Another Way of Believing: A Brethren Theology

by Dale W. Brown, Paul Grout (Illustrator)

The Church of the Brethren finds it more difficult to articulate its beliefs than do those denominations that treasure creeds, catechisms, and perhaps a single theologian. Yet Brethren have experienced a variety of ways to "do theology," says Dale W. Brown, for whom doing theology and living out the faith are very similar. This important contribution to-and from-the Church of the Brethren is useful for both adcademic and lay readers.

245 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Miles Larson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished this one a while back, but hadn’t posted it. For our overseer training at Northgate Community Church, we read this. I love that it bridges our Historic section, and doctrine section so well. It’s actually a COB guy, but let’s not split hairs. His last chapter in particular challenges the “company line” of Americanism over Christianity, a conversation that is overdue, and too often ignored. Admittedly, this has a slimmer market than most texts, but if ya wanna know what we Brethren think, and from whence we came, ya can’t do much better than this...

[Jenn Balmer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed learning more about my Church of the Brethren heritage but felt the writing was dry and sometimes very difficult to connect to.

[Denise Kettering · Rating 4 out of 5]

As one of the few attempts at any sort of comprehensive Brethren theology, Brown's book should be applauded for how accessible it is to most readers as well as how many key topics in Brethren theology Brown is able to cover. The book covers a wide range of topics from noncreedalism to the Brethren peace position. However, at times, Brown falls into the trap of retelling stories in the mode of a memoir. Overall, this book makes a contribution to Brethren theology and can be helpful for a variety of readers.

[Kathryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was our guiding book during my membership class in the Church of the Brethren. It speaks to the unique traditions of the church and how we interpret the Bible to be Anabaptist and piteous. It’s a good reference now as I continue on my faith journey.

[Stephen Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite theology books.