Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #200569 in Books
• Published on: 2006-02-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 256 pages

Synopsis
We are at our human best when we give and forgive. But we live in a world in which it makes little sense to do either one. In our increasingly graceless culture, where can we find the motivation to give? And how do we learn to forgive when forgiving seems counterintuitive or even futile? A deeply personal yet profoundly thoughtful book, "Free of Charge" explores these questions- and the further questions to which they give rise - in light of God's generosity and Christ's sacrifice for us. Miroslav Volf draws from popular culture as well as from a wealth of literary and theological sources, weaving his rich reflections around the sturdy frame of Paul's vision of God's grace and Martin Luther's interpretation of that vision. Blending the best of theology and spirituality, he encourages us to echo in our own lives God's generous giving and forgiving. A fresh examination of two practices at the heart of the Christian faith giving and forgiving the Archbishop of Canterbury's Lenten study book for 2006 is at the same time an introduction to Christianity. Even more, it is a compelling invitation to Christian faith as a way of life.

"Miroslav Volf, one of the most celebrated theologians of our day, offers us a unique interweaving of intense reflection, vivid and painfully personal stories and sheer celebration of the giving God ...I cannot remember having read a better account of what it means to say that Jesus suffered for us in our place." - Dr Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury.

Customer Reviews

Good Discipline
I purchased this title and decided on the strength of the recommendations on the back cover to read it as part of my Lenten discipline for 2006. In contrast to some of Volf's other books which are stimulating but hard work this one is remarkably user friendly. No sooner had I finished the Prelude than I knew I was going to be hooked, and so it has turned out. It is easy to read BUT the challenges he presents us with are something else altogether. It is hard to live gracefully in a culture stripped of grace, but the glory of this book is that it keeps holding the challenge before you in such a way that by grace you will want to have your life changed into the likeness of Christ.

A modern essential
I'd spent a few weeks back in college ploughing through Volf's profound Exclusion and Embrace so when I heard about this book I placed my order in advance.

I wasn't disappointed in any way. This book is eminentally readable but not less deep than Volf's other books. Its written in clear, jargon free language so I would happily share it with non-Christian friends. It is appropriately vulnerable as the Croat theologian shares from his own experience. Most importantly, it clearly illustrates again the radical heart of Christianity in the Grace offered by Jesus. The Conversation With A Skeptic at the end of the book is excellent.

I heartily recommend it to every reader.