Description: The kingdom of God is breaking in here on earth, and you can be part of it.
No doubt, it is common to hear Christians today declaring their allegiance to God's kingdom. But what does this actually entail, and what difference does it make? In his characteristically provocative and daring way, Christoph Blumhardt articulates a vision of God's kingdom that turns much of our understanding of modern Christianity upside-down. In the present volume, available in English for the first time, Blumhardt leads readers to look at the gospel anew, challenging us to follow Jesus in a way that makes God's reign a reality, here and now. Bypassing vague notions of spirituality, as well as transcending simplistic approaches to faith, Blumhardt inspires us to actually live under the rule and reign of God.Brief description: Christoph Friedrich Blumhardt (1842-1919), with his unconventional ideas about the kingdom of God, profoundly affected a whole generation of European seekers. Pastor, politician, and author, he influenced Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Emil Brunner, Oscar Cullman, and Karl Barth, among other luminaries. Yet his vision and witness are still waiting to be discovered by most Americans, few of whom have had access to his works. He carried forward the work of his father, Johann Christoph Blumhardt (1805-1880), who is regarded by many as the key figure of German pietism.
Review Quotes: This short book will be of interest not only to those in the Lutheran theological tradition, of which the author was a part, but to all interested in church renewal and its catalytic potential for impacting society. There is every likelihood that these pages will resonate with contemporary renewalists across the majority world, and that would be important not only for the ongoing reception of the Blumhardtian legacy but also for the renewal of Christian theology for the 21st century.--Amos Yong, Regent University
The surprise of grace, the life-giving reality of Christ, and the demand that Christians live toward and into the Kingdom of God--these are the great themes of Christoph Blumhardt's thought. Those looking for an introduction to Blumhardt are well advised to start with The Gospel of God's Reign. Those already acquainted with Blumhardt's life and witness will receive this volume with gratitude and, most likely, some measure of awe.--Paul Dafydd Jones, University of Virginia By introducing Christoph Blumhardt to the English-speaking world, Winn and Moore have given us a great gift. Blumhardt proclaims the good news of God's social order with striking contemporary resonance; thus, his insights serve as an invaluable and unique contribution to both modern and postmodern theology. This book enlivens me and gives me courage to risk action in the world. I couldn't put it down.--Jennifer M. McBride, Wartburg College Blumhardt's newly translated work is a fresh articulation of the gospel in line with a theology of the cross and a social vision that grounds the value of humanity in the message of God's love for the world revealed in Jesus Christ. Helpful introductions add authority by placing this work within the remarkable Blumhardt story. Effectively arranged text invites a thoughtful read, sure to perplex and even offend--but also enlighten, edify, and astonish.--Peter D. Anders, Harvard University