It is the contention of this book that the majority of propositions perceived as
cultural compromise (heresy) are, in fact, merely a step towards effective
contextualisation rather than a settled formulation. This being the case, an understanding
and application of Hegel's three-step dialectic will serve to hasten and enhance the
process and minimise the accompanying conflict. Accordingly, it is the responsibility of
ecclesial leadership to personally model the dialectical process and to equip their
members to participate. It concludes with four essential principles of a dialectical
strategy: advance preparation, training in critical assessment, commitment to communal
synthesis and the acceptance that this is a continuing need.
This book will be meaningfully used by the scholarly world -- the Academics who are
involved in educating the ecclesial leadership; the Students of theology, ministry, church
history and Intercultural (mission) studies; Ecclesial Leadership - Pastors, Ministeries
and their Superiors; and above all the Christian population in general.
Contents
Introduction
1. The Church-Culture Interface
2. The Nature of Heresy
3. The Dialectic and Enculturation
4. Dim Orthodoxy and Clement of Alexandria
5. Erasmus, Luther & Melanchthon
6. Postmodernism and the Emerging Church
Conclusion
Bibliography
Index
Rev. Warren G. Ison [Certificate IV in Training and Assessment,
Diploma of Teaching, Bachelor of Ministry, Master of Ministry and PhD (candidate)] has
spent more than 30 years in leadership ministry, including army education officer, school
teacher, Bible college lecturer, youth pastor, senior pastor, CEO of a welfare
organisation, teaching elder, administrator and denominational leader. He is currently the
Head of the Perth Campus of Tabor College in Australia. Warren is married to Ann and they
have three married children and six grandchildren.
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