Experience, Culture and Religion in Systematic Theology: An Integrative and Pluriform Methodology

Edmond Chua offers an experiential approach to systematic theology,building a framework from human experiences such as psychology,cultural diversity,and religious plurality. He retains the core tenets of a Christian doctrine of God while creating an inclusive and pluriform theology. Chua's argument is biblically rooted and appreciates the Christian tradition,and in the latter half of the book, he returns to classical doctrines to shed new light on the wisdom of theologians such as Paul, Augustine, Aquinas, Luther, and Barth. The result is a bold Christian vision that is culturally engaged and globally applicable, contributing to interreligious dialogue.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 28 September 2023
Publisher: James Clarke & Co Ltd

Most systematic theologians begin their work by considering the nature of God and the Bible as the primary sources of revelation of that nature. However, what would a systematic theology look like if it started with an experiential knowledge of God? In his book, "Experiencing God: A Theological Journey," Edmond Chua offers a unique approach to developing such a theology. Chua begins by exploring various realms of human experience, such as psychology, cultural diversity, and religious plurality. He then builds a framework for a systematic theology that is inclusive and pluriform, while retaining the core tenets of a Christian doctrine of God.

Despite his innovative methodology, Chua's argument remains firmly rooted in the Bible and appreciates the rich tradition of Christianity. In the latter half of the book, he revisits classical doctrines such as the Trinity, Christology, evil, sin, and salvation. By incorporating his inclusive view of the human religious experience, Chua sheds new light on the wisdom of theologians like Paul, Augustine, Aquinas, Luther, Barth, and others. The result is a bold and culturally engaged Christian vision that has global applicability and can contribute to interreligious dialogue.

This book is of interest to systematic theologians as it offers a fresh perspective on the development of theology. It challenges traditional approaches and encourages theologians to explore new ways of understanding God and the human experience. At the same time, it provides a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their faith and engage with other religions in a respectful and meaningful way.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780227179499