Exploring the positive impact of religious beliefs, the book examines how our understanding of God influences both mental and physical health. It contrasts the detrimental views of God as a threat with a more uplifting perspective that sees God as a source of unconditional grace. The author argues that these theological beliefs shape our outlook on life, ultimately affecting our well-being. By highlighting the transformative power of a positive conception of God, the work offers insights into fostering healthier mindsets and lifestyles.
Exploring the integral role of sexuality in human life, this book delves into how our libido influences our experiences, thoughts, and spiritual longings. It emphasizes that every aspect of life is shaped by our awareness of gender and sensuality, suggesting that a lack of awareness may stem from past wounds. Rather than a manual, it offers insights into the spirituality of sex, aiming to enhance understanding and appreciation of sexual experiences. Suitable for all, it invites readers to embrace their humanity and deepen their relationships, regardless of belief systems.
The exploration of spirituality reveals a deep yearning for meaning beyond traditional organized religion. Many individuals find institutional practices unsatisfying, seeking instead a more personal and profound connection with the divine and others. The author delves into the complexities of spiritual experiences, addressing the fundamental questions of existence, intimacy, and truth. Through a thoughtful analysis, he illuminates the innate human desire to reflect on and share meaningful encounters with God and relationships, offering insights into our spiritual nature.
Focusing on the evolving landscape of psychedelics, this book addresses a variety of policy issues linked to their diverse treatments and applications. Edited by leading scholars, it offers insights into the implications of psychedelic practices, exploring both contemporary challenges and advancements in the field.
Exploring the Bible's perspective on controversial topics such as homosexuality and polygamy, this book delves into its teachings regarding various sexual behaviors, including those considered perverted or criminal. It questions whether sex is inherently wrong when not aimed at procreation, offering insights into the complexities of biblical interpretations on sexuality and morality. The discussion challenges readers to reflect on the nuances of sexual ethics within a religious context.
Focusing on the intersection of science and religion, this book serves as a vital resource for interdisciplinary research on the experience of feeling called to a specific life path or vocation. It explores the complexities of this phenomenon, offering insights that bridge various fields of study.
The exploration of Jesus' self-identification as the 'Son of Man' in John's Gospel reveals its unique significance, as it is predominantly used by Jesus himself and rarely by others. J. Harold Ellens delves into the implications of this title, examining its theological and literary meanings within the context of the Fourth Gospel. This investigation sheds light on the relationship between Jesus' identity and his mission, offering insights into the distinctive portrayal of Jesus in this biblical text.
Psychology and theology interface at four levels: theory development, research process, data collection, and clinical operation. At each level they connect in the model of humanness (anthropology) forming and functioning there; and in that model of humanness it is in personality theory that psychology illumes theology and that psychology illumines theology. A theologian who does not take full advantage of the way psychology illumines theology is not serious about the work of theology. A psychologist who does not take full advantage of the way theology illumines psychology is not serious about the field and practice of psychology. Science, Religion, and Health explains in readable style how that interface and mutual illumination works, and why it is crucial for Christian psychotherapists and pastors.
This collection presents innovative research by scholars from across the globe in celebration of Gabriele Boccaccini’s sixtieth birthday and to honor his contribution to the study of early Judaism and Christianity. In harmony with Boccaccini’s determination to promote the study of Second Temple Judaism in its own right, this volume includes studies on various issues raised in early Jewish apocalyptic literature (e. g., 1 Enoch, 2 Baruch, 4 Ezra), the Dead Sea Scrolls, and other early Jewish texts, from Tobit to Ben Sira to Philo and beyond. The volume also provides several investigations on early Christianity in intimate conversation with its Jewish sources, consistent with Boccaccini’s efforts to transcend confessional and disciplinary divisions by situating the origins of Christianity firmly within Second Temple Judaism. Finally, the volume includes essays that look at Jewish-Christian relations in the centuries following the Second Temple period, a harvest of Boccaccini’s labor to rethink the relationship between Judaism and Christianity in light of their shared yet contested heritage.
