Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #271858 in Books
• Published on: 2007-02-26
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 264 pages

Synopsis
In "Raging with Compassion", Swinton argues for a practical theodicy, one embodied in the life and practices of the Christian community. This practicality does not seek to provide an explanation for the existence of evil, but rather presents ways in which evil and suffering can be resisted and transformed. This, he insists, will enable Christians to live faithfully with unanswered questions as they await God's redemption of the whole creation. Swinton explores essential practices of redemption - lament, forgiveness, thoughtfulness, hospitality, and friendship - drawing out their implications for the faithful resistance of evil. Enhanced by case studies from current events and by Swinton's own experience as a pastor and mental health nurse, "Raging with Compassion" seeks to inspire fresh Christian responses and modes of practice in our broken, fallen world.

Customer Reviews

A much-needed voice in the theodicy debate...
'Raging With Compassion' is a thoroughly practical book addressing the theological problem of the existence of evil. The main thesis of the book is that evil is not primarily a philosophical conundrum that must be 'solved', but rather a real life experience which demands a response. It suggests that the important question is not "why does evil exist?", but rather, "what does evil do?"

The book opens with a discussion of the current debate in the area of theodicy, and highlights the problems that this debate has thrown up. Chief among these is the fact that the philosophical abstraction of the debate means it has little relevance for those actually experiencing suffering. Swinton then discusses how evil is defined, and offers his own definition of it. From here, he goes on to outline various practices that Christians might engage in, to embody a 'practical theodicy'. The practices highlighted are those of lament, forgiveness, thoughtfulness, friendship and hospitality. Swinton suggests that these offer real ways in which evil can be resisted and transformed.

Certainly this book is unlike other books on the problem of evil. It does not explain away evil - an endeavour which Swinton suggests is ultimately futile (and having read a number of theodicies, notably Roth's and Hick's, I would tend to agree with him). Rather it acknowledges evil's existence, and puts forward practical ways in which to resist and transform it.

For those working in pastoral ministries, healthcare professionals or even those just interested in the question of evil, this book is invaluable reading. It is intellectually robust, whilst maintaining pastoral sensitivity and a down-to-earth practicality which makes it stand out in this field.