Flourishing in Tensions: Embracing Radical Discipleship

For all of us dealing with a complicated and complex world, Flourishing in Tensions, reintroduces God's gifts to us in scripture, thoughtful dialogue with theologians of the past, and current psychological thinking. Well balanced, Brautigam's argument mixes a critique of the world that is, including our inner life, and a hope for the present and future. A hope that might include current day suffering, but also a desire to follow the words of Jesus, and to deny ourselves. A deep but accessible read.

This book ministered deeply to my soul and I think I will have to re-read it! Like a prism held up to the light, this book considered the call to discipleship - to deny self, take up your cross, and follow Jesus - with rich depth and pastoral application. The connection of Christ's call to take up your cross with the Pauline idea of suffering with Christ I found uniquely helpful. Like a prism before a light, Brautigam considered the call to discipleship through both old and new angles, revealing nuances and fresh insights. His notion of flourishing in the multitude of tensions - whether they be theological or practical - and his Christocentric approach where illuminating. The integration of Bonhoeffer, Barth, various reformed theologians and others from church history added strength to the call to discipleship and also connection with the past. Brautigam's use of contemporary research in psychology and also his understanding of present day culture made his application all the stronger. He writes clearly, logically and succinctly, using chapters and sub-titles helpfully, making this deep book easy to read. His numerous footnotes -for those game enough! - were also an aid to see the influences on his thought and also additional ideas to those covered in-text. I will be buying a number of copies to give out to others. Now to embrace this call to radical discipleship and befriend others to the fellowship of the King!