The HTML of Cruciform Love
Toward a Theology of the Internet
Edited by John Frederick and Eric Lewellen
Imprint: Pickwick Publications
The topic of the Internet is vastly underrepresented in the current literature on the intersection of technology and theology. Studies on Internet theology are certainly viewed as a topic of "special interest," relevant--it might be thought--only to eccentric academics and tech geeks. Yet, this book contends that there is no topic more pertinent to our daily walk as contemporary followers of Jesus Christ than the theological implications of the Internet. The twelve essays of this volume, though standalone pieces, also work in conjunction to investigate the themes of community and character formation in the digital realm. A host of interrelated sub-themes are represented in the book, including the application of patristic theology to contemporary Internet praxis, a demonology of the Internet, virtue ethics in cyberspace, and studies that consider the implications of Internet technology on aesthetics, personhood, and the self. Together, the chapters work toward a collaborative, constructive, cruciform theology of the Internet. The Internet is more than a supplementary component to our personal lives; rather, it is a medium of vital connection for the digital communion of the saints through the HTML of cruciform love.
John Frederick is a lecturer in New Testament at Trinity College Queensland. He is the author of Worship in the Way of the Cross (2017).
Eric Lewellen is an account manager at Vercross LLC.
“This book is a beautiful example of theological exploration on a component central to the lives of so many people: the internet. The essays diverge in various ways, some more appreciative of the internet's impact on theology and religious life, others more leery. Those who take theology seriously in an age of internet need to reckon with the powerful ideas in this fine collection!”
—Thomas Jay Oord, author of God Can't, The Uncontrolling Love of God
“Through a set of intelligent, well-crafted, and stimulating essays representing a diversity of views, the volume offers constructive tools for a critically faithful Christian engagement with the internet. Ranging from biblical exegesis to political theology and social ethics, Clement of Alexandria to Luther and Levinas, The HTML of Cruciform Love is necessary reading, and should be put in the hands of every seminarian and church leader.”
—Ephraim Radner, Wycliffe College
“This is a very timely and thought-provoking volume. Theologians formed before the internet even took its hold on contemporary culture will do well to attend to its messages. For there is no reason in principle, of course, why theology of the most demanding and life-changing sort should not be purveyed via this medium, and with great and widespread influence; the problem then is one of discernment, of ascetic choices which the internet as a whole requires of us. The contributors to this exploratory volume are well aware of this challenge and provide rich and reflective essays in response to it.”
—Sarah Coakley, University of Cambridge and Australian Catholic University, Melbourne
“Drawn from various perspectives— at times in a ‘point’ and 'counter-point’ sequence— this volume combines robust theological reflection with proactive practices to guide followers of Jesus in this emerging world.”
—Glenn Packiam, pastor, author of Discover the Mystery of Faith
“One of the most notable strengths of John Frederick and Eric Lewellen’s book lies in its catechetical approach to the internet and contemporary culture. The book makes innovative connections that draw on a number of theological and scriptural resources, in turn providing a range of enquiries that are sensitive to the complexities of both humans and the internet. This is, overall, an important book that sets a precedent for doing theology in a digital age.”
—Scott Midson, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Lincoln Theological Institute
“We have long needed a book to help us think theologically about technology and our humanity—something beyond a simple self-help manual. The HTML of Cruciform Love: Toward a Theology of the Internet is an engaging, sophisticated, and practical collection of essays that can help inform our thoughts and guide our behaviors. This book will be a helpful resource for Christians in the twenty-first century.”
—Dennis R. Edwards, Associate Pastor of New Testament, Northern Seminary
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