Jesus and Community: The Social Dimensions of Christian Faith

This is not a new book. Written in 1982, with the English translation published in 1984, this 24-year old book speaks powerfully to the role of the people of God throughout history. Lohfink, former professor of New Testament at Tubingen University, makes a compelling case for "the people of God" as those communities called by God to live out the reign of God here and now.Lohfink argues that "the people of God" -- whether in the Hebrew scripture or New Testament or today -- have always been a "contrast-society" distinguished by, not just their belief, but by their practices. This book takes scripture seriously, and brings new life to our understanding of the role of the church. Lohfink argues, "When the church is criticized among the nations because of its bad example, the holy name of God itself is dishonored. This presupposes that the church is the sign, the presence, the honor of God in the world. When the church obscures this sign, it impedes the work of salvation and disfigures the true nature of God."Powerful stuff and needed today.

If you are looking for how to be a leader in a community like Jesus did, this is a great book. The book is an easy read and very informative on how Jesus desires us to live out our lives in community with brothers and sisters. Lohfink gives an explanation of what type of community the church is to be and how we are to live that out. It also teaches how Jesus did community, with his disciples and in ministry. It also concentrates on the call of Christ to be disciples and leaders of community. Best advice, if the title interests you and you're still continuing to read on about it, just read the book, it's worth it!!

I had initial doubts that a book by a German theologian might be turgid, but no it was very readable. I like the way he made is points very empirically by citing specific texts, if sometimes his own individual interpretations of them. We are using it as a book club book and I think it will work very well.

A great theological overview of who the church is and how it should be living the message of the gospel.Every church leader should read this to know what it is we are building. Not "meetings" but the people of God.

Hubby needed this book for Course of Study for ministry. Easy to read and understand. Stayed on content and did not jump around

Needed this for class.

Very informative for today's church.

Great! Thank you!