Faith among Faiths: Christian Theology and Non-Christian Religions

by James L. Fredericks

Must you believe in Jesus to be saved? Nowadays Buddhists, Muslims, and Hindus are as likely to be our neighbors and co-workers as Catholics, Protestants, and Jews. This makes more important than ever the need to rethink our traditional understanding of other religions as "less than" Christianity. In response, the author presents a dynamic new model that shows how to study and interact with other religions on their own terms; it also helps transform our understanding of our own faith. This fascinating book begins by surveying contemporary models of "a theology of religions," each of which essentially looks at other faiths from the question of salvation. The author then presents his unique model of "doing theology comparatively," moving theology away from theory to active encounter. He ends with examples, comparing a story about Krishna with a parable, then exploring the meaning of Christian resurrection through the thought of Zen Buddhism. While this book will certainly be greeted with enthusiasm by theologians, students, parish offices, and diocesan offices, its absorbing and accessible approach to a contemporary problem makes it a fascinating title for all educated readers. †

208 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1999