Denominations. The word itself often sparks strong reactions, causing us to wonder if there are merits to our factions and if it's possible to come together as one.
Showing how denominational affiliation can be natural without being negative, and how evangelical identity can help rather than hinder Christian unity, Why We Belong explains both the personal and doctrinal reasons each of the following contributors fit not only in their church, but also in the Church:
- Gerald L. Bray (Anglican)
- Timothy F. George (Baptist)
- Douglas A. Sweeney (Lutheran)
- Timothy C. Tennent (Methodist)
- Byron D. Klaus (Pentecostal)
- Bryan Chapell (Presbyterian)
Demonstrating that Christians have significant reasons for identifying with a denomination, this book also helps us see and belong to something much larger than our own traditions--the family of God.
Bray, Gerald: -
Gerald Bray (DLitt, University of Paris-Sorbonne) is research professor at Beeson Divinity School and director of research for the Latimer Trust. He is a prolific writer and has authored or edited numerous books, including The Doctrine of God; Biblical Interpretation; and God Is Love.
Chapell, Bryan: -
Bryan Chapell is a bestselling author of many books, including Christ-Centered Preaching and Holiness by Grace. He is pastor emeritus of the historic Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, Illinois; president emeritus of Covenant Theological Seminary; and president of Unlimited Grace Media (unlimitedgrace.com), which broadcasts daily messages of gospel hope in many nations.
Chute, Anthony L.: -
Anthony L. Chute (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School; MDiv, Beeson Divinity School) is professor of church history and associate dean of the School of Christian Ministries at California Baptist University. He is the author of several books and has served as a pastor of multiple churches. He and his wife, Connie, have two children.
Dockery, David S.: -
David S. Dockery (PhD, University of Texas System) serves as president of the International Alliance for Christian Education as well as president and distinguished professor of theology at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Previously, he served as president of Union University and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He is a much-sought-after speaker and lecturer, a former consulting editor for Christianity Today, and the author or editor of more than forty books. Dockery and his wife, Lanese, have three married sons and seven grandchildren.
George, Timothy: -
Timothy George (ThD, Harvard University) is the founding dean of Samford University's Beeson Divinity School, where he teaches theology and church history. He serves as general editor for Reformation Commentary on Scripture and has written more than twenty books. His textbook Theology of the Reformers is the standard textbook on Reformation theology in many schools and seminaries.
Morgan, Christopher W.: -
Christopher W. Morgan (PhD, Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary) is a professor of theology and the dean of the School of Christian Ministries at California Baptist University. He is also the lead pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Highland, CA. He is the author or editor of over twenty books, including several volumes in the Theology in Community series.
Peterson, Robert A.: -
Robert A. Peterson (PhD, Drew University) is a writer and theologian. He taught for many years at various theological seminaries and has written or edited over thirty books.
Tennent, Timothy C.: -
Timothy C. Tennent (PhD, University of Edinburgh) is president of Asbury Theological Seminary, where he also serves as professor of world Christianity. He is a frequent conference speaker and is the author of several books and articles.
