Embracing the Past-Forging the Future: A New Generation of Wesleyan Theology

The times they are a-changin'. As such, our theology needs to adapt--to be responsive to the changing landscape. The idea for Embracing the Past--Forging the Future: A New Generation of Wesleyan Theology came from our assessment that Wesleyan theology has yet to fully adapt to this changing landscape, and that the future of Wesleyan theology requires the bringing together of old and new voices. The difficult task of balancing between continuity and change--keeping up with the developments of our culture and staying true to the roots of our tradition--requires the dual focus of looking forward and backward simultaneously. In this volume, we have brought together contributions by young Wesleyan scholars (graduate students and junior faculty) as a way of illustrating and articulating a new generation of Wesleyan theology. These younger voices demonstrate the desire to push Wesleyan theology in new directions. Additionally, we have included contributions from senior scholars who have been doing important work and who have already made significant contributions to Wesleyan theology. This is not simply the "old guard" but the voices of scholars who continue to make a profound impact on Wesleyan theology.

Wm. Andrew Schwartz is a PhD candidate in Philosophy of Religion and Theology at Claremont Graduate University, and Managing Director of the Center for Process Studies. He holds an MA in philosophy from CGU and an MA in theology from Nazarene Theological Seminary. An active member of the Wesleyan Theological Society, Andrew's academic interests include comparative philosophy and theology, Wesleyan theology, and religious pluralism. John M. Bechtold is a PhD candidate at the University of Denver/Iliff School of Theology Joint Doctoral Program in Theology, Philosophy, and Cultural Theory. His work focuses on the interplay between Christian theology and German Idealist philosophy. He is a frequent contributor to scholastic societies including the Wesleyan Theological Society, the Wesleyan Philosophical Society, and the American Academy of Religion.

John M. Bechtold is a PhD candidate at the University of Denver/Iliff School of Theology Joint Doctoral Program in Theology, Philosophy, and Cultural Theory. His work focuses on the interplay between Christian theology and German Idealist philosophy. He is a frequent contributor to scholastic societies including the Wesleyan Theological Society, the Wesleyan Philosophical Society, and the American Academy of Religion.

Michael E. Lodahl is professor of religion at Point Loma Nazarene University (San Diego). He is the author of Shekinah/Spirit: Divine Presence in Jewish and Christian Traditions and The Story of God, and has contributed to several scholarly journals.