Types of Ecclesiology

“David Emerton’s Types of Ecclesiology is a must for anyone interested in a theology of the church. With careful and creative analysis, Emerton is a sure guide through the complexities of contemporary ecclesiology. This book is astute, thoughtful, careful, and insightful. I cannot recommend it strongly enough.”—Tom Greggs, University of Aberdeen; Center of Theological Inquiry, Princeton

“Types of Ecclesiology illuminates contemporary ecclesiological thought by articulating five distinct approaches. Avoiding denominational biases, David Emerton elucidates the logic and concerns driving each type, arguing that ecclesiology must first account for the church’s unique nature before evaluating its activities. This timely volume offers an invaluable framework for engaging in contemporary debates, one that is essential for advancing the ecumenical movement and fostering the unity of the church. Highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding the church by its nature.”—Rev. Stephanie Dietrich, moderator of the WCC Faith and Order Commission; VID Specialized University, Oslo, Norway

“In this novel study of ecclesiology, David Emerton surveys the ecclesiological landscape—but not according to Pauline images, denominational difference, or polity. Instead, he draws a map of contemporary approaches to ecclesiology in terms of their relative emphases on divine and human action. Emerton gives each theologian he discusses a fair hearing, while not shying away from critical assessment. He also has an argument of his own to make, wisely turning to the third article of the Nicene creed to account for the way in which the presence and action of God relativizes, without minimizing, the all-too-human agency of God’s people.”—Matt Jenson, professor of theology, Torrey Honors College, Biola University