Theology of Hope: for the 21st Century

The Theology of Hope, written by Jürgen Moltmann, emphasizes the importance of eschatology in theology and its revolutionary effect on the thought, institutions, and conditions of life in the here and now. It views Christian faith as hope for the future of humankind and creation, based on God's promise of the exodus and the resurrection of Jesus. Moltmann argues that this promise is the compulsory force of history, awakening hope that sets human beings unreconciled to present experience, contradicts prevailing natural and social powers, and makes the church the source of continual new impulses towards the realization of righteousness, freedom, and humanity in the light of the promised future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 330 pages
Publication date: 08 October 2021
Publisher: SCM Press

When it was first published in Germany in 1965, The Theology of Hope sparked a significant controversy. It represents a comprehensive statement of the importance of eschatology for theology, particularly an eschatological theology that emphasizes the revolutionary effect of Christian hope upon the thought, institutions, and conditions of life in the present. Jürgen Moltmann understands Christian faith fundamentally as hope for the future of humankind and creation, as promised by the God of the exodus and the resurrection of the crucified Jesus. God's promise is the compulsory force of history, awakening hope that keeps human beings unreconciled to the present experience, sets them in contradistinction to prevailing natural and social powers, and makes the church the source of continual new impulses toward the realization of righteousness, freedom, and humanity in the light of the promised future that is to come.

This new expanded edition of a theological classic includes Moltmann's 2020 Charles Gore lecture, "A Theology of Hope for the 21st Century," in which he offers a powerful reflection on the nature of hope in our current times.

Moltmann's Theology of Hope is a profound exploration of the role of hope in shaping human existence and the world around us. It challenges traditional notions of hope as merely a wish for a better future and instead presents hope as a powerful force that can transform the present and shape the future.

One of the central themes of Moltmann's theology is the idea that hope is not just about individual salvation or personal fulfillment but about the transformation of the entire world. He argues that Christian hope is rooted in the promise of God, who has promised to redeem all of creation and bring it into harmony with himself. This promise is the driving force behind history and is the source of hope for the future.

Moltmann also emphasizes the importance of the church as a source of hope and transformation. He believes that the church is not just a gathering of believers but a living organism that is constantly seeking to embody the hope of God in the world. The church is called to be a beacon of light and a source of hope for those who are lost, marginalized, and oppressed.

In his lecture, Moltmann offers a powerful reflection on the nature of hope in our current times. He argues that hope is not just about overcoming adversity or achieving personal success but about living in the present with a sense of purpose and meaning. He challenges us to see the world through the lens of hope and to work towards creating a better future for all of humanity.

One of the key insights of Moltmann's theology is that hope is not just about the future but about the present moment. He argues that we can find hope in the smallest of things, such as a smile, a kind word, or a act of kindness. Hope is not just about what we hope for but about the way we live in the present.

Another important aspect of Moltmann's theology is the idea that hope is not just about individual salvation but about the salvation of the entire world. He believes that the church has a responsibility to work towards the realization of God's promise for the world and to be a force for good in the world. The church is called to be a voice for the marginalized and to work towards the creation of a more just and equitable society.

In conclusion, The Theology of Hope is a profound and thought-provoking exploration of the importance of hope for theology and for the world. Jürgen Moltmann's vision of hope as a powerful force that can transform the present and shape the future is a compelling and inspiring message for our times. The church has a critical role to play in embodying the hope of God and working towards the realization of a better future for all of humanity.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 139 x 215 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780334060116