dahl (Author), Wyndy Corbin Reuschling (Author)

How does Christian formation happen and what are its moral implications? This book brings into conversation three disciplines that are crucial for Christian formation--social science, biblical studies/hermeneutics, and ethics--to present a cohesive, dynamic vision of human wholeness and spiritual holiness. The authors weave together insights from their respective fields to address the relationship between personal and communal formation, moral development, and the interpretation of Scripture. Revealing the process as well as the fruits of interdisciplinary dialogue, this book offers a fresh approach to understanding human formation. The final chapter, a case study on immigration, demonstrates the authors' integrative method.

Back Jacket

In rare but true interdisciplinary fashion, Brown, Dahl, and Reuschling probe the relationship of wholeness and holiness. Drawing on their respective specialties in biblical hermeneutics, the social sciences, and ethics, the authors convincingly demonstrate with freshness and clarity that wholeness and holiness are linked, and that the path to them is a joyful but precarious journey.--Dennis P. Hollinger, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary

"A compelling integrative conversation about spiritual formation. This remarkably broad and balanced book offers real wisdom about both the end of spiritual formation and the means of getting there."--James C. Wilhoit, Wheaton College; author, Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered

"This is not just a book about Christian formation. In a surprising way, it also traces the paths of becoming whole and holy as its authors model their own growth in their interactions with one another. Here is a conversation worth joining!"--Joel B. Green, Fuller Theological Seminary

"Becoming fully human before God and within the world should be a journey taken in community. In this book, a biblical scholar, a social scientist, and an ethicist sharpen one another's appreciation of this need for constructive interdependence and integration."--M. Daniel Carroll R., Denver Seminary; author, Christians at the Border

"This book is essential reading for students, pastors, and scholars who care about the pursuit of an authentically Christian life. The result is a splendid example of eminently practical theology that strengthens the church's mission to make disciples."--Jeffrey P. Greenman, Regent College

"What an amazing model of interdisciplinary conversation these three scholars offer in a fresh and fertile approach to becoming whole and holy. I highly recommend this book to those who are serious about being formed in God's image."--Judith K. Balswick, Fuller Theological Seminary

"Three scholars who are also friends have created a new way of working at the intersections of their disciplines to offer immensely rich reflections on the process of spiritual formation. I highly recommend this work."--David P. Gushee, Mercer University

Author Biography

Jeannine K. Brown (PhD, Luther Seminary) is professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, and author of Scripture as Communication: Introducing Biblical Hermeneutics and The Disciples in Narrative Perspective: The Portrayal and Function of the Matthean Disciples. She has also written for publications such as Journal of Biblical Literature and Catholic Biblical Quarterly. Carla M. Dahl (PhD, University of Minnesota) is professor of congregational and community care leadership at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. She has written for the Journal of Psychology and Theology and contributed to several books, including Leading from Within, Research Methods in Family Therapy, and the forthcoming Dictionary of Christian Spirituality. Wyndy Corbin Reuschling (PhD, Drew University) is professor of ethics and theology at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. She is the author of Reviving Evangelical Ethics: The Promises and Pitfalls of Classic Models of Morality and has written for publications such as The Journal of the Society of Christian Ethics and Ashland Theological Journal.