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Tim Keller Atlantic Article: Unpacking the Depth of His Thought
Introduction:
Have you ever encountered an intellectual giant whose wisdom transcends denominational boundaries? Tim Keller, the late renowned pastor and author, captivated audiences worldwide with his insightful and accessible articulation of Christian faith in a secular age. This post delves into the significant impact of his Atlantic article, exploring its core arguments, broader implications, and lasting relevance in today's complex world. We'll unpack the key themes, analyze its reception, and consider its continued influence on contemporary Christian thought. Whether you're a longtime follower of Keller's work or a newcomer curious about his impact, this in-depth analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal piece of writing. Prepare to be challenged, informed, and inspired.
The Significance of the Tim Keller Atlantic Article: A Deep Dive
While Tim Keller didn't author a single article specifically titled "Tim Keller Atlantic Article," he contributed significantly to The Atlantic, and numerous articles featuring his insights and perspectives were published there. Therefore, this analysis will focus on the significant contributions and recurring themes within those pieces. It's important to understand that pinpointing one singular article is inaccurate. However, several key areas of his writing consistently appeared in The Atlantic and across his broader work, reflecting his central theological and societal concerns. These include:
#### 1. Keller's Engagement with Secularism: Bridging the Gap Between Faith and Reason
A consistent theme in Keller's writings – and likely present in any Atlantic piece featuring him – was his thoughtful engagement with secularism. He didn’t shy away from difficult questions posed by skeptics, instead choosing to address them head-on with intellectual honesty and grace. He often highlighted the limitations of purely secular worldviews, arguing that a robust Christian faith offered answers to existential questions that secularism couldn't fully address. His approach was less about confrontation and more about inviting thoughtful dialogue and exploration. He demonstrated a profound understanding of secular perspectives, allowing him to effectively communicate the relevance of Christianity to a modern, often secular audience. This approach was crucial in bridging the gap between the church and the broader culture.
#### 2. The Problem of Suffering and the Christian Response: Finding Hope in the Face of Adversity
Keller's understanding of suffering was nuanced and deeply compassionate. He didn't offer simplistic answers or easy platitudes. Instead, he explored the complexities of pain, acknowledging its devastating reality while simultaneously pointing to the hope offered by the Christian faith. His writings likely included reflections on the nature of suffering, the presence of evil, and the role of faith in navigating adversity. He argued that faith doesn't necessarily eliminate suffering but provides a framework for understanding it and finding meaning even amidst unimaginable hardship. This perspective resonated deeply with many readers grappling with personal struggles and societal challenges.
#### 3. Urban Ministry and the Gospel's Relevance in a Changing World: Engaging with the City
Keller's ministry in New York City significantly shaped his perspective on the church's role in urban environments. He championed a contextualized approach to evangelism, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the specific needs and concerns of urban communities. This perspective was likely reflected in any Atlantic contribution, underscoring the relevance of Christianity to real-life issues faced by people in cities. He highlighted the church's responsibility to address social injustices, poverty, and other challenges, showing the practical implications of faith in the everyday lives of urban dwellers.
#### 4. The Role of the Church in Society: A Voice for Truth and Justice
Keller saw the church not as an isolated institution but as a vital part of society. His writings, including those potentially appearing in The Atlantic, likely highlighted the church's responsibility to be a voice for truth, justice, and compassion in the public square. He encouraged Christians to engage in the political and social spheres, advocating for positive change and working towards a more just and equitable society. This active citizenship, informed by Christian values, was a core tenet of his approach to faith.
#### 5. Keller's Literary Style and Impact: Accessibility and Depth
Regardless of the specific Atlantic piece, Keller's writing style consistently combined intellectual rigor with remarkable accessibility. He possessed a gift for making complex theological concepts understandable and engaging for a broad audience, regardless of their background or level of theological knowledge. This clarity and depth contributed significantly to his influence, making his ideas accessible and relatable to a diverse readership.
Book Outline: "Understanding Tim Keller's Impact: A Critical Analysis"
I. Introduction: Setting the stage, outlining Keller's influence, and introducing the scope of the analysis.
II. Keller's Theological Framework: Examining the key tenets of Keller's theology and their relevance to contemporary society.
III. Engaging Secularism: Analyzing Keller's approach to dialogue with secular thought and his strategies for bridging the faith-reason divide.
IV. Addressing Suffering and Hope: Exploring Keller's perspective on the problem of evil and suffering, and the role of faith in finding meaning in adversity.
V. Urban Ministry and Contextualization: Examining Keller's practical approach to ministry in urban settings and the importance of contextualized evangelism.
VI. The Church's Role in Society: Exploring Keller's vision for the church's engagement in the public square, advocating for justice and positive social change.
VII. Conclusion: Summarizing Keller's lasting impact and offering reflections on the future relevance of his work.
Detailed Explanation of the Book Outline:
Each chapter of the proposed book would delve into the specific points outlined above. For example, Chapter III, "Engaging Secularism," would delve into the specific arguments and strategies Keller employed to interact with secular thought, using examples from his writings (including any Atlantic pieces) to illustrate his approach. Similarly, Chapter IV would unpack Keller's nuanced view of suffering, providing detailed analysis of his theological framework and offering examples of how he applied his understanding to real-life situations. Each chapter would draw upon scholarly analysis, biographical information, and primary sources to build a thorough and accurate understanding of his contributions.
FAQs
1. Did Tim Keller write many articles for The Atlantic? While he didn't have a regular column, he contributed several pieces to The Atlantic, often engaging in public discourse on faith, culture, and society.
2. What were the main themes of Keller's Atlantic pieces? His contributions often focused on engaging secularism, understanding suffering, urban ministry, and the role of the church in society.
3. How did Keller engage with secularism? He adopted a thoughtful, respectful, and intellectually rigorous approach, addressing criticisms head-on while showcasing the strengths of a Christian worldview.
4. What was Keller's view of suffering? He acknowledged the reality of pain and explored the complexities of evil, offering a framework for finding meaning within suffering.
5. How did Keller's urban ministry influence his thought? His experience in New York City shaped his understanding of contextualized evangelism and the church's role in addressing urban challenges.
6. What role did Keller see for the church in society? He believed the church should be an active voice for justice, truth, and compassion, engaged in the public square.
7. What was unique about Keller's writing style? He combined intellectual depth with accessibility, making complex theological ideas relatable to a broad audience.
8. What is the lasting impact of Keller's work? He left a significant legacy influencing theological thought, urban ministry approaches, and interfaith dialogue.
9. Where can I find more information about Tim Keller's work? His books, sermons, and articles are readily available online and in bookstores. Resources like Redeemer Presbyterian Church's website offer further insights.
Related Articles:
1. Tim Keller on the Gospel and Culture: Explores Keller's approach to engaging the culture with the Gospel message.
2. Keller's Understanding of Suffering: A deeper dive into Keller's theological framework on suffering and its implications.
3. The Legacy of Tim Keller: An assessment of his long-term influence on Christian thought and practice.
4. Tim Keller and Urban Evangelism: Focuses on Keller’s ministry approach in urban contexts.
5. Keller's Dialogue with Secularism: Examines his methods of engaging with secular thinkers and perspectives.
6. Tim Keller on the Church and Society: Explores his views on the church’s role in public life.
7. Criticisms of Tim Keller's Theology: A balanced look at critiques of his theological framework.
8. Tim Keller's Impact on Young Adults: Analyzes his influence on a younger generation of Christians.
9. Comparing Tim Keller's Theology with other Contemporary Theologians: A comparative analysis with other significant theological voices.
tim keller atlantic article: On Death Timothy Keller, 2021-10-14 |
tim keller atlantic article: Hope in Times of Fear Timothy Keller, 2021-03-09 The Resurrection accounts of Jesus in the Gospels are the most dramatic and impactful stories ever told. One similarity unites each testimony--that none of his most loyal and steadfast followers could see it was him, back from the dead. The reason for this is at the very foundation of the Christian faith. She turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. (John 20:14) Hope in the Time of Fear is a book that unlocks the meaning of Jesus's resurrection for readers. Easter is considered the most solemn and important holiday for Christians. It is a time of spiritual rebirth and a time of celebrating the physical rebirth of Jesus after three days in the tomb. For his devoted followers, nothing could prepare them for the moment they met the resurrected Jesus. Each failed to recognize him. All of them physically saw him and yet did not spiritually truly see him. It was only when Jesus reached out and invited them to see who he truly was that their eyes were open. Here the central message of the Christian faith is revealed in a way only Timothy Keller could do it--filled with unshakable belief, piercing insight, and a profound new way to look at a story you think you know. After reading this book, the true meaning of Easter will no longer be unseen. |
tim keller atlantic article: Struggling with Evangelicalism Dan Stringer, 2021-11-16 Many today are discarding the evangelical label, and as a lifelong evangelical, Dan Stringer has wrestled with whether to stay or go. In this even-handed guide, he offers a thoughtful appreciation of evangelicalism's history, identity, and strengths, but also lament for its blind spots, showing how we can move forward with hope for our future together. |
tim keller atlantic article: Walking with God through Pain and Suffering Timothy Keller, 2013-10-01 New York Times bestselling author of The Prodigal Prophet Timothy Keller—whose books have sold millions of copies to both religious and secular readers—explores one of the most difficult questions we must answer in our lives: Why is there pain and suffering? Walking with God through Pain and Suffering is the definitive Christian book on why bad things happen and how we should respond to them. The question of why there is pain and suffering in the world has confounded every generation; yet there has not been a major book from a Christian perspective exploring why they exist for many years. The two classics in this area are When Bad Things Happen to Good People by Rabbi Harold S. Kushner, which was published more than thirty years ago, and C. S. Lewis’s The Problem of Pain, published more than seventy years ago. The great secular book on the subject, Elisabeth Ku¨bler-Ross’s On Death and Dying, was first published in 1969. It’s time for a new understanding and perspective, and who better to tackle this complex subject than Timothy Keller? As the pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Manhattan, Timothy Keller is known for the unique insights he shares, and his series of books has guided countless readers in their spiritual journeys. Walking with God through Pain and Suffering will bring a much-needed, fresh viewpoint on this important issue. |
tim keller atlantic article: The Reason for God Timothy Keller, 2008-02-14 A New York Times bestseller people can believe in—by a pioneer of the new urban Christians (Christianity Today) and the C.S. Lewis for the 21st century (Newsweek). Timothy Keller, the founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, addresses the frequent doubts that skeptics, and even ardent believers, have about religion. Using literature, philosophy, real-life conversations, and potent reasoning, Keller explains how the belief in a Christian God is, in fact, a sound and rational one. To true believers he offers a solid platform on which to stand their ground against the backlash to religion created by the Age of Skepticism. And to skeptics, atheists, and agnostics, he provides a challenging argument for pursuing the reason for God. |
tim keller atlantic article: The Meaning of Marriage Timothy Keller, Kathy Keller, 2013-11-05 Describes what marriage should be according to the Bible, arguing that marriage is a tool to bring individuals closer to God, and provides meaningful instruction on how to have a successful marriage. |
tim keller atlantic article: What Jesus Learned from Women James F. McGrath, 2021-02-26 Dehumanization has led to serious misinterpretation of the Gospels. On the one hand, Christians have often made Jesus so much more than human that it seemed inappropriate to ask about the influence other human beings had on him, male or female. On the other hand, women have been treated as less than fully human, their names omitted from stories and their voices and influence on Jesus neglected. When we ask the question this book does, what Jesus learned from women, puzzling questions that have frustrated readers of the Gospels throughout history suddenly find solutions. Weaving cutting edge biblical scholarship together with an element of historical fiction and a knack for writing for a general audience, James McGrath makes the stories of women in the New Testament come alive, and sheds fresh light on the figure of Jesus as well. This book is a must read for scholars, students, and anyone else interested in Jesus and/or in the role of ancient women in the context of their times. |
tim keller atlantic article: Confident Pluralism John D. Inazu, 2018-08-03 In the three years since Donald Trump first announced his plans to run for president, the United States seems to become more dramatically polarized and divided with each passing month. There are seemingly irresolvable differences in the beliefs, values, and identities of citizens across the country that too often play out in our legal system in clashes on a range of topics such as the tensions between law enforcement and minority communities. How can we possibly argue for civic aspirations like tolerance, humility, and patience in our current moment? In Confident Pluralism, John D. Inazu analyzes the current state of the country, orients the contemporary United States within its broader history, and explores the ways that Americans can—and must—strive to live together peaceably despite our deeply engrained differences. Pluralism is one of the founding creeds of the United States—yet America’s society and legal system continues to face deep, unsolved structural problems in dealing with differing cultural anxieties and differing viewpoints. Inazu not only argues that it is possible to cohabitate peacefully in this country, but also lays out realistic guidelines for our society and legal system to achieve the new American dream through civic practices that value toleration over protest, humility over defensiveness, and persuasion over coercion. With a new preface that addresses the election of Donald Trump, the decline in civic discourse after the election, the Nazi march in Charlottesville, and more, this new edition of Confident Pluralism is an essential clarion call during one of the most troubled times in US history. Inazu argues for institutions that can work to bring people together as well as political institutions that will defend the unprotected. Confident Pluralism offers a refreshing argument for how the legal system can protect peoples’ personal beliefs and differences and provides a path forward to a healthier future of tolerance, humility, and patience. |
tim keller atlantic article: Truth's Table Ekemini Uwan, Christina Edmondson, Michelle Higgins, 2022-04-26 FINALIST FOR THE NAACP IMAGE AWARD • A collection of essays and stories documenting the lived theology and spirituality we need to hear in order to lean into a more freeing, loving, and liberating faith—from the hosts of the beloved Truth’s Table podcast “The liberating work of Truth’s Table creates breathing room to finally have those conversations we’ve been needing to have.”—Morgan Harper Nichols, artist and poet Once upon a time, an activist, a theologian, and a psychologist walked into a group chat. Everything was laid out on the table: Dating. Politics. The Black church. Pop culture. Soon, other Black women began pulling up chairs to gather round. And so, the Truth’s Table podcast was born. In their literary debut, co-hosts Christina Edmondson, Michelle Higgins, and Ekemini Uwan offer stories by Black women and for Black women examining theology, politics, race, culture, and gender matters through a Christian lens. For anyone seeking to explore the spiritual dimensions of hot-button issues within the church, or anyone thirsty to deepen their faith, Truth’s Table provides exactly the survival guide we need, including: • Michelle Higgins’s unforgettable treatise revealing the way “racial reconciliation” is a spiritually bankrupt, empty promise that can often drain us of the ability to do real justice work • Ekemini Uwan’s exploration of Blackness as the image of God in the past, present, and future • Christina Edmondson’s reimagination of what a more just and liberating form of church discipline might look like—one that acknowledges and speaks to the trauma in the room These essays deliver a compelling theological re-education and pair the spiritual formation and political education necessary for Black women of faith. |
tim keller atlantic article: A Secular Age Charles Taylor, 2018-09-17 The place of religion in society has changed profoundly in the last few centuries, particularly in the West. In what will be a defining book for our time, Taylor takes up the question of what these changes mean, and what, precisely, happens when a society becomes one in which faith is only one human possibility among others. |
tim keller atlantic article: Married for God Christopher Ash, 2016-08-15 A Good Marriage Begins with God. It is our natural tendency to seek personal happiness and satisfaction in marriage. We often give our own needs, wants, and goals first priority. But what is God's design for our marriages? With clarity and conviction, Christopher Ash turns us away from marriage for ourselves and toward marriage in the service of God. With practical applications for everyday life, Ash shows us God's purposes and patterns for every part of the marriage relationship. By realigning our hopes, expectations, and goals for marriage according to the Bible, we will discover the deep joy and lasting fulfillment that comes from a God-centered marriage. |
tim keller atlantic article: Where Prayer Becomes Real Kyle Strobel, John Coe, 2021-03-02 If we're honest, most of us feel bored, distracted, or discouraged in prayer. We look for resources to give us the right words or teach us the right technique and are disappointed when they don't seem to help. What we fail to realize is that prayer isn't a place for us to be good or right, and it isn't a place for us to perform or prove our worth. It's a place for us to be honest, present, and known--a place for us to offer ourselves and receive God. Spiritual formation experts Kyle Strobel and John Coe want to show you what you've been missing when it comes to prayer. In this down-to-earth book, they show you how to fearlessly draw near to a holy God, pray without ceasing (and without posturing), and delight in the experience of being fully known and fully loved. Each chapter ends with prayer projects or practices to help you see a difference in your prayer life, starting now. |
tim keller atlantic article: Enough about Me Jen Oshman, 2020-02-28 Women today feel a constant pressure to improve themselves and just never feel like they're enough. All too often, they live their daily lives disheartened, disillusioned, and disappointed. That's because joy doesn't come from a new self-improvement strategy; it comes from rooting their identity in who God says they are and what he has done on their behalf. This book calls women to look away from themselves in order to find the abundant life God offers them—contrasting the cultural emphasis on personal improvement and empowerment with what the Scriptures say about a life rooted, built up, and established in the gospel. |
tim keller atlantic article: Faithful Presence Bill Haslam, 2021-05-25 Two-term governor of Tennessee Bill Haslam reveals how faith--too often divisive and contentious--can be a redemptive and unifying presence in the public square. As a former mayor and governor, Bill Haslam has long been at the center of politics and policy on local, state, and federal levels. And he has consistently been guided by his faith, which influenced his actions on issues ranging from capital punishment to pardons, health care to abortion, welfare to free college tuition. Yet the place of faith in public life has been hotly debated since our nation's founding, and the relationship of church and state remains contentious to this day--and for good reason. Too often, Bill Haslam argues, Christians end up shaping their faith to fit their politics rather than forming their politics to their faith. They seem to forget their calling is to be used by God in service of others rather than to use God to reach their own desires and ends. Faithful Presence calls for a different way. Drawing upon his years of public service, Haslam casts a remarkable vision for the redemptive role of faith in politics while examining some of the most complex issues of our time, including: partisanship in our divided era; the most essential character trait for a public servant; how we cannot escape legislating morality; the answer to perpetual outrage; and how to think about the separation of church and state. For Christians ready to be salt and light, as well as for those of a different faith or no faith at all, Faithful Presence argues that faith can be a redemptive, healing presence in the public square--as it must be, if our nation is to flourish. |
tim keller atlantic article: What's Best Next Matt Perman, 2014-03-04 By anchoring your understanding of productivity in God's plan, What's Best Next gives you a practical approach for increasing your effectiveness in everything you do. There are a lot of myths about productivity--what it means to get things done and how to accomplish work that really matters. In our current era of innovation and information overload, it may feel harder than ever to understand the meaning of work or to have a sense of vocation or calling. So how do you get more of the right things done without confusing mere activity for actual productivity? Matt Perman has spent his career helping people learn how to do work in a gospel-centered and effective way. What's Best Next explains his approach to unlocking productivity and fulfillment in work by showing how faith relates to work, even in our everyday grind. What's Best Next is packed with biblical and theological insight and practical counsel that you can put into practice today, such as: How to create a mission statement for your life that's actually practicable. How to delegate to people in a way that really empowers them. How to overcome time killers like procrastination, interruptions, and multitasking by turning them around and making them work for you. How to process workflow efficiently and get your email inbox to zero every day. How to have peace of mind without needing to have everything under control. How generosity is actually the key to unlocking productivity. This expanded edition includes: a new chapter on productivity in a fallen world a new appendix on being more productive with work that requires creative thinking. Productivity isn't just about getting more things done. It's about getting the right things done--the things that count, make a difference, and move the world forward. You can learn how to do work that matters and how to do it well. |
tim keller atlantic article: The Divine Magician Peter Rollins, 2015-01-20 In this mind-bending exploration of traditional Christianity, firebrand Peter Rollins turns the tables on conventional wisdom, offering a fresh perspective focused on a life filled with love. Peter Rollins knows one magic trick—now, make sure you watch closely. It has three parts: the Pledge, the Turn, and the Prestige. In Divine Magician, each part comes into play as he explores a radical view of interacting with the world in love. Rollins argues that the Christian event, reenacted in the Eucharist, is indeed a type of magic trick, one that is echoed in the great vanishing acts performed by magicians throughout the ages. In this trick, a divine object is presented to us (the Pledge), disappears (the Turn), and then returns (the Prestige). But just as the returned object in a classic vanishing act is not really the same object—but another that looks the same—so this book argues that the return of God is not simply the return of what was initially presented, but rather a radical way of interacting with the world. In an effort to unearth the power of Christianity, Rollins uses this framework to explain the mystery of faith that has been lost on the church. In the same vein as Rob Bell’s bestseller Love Wins, this book pushes the boundaries of theology, presenting a stirring vision at the forefront of re-imagined modern Christianity. As a dynamic speaker as he is in writing, Rollins examines traditional religious notions from a revolutionary and refreshingly original perspective. At the heart of his message is a life lived through profound love. Just perhaps, says Rollins, the radical message found in Christianity might be one that the church can show allegiance to. |
tim keller atlantic article: Five Views on Biblical Inerrancy Zondervan,, 2013-12-10 The inerrancy of the Bible--the belief that the Bible is without error--is often a contentious topic among mainstream Christianity. Like other titles in the Counterpoints collection, this volume gives those interested in theology the tools they need to draw informed conclusions on debated issues by showcasing the range of positions in a way that helps readers understand the perspectives--especially where and why they diverge. Each essay in Five Views on Biblical Inerrancy considers: The present context, viability, and relevance for the contemporary evangelical Christian witness. Whether and to what extent Scripture teaches its own inerrancy. The position's assumed or implied understandings of the nature of Scripture, God, and truth. Three difficult biblical texts: one that concerns intra-canonical contradictions, one that raises questions of theological plurality, and one that concerns historical authenticity. Five Views on Biblical Inerrancy serves not only as a single-volume resource for surveying the current debate, but also as a catalyst both for understanding and advancing the conversation further. Contributors include Al Mohler, Kevin Vanhoozer, Michael Bird, Peter Enns, and John Franke. |
tim keller atlantic article: Atheist Overreach Christian Smith, 2018-09-05 In recent years atheism has become ever more visible, acceptable, and influential. Atheist apologists have become increasingly vociferous and confident in their claims: that a morality requiring benevolence towards all and universal human rights need not be grounded in religion; that modern science disproves the existence of God; and that there is nothing innately religious about human beings. In Atheist Overreach, Christian Smith takes a look at the evidence and arguments, and explains why we ought to be skeptical of these atheists' claims about morality, science, and human nature. He does not argue that atheism is necessarily wrong, but rather that its advocates are advancing crucial claims that are neither rationally defensible nor realistic. Their committed worldview feeds unhelpful arguments and contributes to the increasing polarization of today's political landscape. Everyone involved in the theism-atheism debates, in shared moral reflection, and in the public consumption of the findings of science should be committed to careful reasoning and rigorous criticism. This book provides readers with the information they need to participate more knowledgably in debates about atheism and what it means for our society. |
tim keller atlantic article: After Heaven Robert Wuthnow, 1998 A consideration of the evolution of American spirituality over the past fifty years. |
tim keller atlantic article: Fault Lines Voddie T. Baucham, 2021-04-06 The Ground Is Moving The death of George Floyd at the hands of police in the summer of 2020 shocked the nation. As riots rocked American cities, Christians affirmed from the pulpit and in social media that “black lives matter” and that racial justice “is a gospel issue.” But what if there is more to the social justice movement than those Christians understand? Even worse: What if they’ve been duped into preaching ideas that actually oppose the Kingdom of God? In this powerful book, Voddie Baucham, a preacher, professor, and cultural apologist, explains the sinister worldview behind the social justice movement and Critical Race Theory—revealing how it already has infiltrated some seminaries, leading to internal denominational conflict, canceled careers, and lost livelihoods. Like a fault line, it threatens American culture in general—and the evangelical church in particular. Whether you’re a layperson who has woken up in a strange new world and wonders how to engage sensitively and effectively in the conversation on race or a pastor who is grappling with a polarized congregation, this book offers the clarity and understanding to either hold your ground or reclaim it. |
tim keller atlantic article: The Evangelicals Frances FitzGerald, 2017-04-04 * Winner of the 2017 National Book Critics Circle Award * National Book Award Finalist * Time magazine Top 10 Nonfiction Book of the Year * New York Times Notable Book * Publishers Weekly Best Books of 2017 This “epic history” (The Boston Globe) from Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Frances FitzGerald is the first to tell the powerful, dramatic story of the Evangelical movement in America—from the Puritan era to the 2016 election. “We have long needed a fair-minded overview of this vitally important religious sensibility, and FitzGerald has now provided it” (The New York Times Book Review). The evangelical movement began in the revivals of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, known in America as the Great Awakenings. A populist rebellion against the established churches, it became the dominant religious force in the country. During the nineteenth century white evangelicals split apart, first North versus South, and then, modernist versus fundamentalist. After World War II, Billy Graham attracted enormous crowds and tried to gather all Protestants under his big tent, but the civil rights movement and the social revolution of the sixties drove them apart again. By the 1980s Jerry Falwell and other southern televangelists, such as Pat Robertson, had formed the Christian right. Protesting abortion and gay rights, they led the South into the Republican Party, and for thirty-five years they were the sole voice of evangelicals to be heard nationally. Eventually a younger generation proposed a broader agenda of issues, such as climate change, gender equality, and immigration reform. Evangelicals now constitute twenty-five percent of the American population, but they are no longer monolithic in their politics. They range from Tea Party supporters to social reformers. Still, with the decline of religious faith generally, FitzGerald suggests that evangelical churches must embrace ethnic minorities if they are to survive. “A well-written, thought-provoking, and deeply researched history that is impressive for its scope and level of detail” (The Wall Street Journal). Her “brilliant book could not have been more timely, more well-researched, more well-written, or more necessary” (The American Scholar). |
tim keller atlantic article: The God Who Is There D. A. Carson, 2010-07-01 It can no longer be assumed that most people--or even most Christians--have a basic understanding of the Bible. Many don't know the difference between the Old and New Testament, and even the more well-known biblical figures are often misunderstood. It is getting harder to talk about Jesus accurately and compellingly because listeners have no proper context with which to understand God's story of redemption. In this basic introduction to faith, D. A. Carson takes seekers, new Christians, and small groups through the big story of Scripture. He helps readers to know what they believe and why they believe it. The companion leader's guide helps evangelistic study groups, small groups, and Sunday school classes make the best use of this book in group settings. |
tim keller atlantic article: Hope Has Its Reasons Rebecca Manley Pippert, 2001-06-01 Rebecca Manley Pippert invites you to join her on a journey exploring the region between faith and unbelief where hope and doubt mingle. Citing freely from her own experiences she addresses the big questions of life including questions about our significance, meaning, love, life and truth. |
tim keller atlantic article: C. S. Lewis' Letters to Children Clive Staples Lewis, 1996-06-03 A collection of letters from the English author of the Narnia books to a variety of children. |
tim keller atlantic article: Summa Theologiae Saint Thomas (Aquinas), 1947 |
tim keller atlantic article: Donald Builds the Wall Eric Metaxas, 2019-09-17 This hilarious follow-up to 2018's Donald Drains the Swamp continues the story of Donald the Caveman—inspired by you-know-who—as he works tirelessly to save his kingdom by constructing a big, beautiful wall. Written by #1 national bestselling author and humorist Eric Metaxas and illustrated by award-winning artist Tim Raglin, Donald Builds the Wall is the children's book and political parable that America needs right now. |
tim keller atlantic article: Generous Justice Timothy Keller, 2012-08-07 Keller explores a life of justice empowered by an experience of grace. |
tim keller atlantic article: The Crucified King Jeremy R. Treat, 2014-05-27 The kingdom of God and the atonement are two of the most important themes in all of Scripture. Tragically, theologians have often either set the two at odds or focused on one to the complete neglect of the other. In The Crucified King, Jeremy Treat demonstrates that Scripture presents a mutually enriching relationship between the kingdom and atonement that draws significantly from the story of Israel and culminates in the crucifixion of Christ the king. As Israel’s messiah, he holds together the kingdom and the cross by bringing God’s reign on earth through his atoning death. The kingdom is the ultimate goal of the cross, and the cross is the means by which the kingdom comes. Jesus’ death is not the failure of his messianic ministry, nor simply the prelude to his royal glory, but is the apex of his kingdom mission. The cross is the throne from which he rules and establishes his kingdom. Using a holistic approach that brings together the insights of biblical and systematic theology, this book demonstrates not only that the kingdom and the cross are inseparable, but how they are integrated in Scripture and theology. |
tim keller atlantic article: America and the Challenges of Religious Diversity Robert Wuthnow, 2005 Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and adherents of other non-Western religions have become a significant presence in the United States in recent years. Yet many Americans continue to regard the United States as a Christian society. How are we adapting to the new diversity? Are we willing to do the hard work required to achieve genuine religious pluralism? Award-winning author Robert Wuthnow tackles these and other difficult questions surrounding religious diversity. Wuthnow contends that responses to religious diversity are fundamentally deeper than polite discussions about civil liberties and tolerance would suggest. Rather, he writes, religious diversity strikes at the very core of our personal and national theologies. Only by understanding this important dimension of our culture will we be able to move toward a more reflective religious pluralism. -- From publisher's description. |
tim keller atlantic article: Center Church Timothy Keller, 2012-09-04 Practical and Gospel-centered thoughts on how to have a fruitful ministry by one of America's leading and most beloved pastor. Many church leaders are struggling to adapt to a culture that values individuality above loyalty to a group or institution. There have been so many church growth and effective ministry books in the past few decades that it's hard to know where to start or which ones will provide useful and honest insight. Based on over twenty years of ministry in New York City, Timothy Keller takes a unique approach that measures a ministry's success neither by numbers nor purely by the faithfulness of its leaders, but on the biblical grounds of fruitfulness. Center Church outlines a balanced theological vision for ministry organized around three core commitments: Gospel-centered: The gospel of grace in Jesus Christ changes everything, from our hearts to our community to the world. It completely reshapes the content, tone, and strategy of all that we do. City-centered: With a positive approach toward our culture, we learn to affirm that cities are wonderful, strategic, and under-served places for gospel ministry. Movement-centered: Instead of building our own tribe, we seek the prosperity and peace of our community as we are led by the Holy Spirit. Between a pastor's doctrinal beliefs and ministry practices should be a well-conceived vision for how to bring the gospel to bear on the particular cultural setting and historical moment. This is something more practical than just doctrine but much more theological than how-to steps for carrying out a ministry. Once this vision is in place, it leads church leaders to make good decisions on how to worship, disciple, evangelize, serve, and engage culture in their field of ministry—whether in a city, suburb, or small town. — Tim Keller, Core Church |
tim keller atlantic article: The Measure of a Man Gene A. Getz, 2016-11-01 More Than a Million Copies Have Been Sold of this Powerful Book for Men, Now Revised for a New Generation For forty years, The Measure of a Man has taught hundreds of thousands of men around the world how to live according to God's direction--faithfully, lovingly, and spiritually. Now revised this classic guide to biblical masculinity is poised to impact a new generation of men. True masculinity is not measured by the strength of a man, but by these twenty biblical guidelines drawn from the Apostle Paul's letters to his young protégés Timothy and Titus. Inspiring, encouraging, and practical, this book shows men how they can reach God's standards as fathers, husbands, and mentors to other men. This updated edition includes QR codes that take the reader to online video resources for further study. |
tim keller atlantic article: Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes E. Randolph Richards, Brandon J. O'Brien, 2012-07-31 Brandon O'Brien and Randy Richards shed light on the ways that Western readers often misunderstand the cultural dynamics of the Bible. Identifying nine areas where commonplaces of modern Western thought diverge with the text, the authors ask us to reconsider long-held opinions about our most beloved book. |
tim keller atlantic article: The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind Mark A. Noll, 2022-03-15 Winner of the Christianity Today Book of the Year Award (1995) “The scandal of the evangelical mind is that there is not much of an evangelical mind.” So begins this award-winning intellectual history and critique of the evangelical movement by one of evangelicalism’s most respected historians. Unsparing in his indictment, Mark Noll asks why the largest single group of religious Americans—who enjoy increasing wealth, status, and political influence—have contributed so little to rigorous intellectual scholarship. While nourishing believers in the simple truths of the gospel, why have so many evangelicals failed to sustain a serious intellectual life and abandoned the universities, the arts, and other realms of “high” culture? Over twenty-five years since its original publication, The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind has turned out to be prescient and perennially relevant. In a new preface, Noll lays out his ongoing personal frustrations with this situation, and in a new afterword he assesses the state of the scandal—showing how white evangelicals’ embrace of Trumpism, their deepening distrust of science, and their frequent forays into conspiratorial thinking have coexisted with surprisingly robust scholarship from many with strong evangelical connections. |
tim keller atlantic article: The Presbyterian Controversy Bradley J. Longfield, 1991 Longfield explores a bitter theological controversy that wracked the Presbyterian Church in the 1920s and 30s. By examining the lives and thought of six of the major protagonists he seeks to provide a fuller understanding of the religious and cultural issues in the struggle. |
tim keller atlantic article: Partners in Christ John G. Stackhouse Jr., 2015-10-08 When it comes to understanding what Scripture says about men and women, those on both sides of the debate can and do marshal strong evidence from the Bible. Does the Bible contradict itself then? Not so. John Stackhouse describes the single approach in Scripture that guides us with clear direction and moves us beyond the impasse in this important debate. |
tim keller atlantic article: Mostly What God Does Savannah Guthrie, 2024-02-20 Guthrie persuasively renders the evolution of a hard-won religious belief that makes room for imperfection and does not require us to ignore... the sorrows we experience or the unjustness we see but to believe past it. This openhearted offering inspires. - Publishers Weekly Mostly what God does is love you. If we could believe this, really believe this, how different would we be? How different would our lives be? How different would our world be? If you ever struggle with your connection to God (or whether you even feel connected to a faith at all!), you're not alone. Especially in our modern world, with its relentless, never-ending news cycle, we can all grapple with such questions. Do we do that alone, with despair and resignation? Or do we make sense of it with God, and with hope? In these uncertain times, could believing in the power of divine love make the most sense? In this collection of essays, Savannah Guthrie shares why she believes it does. Unspooling personal stories from her own joys and sorrows as a daughter, mother, wife, friend, and professional journalist, the award-winning TODAY show coanchor and New York Times bestselling author explores the place of faith in everyday life. Sharing hard-won wisdom forged from mountaintop triumphs, crushing failures, and even the mundane moments of day-to-day living, Mostly What God Does reveals the transformative ways that belief in God helps us discover real hope for this life and beyond. A perfect companion to your morning cup of coffee, this incisive volume—not a memoir but a beautiful tapestry of reflections crafted as a spiritual manual—includes: a fresh, biblically rooted look at six essentials of faith: love, presence, grace, hope, gratitude, and purpose; an honest exploration of questions, doubts, and fears about the love of God; a dose of encouragement for the faith-full, the faith-curious, and the faith-less; and …and much more. This deeply personal collection is designed to engage the practical ways that God loves you—not just the world, but you—and to inspire you to venture down a path of faith that is authentic, hopeful, destiny-shaping, and ultimately life-changing. |
tim keller atlantic article: Did America Have a Christian Founding? Mark David Hall, 2019-10-29 A distinguished professor debunks the assertion that America's Founders were deists who desired the strict separation of church and state and instead shows that their political ideas were profoundly influenced by their Christian convictions. In 2010, David Mark Hall gave a lecture at the Heritage Foundation entitled Did America Have a Christian Founding? His balanced and thoughtful approach to this controversial question caused a sensation. C-SPAN televised his talk, and an essay based on it has been downloaded more than 300,000 times. In this book, Hall expands upon this essay, making the airtight case that America's Founders were not deists. He explains why and how the Founders' views are absolutely relevant today, showing that they did not create a godless Constitution; that even Jefferson and Madison did not want a high wall separating church and state; that most Founders believed the government should encourage Christianity; and that they embraced a robust understanding of religious liberty for biblical and theological reasons. This compelling and utterly persuasive book will convince skeptics and equip believers and conservatives to defend the idea that Christian thought was crucial to the nation's founding--and that this benefits all of us, whatever our faith (or lack of faith). |
tim keller atlantic article: Sacred Fire Ronald Rolheiser, 2017-03-14 When one reaches the highest degree of human maturity, one has only one question left: How can I be helpful?—TERESA OF ÁVILA Beloved author Ronald Rolheiser continues his search for an accessible and penetrating Christian spirituality in this highly anticipated follow-up to the contemporary classic, The Holy Longing. With his trademark acuity, wit, and thoughtfulness, Rolheiser shows how identifying and embracing discipleship will lead to new heights of spiritual awareness and maturity. In this new book, Rolheiser takes us on a journey through the dark night of the senses and of the spirit. Here, we experience the full gamut of human life, pleasure and fervor, disillusionment and boredom. But, as Rolheiser explains, when we embrace the struggle and yearning to know God we can experience too a profound re-understanding to our daily lives. “What lies beyond the essentials, the basics?” Rolheiser writes. “Where do we go once some of the basic questions in our lives have been answered, or at least brought to enough peace that our focus can shift away from ourselves to others? Where do we go once the basic questions in our lives are no longer the restless questions of youthful insecurity and loneliness? Who am I? Who loves me? How will my life turn out? Where do we go once the basic question in life becomes: How can I give my life away more purely, and more meaningfully? How do I live beyond my own heartaches, headaches, and obsessions so as to help make other peoples’ lives more meaningful? The intent of this book is to try to address exactly those questions: How can we live less self- centered, more mature lives? What constitutes deep maturity and how do we reach that place? And, not unimportantly, what constitutes a more adult, Christian discipleship? What constitutes a truly mature following of Jesus?” As the poet Rainer Maria Rilke suggests, “Live the questions now.” In Sacred Fire, Rolheiser’s deeply affecting prose urges us on in pursuit of the most holy of all passions—a deep and lasting intimacy with God. |
tim keller atlantic article: Analog Church Jay Y. Kim, 2020-03-31 As our culture begins to reckon with the limits of a digital world, it's time for the church to do the same. In our efforts to stay relevant in our digital age, have we begun to move away from transcendence? Pastor Jay Kim grapples with the ramifications of a digital church, from worship and Christian community to how we engage Scripture. |
tim keller atlantic article: The Death of Politics Peter Wehner, 2019-06-04 The New York Times opinion writer, media commentator, outspoken Republican and Christian critic of the Trump presidency offers a spirited defense of politics and its virtuous and critical role in maintaining our democracy and what we must do to save it before it is too late. “Any nation that elects Donald Trump to be its president has a remarkably low view of politics.” Frustrated and feeling betrayed, Americans have come to loathe politics with disastrous results, argues Peter Wehner. In this timely manifesto, the veteran of three Republican administrations and man of faith offers a reasoned and persuasive argument for restoring “politics” as a worthy calling to a cynical and disillusioned generation of Americans. Wehner has long been one of the leading conservative critics of Donald Trump and his effect on the Republican Party. In this impassioned book, he makes clear that unless we overcome the despair that has caused citizens to abandon hope in the primary means for improving our world—the political process—we will not only fall victim to despots but hasten the decline of what has truly made America great. Drawing on history and experience, he reminds us of the hard lessons we have learned about how we rule ourselves—why we have checks and balances, why no one is above the law, why we defend the rights of even those we disagree with. Wehner believes we can turn the country around, but only if we abandon our hatred and learn to appreciate and honor the unique and noble American tradition of doing “politics.” If we want the great American experiment to continue and to once again prosper, we must once more take up the responsibility each and every one of us as citizens share. |