As Christians become more engaged with the reality of religious pluralism, many find themselves torn between two worthy goals - to be faithful to the lordship of Jesus Christ and to be open generously to possible truths found in other religions. In The First and the Last George Sumner offers a constructive way forward, showing how Christian theology can bring these two goals together. At stake in the current debate over religious pluralism is the issue not only of evangelism and mission but also of the Christian claim to the uniqueness of Jesus Christ. Sumner leads readers through the...

Description: The integrative theme of this collection of essays is change and transformation explored in the context of diverse expressions within the context of Anglican Church history. It addresses some central themes--notably the sacraments, liturgy, biblical interpretation, theological education, the relationship of church and state, governance and authority, and Christian education. The volume traces Anglican Church history chronologically. It includes a comparative study of penance in the thought of John Wyclif and Thomas Cranmer. The book also treats the dispersal of authority evident...