The Promise of Narrative Theology

'Narrative' or 'story' theology has attracted increasing interest in recent years. This approach recognizes that Christian faith is rooted in particular historical events which are recounted in the narratives of Christian scripture and tradition. 'Stories' of this kind, forming as they do the basis for Christian affirmations about the nature of God and the reality of grace are thought to be more suitable material for theological reflection than the statements of systematic theology not least because they succeed better in combining that reflection with the nature of Christian experience. Because narrative theology is still in its infancy, it takes many forms. One of the most important functions of this book is to introduce the reader to the many finds of narrative theology, to show how they developed, and to indicate their strengths and weaknesses. However, he provides more than a progress report. Underlying his approach is the conviction that narrative theology is also the key to answering two important, interrelated questions: What makes a Christian distinctive? How does revelation come about in Christianity? Here is an exciting new piece of theological writing which sheds new light on the Bible, creeds, and much traditional theology.