Christ and the World of Religions

With an appreciative and sensitive hand, Joe Thomas has located and interpreted Lesslie Newbigin's theology of religious plurality and his vision for dialogue among people of diverse faiths. This book is a benchmark for all that follows. --George R. Hunsberger, Professor of Missiology, Western Theological Seminary This study identifies and expounds the centrality of Jesus on which Bishop Newbigin based his thinking. Dr. Thomas provides a sure and insightful guide to Newbigin's thought on the finality of Jesus Christ. --The Most Reverend Dr. Eliud Wabukala, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya Professor Thomas offers here an excellent account of Lesslie Newbigin's theology of interreligious dialogue and of gospel and culture, all founded and centered firmly in Jesus Christ. This is a useful contribution to the study of Newbigin, an important ecumenical Christian statesman and theologian of the twentieth century. --Harold G. Wells, Professor Emeritus, Emmanuel College, University of Toronto This landmark book is essential to the understanding of the nature of Christian mission in a pluralistic world. Dr. Thomas has a winsome style with penetrating insight. I cannot imagine it as anything other than the definitive benchmark work on Newbigin's theology. Accessibly written, this book will serve as a valuable resource for anyone seriously interested in the theology of interreligious dialogue. --The Rt. Rev. Dr. Bill Atwood, Bishop of the International Diocese, Anglican Church in North America Lesslie Newbigin has much wisdom to offer Christians in the twenty-first century. Dr. Thomas has done a commendable job of keeping this legacy alive. In our peripatetic age cultures and religions interact in every sphere of life--and sometimes collide. This book provides a well-researched analysis of Newbigin's theology, and explains his approach to mission, Christian unity, and principled inter-religious dialogue. --Patricia J. Harrison, PhD (University of Queensland), Research Supervisor, London School of Theology, Middlesex University