Understanding Faith Formation: Theological, Congregational, and Global Dimensions by Mark Maddix, Jonathan Kim, and James Estep Jr. Baker Academic. Grand Rapids, MI, 2020. Total pages: 144.
You might find the book title inviting or intimidating. The word “faith” certainly grabs the attention of many youth and young adult leaders. “Understanding” might sound promising or hollow—perhaps based on your own experience from previous proclamations promising an understanding of faith. But that word “formation” scares some while it entices others. The subtitle grabs academics, but might lose others. The three co-authors all completed their doctorates at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and all three are ministry professors and/or administrators in various evangelical schools. Consider this an academic perspective on growing faith, from an evangelical perspective. The book isn’t long, and it’s not a difficult read; but you will need to focus your attention while reading it. They stated their target group as educators, pastors, and church leaders, to provide understanding and to practice their faith more deeply. This sounds hopeful and helpful.
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