In the 1970s theologians in Asia and Africa showed an interest in the way different cultural contexts influenced the interpretation of Christian belief. Manifestations of contextual theologies have since appeared in many parts of the world; animated international discussion about expressions, methods and theories for contextual theology have continued with the spread of contextual theology from the South to the North.. The object of these theologies is to shed new light on the concept of incarnation. How does the incarnated God act in a liberating way? Contextual theology explores awareness of the interrelatedness of God and culture. This book surveys important concepts, positions and problems of contextual theology, dealing with different criteria for the interpretation of 'context' and providing explanations of different theoretical models for contextual theology. Particular topics discussed include: the importance of place for the experience of God; a dynamic, correlative and communicative view of tradition; the approach to knowledge in contextualism and the greater right of the poor to aesthetic knowledge; human ecological formation of theology, and the contributions of pictorial art and architecture to contextual theology. Clearly explaining the importance of contextual theology for all theology, this book offers an invaluable text for students and others exploring theology in context.

'... the book is a timely reminder of the parochialism of Anglo-Saxon theology, and the fact that our present preoccupations are not those of the universal, or even of the European church. As in politics, the transatlantic connection can be stultifying. The sidelining of liberation theology has something to do with the present imperial set up and it is good to be reminded, once again, that there are other voices, other concerns, and other accents.' Theological Book Review '... this remains an interesting and, at times, stimulating book. The reader will be left informed, but perhaps more importantly challenged to consider God's 'ongoing incarnation' and thus to facilitate further explorations of God in context.' Ecotheology 'This book will be most useful to theological students, especially those beginning their own creative theological work.' Religious Studies Review

Sigurd Bergmann