The Seduction of the Church

"Discussing some key theological concepts in the biblical narrative and in modern hymnody, Prof. Doubles points to the cumulative effect of changes in language on the expression and even content of the Christian faith. Well researched and convincingly presented, the author argues that discontinuity between the language of beliefs, and the language of Bible, hymns, and liturgies, invites feelings of discomfort and frustration among church members. It is a book to be read carefully and taken seriously."

--Paul J. Achtemeier

Jackson Professor Emeritus of Biblical Interpretation, Union Theological Seminary, Virgina



"We all know that contemporary culture has challenged the traditional wisdom of the church in many ways. It is important for us to assess, however, the question of what has been lost and what has been gained. While this is crucial it is not easy. Doubles skillfully picks his way through this minefield with many surprising results. The outcome is an easily read, straight forward assessment that may be at one time both the most hated and the most praised book of the year."

--Richard A. Ray

Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Presbyterian Heritage Center



"Provocative as well as enlightening, ,The Seduction of the Church, is a well-researched, well-constructed study that should be required reading for all church professionals--ministers, educators, and musicians--and students of theology."

--Anna White Hill

Director of Music

First Presbyterian Church, Hartsville, South Carolina



"Attempting to exorcise the demon of sexism from its Bible and hymns, leaders in the mainline Protestant church do not seem to care that seven more may have entered in. But Malcolm Doubles cares, and he calls them out by name. He says what few have dared to say, namely, that we've been trading our rich theological inheritance and language of faith for a poor mess of pottage."

--Richard Burnett

Professor of Systematic Theology

Erskine Theological Seminary