Select language, opens an overlay

Comment

A Change of Heart

a Personal and Theological Memoir
Community comment are the opinions of contributing users. These comment do not represent the opinions of King County Library System.
Feb 28, 2016PMDubuc rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
My interest and enjoyment in reading this book seemed to grow the further I got into it. This is a first half/second half of life story that is likely to be unique and fascinating for anyone who is familiar with the history of Christian churches in the USA in the 20th century, particularly since 1950. I've come to see the author as a modern hero of the faith and a model of Christian spiritual maturity that seems quite rare. During his first 40 years of life, Thomas Oden devoted is professional activity as a writer and teacher to promoting the theological and political agenda of the leadership of mainline denominations and seminaries which came to be known as the "social gospel." His early writing and teaching has been a significant influence for a current candidate for President of the USA. During midlife, Oden experienced a change of heart inspired by the excesses of the ecumenical movement and friendships formed with more conservative theologians and religious leaders; one Jewish rabbi in particular. His journey from that point on is characterized by a return to what he calls "Classic Christianity," the consensual teaching, practice and spirituality of the Christian Church in its first eight centuries. Classic Christianity, having stood the test of 20 centuries, has more unifying potential among Christians than the modern ecumenism of the last 100 years. Oden's second half of life work has been devoted to helping contemporary Christian students, teachers and leaders become more familiar with the writing and teaching of ancient Christian Church. He has also also devoted much time and energy more recently to helping African Christians discover appreciate their ancient heritage. The oldest and most influential Christian churches were in northern and eastern Africa. Thomas Oden will leave a tremendous legacy of hope for ancient-future Christianity. His prolific work of writing and editing in the last 40 years are a great gift to all who would gain a deeper understanding of the historic Christian faith. He not only has a great mind but also has a great heart. Though his change of heart at midlife caused many problems for him among those who did not understand it, there isn't a hint of bitterness, condescension, or anger directed at anyone in this book. Unlike many who have experienced a radical change of heart in life, Oden hasn't made this memoir into a repudiating attack on his former views and those who still hold them. He shows nothing but appreciation and respect for everyone he has worked with during his whole life. He sees his first 40 years as valuable experience that prepared him for all he has come to do and love since. May the seeds he has sown grow far and wide.