No sooner have they mastered the basics than students of theology can quickly find themselves in over their heads. They are bombarded with claim and counter-claim as soon as they want to tackle anything topical. The contentious subjects tend to be the historical Jesus, gender and sexuality, or the atonement. Other subjects might be less contentious but attract an astonishing excess of literature. Take the vast literature tackling the subject of the Church, for instance, or the bloated body of tomes on various aspects of Pneumatology. This book tries to provide the bewildered and intimidated student with a primer that is at once introductory and incisive; approachable and informative. It will help those training for ministry to recover their fascination for the subject of theology and how it could apply to their future ministry. Subjects covered include - The Quests for the Historical Jesus - Third Article Theology - The Missional Church - Liberation Theology - Feminist, LGBT and Queer Approaches - Postmodern Faith and the Emerging Church - Nonviolent Atonement

"This is an engaging and challenging guide to some of the most important strands in theology today. It offers a comprehensive introduction to eight key areas, giving helpful background, as well as questions for reflection. It is also eminently readable. A must for every student of theology” -- Revd Dr Emma Ineson
"A lively and engaging study, Theology in the Contemporary World promises to stimulate fresh interest amongst a younger generation of students. With its clear presentation, discussion points, and summations of recent scholarship, it will provide a valuable resource for course organisers and teachers in a variety of educational contexts." -- David Fergusson
"In brief compass, this book supplies students with an excellent bridge between foundational doctrines and some of the most significant contemporary conversations in theology, and does so with a keen eye for the practical and ministerial implications." -- Mark Knight

Ben Pugh is lecturer in New Testament and Applied Theology at Cliff College, UK. He is the author of "The Old Rugged Cross: A History of the Atonement in Popular Christian Devotion", and "Bold Faith: A Closer Look at the Five Key Ideas of Charismatic Christianity".