Embodied: Living as Whole People in a Fractured World

Theologian Gregg Allison presents a holistic theology of the human body to equip us to address contemporary issues related to our bodies, including sexuality, gender, suffering, body image, end-of-life questions, and how to live as whole people in a fractured world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2021
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

We often take our bodies for granted, only paying attention to them when faced with physical challenges or crises. However, we have internalized an unbiblical belief that our immaterial aspect (our soul or spirit) is inherently good, while our material aspect (our body) is either inherently evil or neutral, merely a means for our souls to navigate the world. As a result, we often neglect or disparage our bodies, viewing them as obstacles to spiritual growth and longing for the day when we will be free from them.

The truth is, we are not our bodies; we are our bodies. And God created us in this way for a specific purpose. In his book, "A Holistic Theology of the Human Body: From Conception to Eternity," theologian Gregg Allison presents a comprehensive theology of the human body, covering the span of our existence from conception to eternity. With Scripture as his guide, Allison aims to equip us with the knowledge and understanding we need to address pressing contemporary issues related to our bodies, such as how we express our sexuality, whether gender is inherent or constructed, the meaning of suffering, body image, end-of-life questions, and how to live as whole people in a fractured world.

One of the key themes Allison explores is the significance of the human body in the divine plan. He argues that the body is not merely a physical vessel but a living, breathing entity that is deeply connected to our spiritual and emotional well-being. Allison emphasizes that the body is not an obstacle to spiritual growth but a means by which we can experience the fullness of life that God intended for us.

Another important aspect of Allison's theology is his recognition of the diversity of human experiences and bodies. He acknowledges that not everyone experiences their body in the same way, and that factors such as race, gender, sexuality, and ability can shape our experiences and perspectives on our bodies. Allison seeks to create a theology that is inclusive and respectful of all human beings, recognizing the unique contributions that each person brings to the world.

In addition to exploring these theological themes, Allison also provides practical guidance on how to live as whole people in a fractured world. He addresses issues such as how to care for our bodies, how to express our sexuality in a healthy and respectful way, and how to navigate the challenges of suffering and illness. Allison's theology is grounded in a deep love for God and for the human body, and he offers a hopeful vision for how we can live in harmony with our bodies and with one another.

In conclusion, "A Holistic Theology of the Human Body: From Conception to Eternity" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the significance of the human body in the divine plan and in our daily lives. By presenting a comprehensive theology of the human body, Allison equips us with the knowledge and understanding we need to address pressing contemporary issues related to our bodies and to live as whole people in a fractured world. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in exploring these important topics.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 141 x 215 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781540900050