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On Being Human

by C. Norman Kraus
Hardcover |English |1498213529 | 9781498213523

On Being Human

by C. Norman Kraus
Hardcover |English |1498213529 | 9781498213523
Overview

Too often the biblical passages governing sexual morality are interpreted in simplistic, proof texting ways that take no account of the cultural gap between ancient Israel and the modern world. And too often the official positions of churches are determined by opinion polls and majority votes rather than a sober theological and ethical assessment of the issues involved. A third way is called for that avoids the errors of both naive fundamentalism and the Bible-dismissing zeitgeist--a way that puts theological reflection at the forefront. This little book aims to provide a theologically informed, biblical approach to help Christians find a new way forward in their dialogue over questions surrounding homosexuality. It deconstructs the Augustinian theological tradition that has defined, evaluated, and regulated sexual behavior in the western Christian traditions. Kraus maintains that the doctrine of the creation (rather than the doctrine of sin) must be the framework for understanding sexuality and sexual desire. He argues that the basic justification for erotic physical intimacy is the fulfillment of God's original intention for human community (shalom). Beginning with the definition of ""the image of God"" as a social symbol that mirrors the Trinity, Kraus calls the church to reflect that trinitarian image as it is seen in Christ. He argues that this stance at the very least calls the church to empathetic inclusion of the GLBTQ community in its ongoing discernment conversation, which, of course, means full participation in its life. ""The relevance of this book reaches far beyond Mennonite circles. My brother and sister chaplains and Christians in the armed services, especially those troubled by the revocation of the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy, will find challenge and wisdom from the biblical and theological reflections of Professor Kraus. In fact, this is a book for anyone struggling with same-sex issues in the real world."" -Kermit D. Johnson Chaplain (Major General), United States Army (Retired) ""In this era of increasing agreement that sexual orientation is a natural disposition, yet also of vigorous disagreement over how we should live with our sexuality, Norman Kraus gracefully guides us through pertinent church history, biblical wisdom, and theological understanding. Given how readily we interpret Scripture to justify what we feel, Kraus's crisp scholarship, and the pastoral reflections upon it, are timely."" -David G. Myers coauthor of What God Has Joined Together: The Christian Case for Gay Marriage ""The church's dialogue on issues of sexual orientation has focused on biblical interpretation. Frequently neglected has been the broader theological overview that gives shape to that interpretation. In this timely contribution, C. Norman Kraus addresses that oversight by providing a thoughtful and concise theological reflection on sexual orientation, especially as it relates to humanity created in the 'Image of God.' On Being Human is a must-read for church leaders looking for fresh ways to engage their congregations in this vital dialogue."" -Vic Thiessen Mennonite Church Canada ""Here is a useful and refreshing contribution to the church's discernment about sexuality--mainly because what shines through is the author's profound Anabaptist commitment to Scripture. But it is not a simple or conventional approach; rather, Kraus welcomes Scripture as a lively partner in discernment, trusting that engagement with the deep core of the biblical tradition along with critical examination of science and culture will yield the wisdom so desperately needed in today's church. -Marlene Kropf Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary C. Norman Kraus is Professor emeritus at Goshen College in Indiana. He is the author and editor of numerous books and articles.
ISBN: 1498213529
ISBN13: 9781498213523
Author: C. Norman Kraus
Publisher: Wipf and Stock
Format: Hardcover
PublicationDate: 2011-10-07
Language: English
PageCount: 130
Dimensions: 5.51 x 0.44 x 8.5 inches
Weight: 11.04 ounces

Too often the biblical passages governing sexual morality are interpreted in simplistic, proof texting ways that take no account of the cultural gap between ancient Israel and the modern world. And too often the official positions of churches are determined by opinion polls and majority votes rather than a sober theological and ethical assessment of the issues involved. A third way is called for that avoids the errors of both naive fundamentalism and the Bible-dismissing zeitgeist--a way that puts theological reflection at the forefront. This little book aims to provide a theologically informed, biblical approach to help Christians find a new way forward in their dialogue over questions surrounding homosexuality. It deconstructs the Augustinian theological tradition that has defined, evaluated, and regulated sexual behavior in the western Christian traditions. Kraus maintains that the doctrine of the creation (rather than the doctrine of sin) must be the framework for understanding sexuality and sexual desire. He argues that the basic justification for erotic physical intimacy is the fulfillment of God's original intention for human community (shalom). Beginning with the definition of ""the image of God"" as a social symbol that mirrors the Trinity, Kraus calls the church to reflect that trinitarian image as it is seen in Christ. He argues that this stance at the very least calls the church to empathetic inclusion of the GLBTQ community in its ongoing discernment conversation, which, of course, means full participation in its life. ""The relevance of this book reaches far beyond Mennonite circles. My brother and sister chaplains and Christians in the armed services, especially those troubled by the revocation of the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy, will find challenge and wisdom from the biblical and theological reflections of Professor Kraus. In fact, this is a book for anyone struggling with same-sex issues in the real world."" -Kermit D. Johnson Chaplain (Major General), United States Army (Retired) ""In this era of increasing agreement that sexual orientation is a natural disposition, yet also of vigorous disagreement over how we should live with our sexuality, Norman Kraus gracefully guides us through pertinent church history, biblical wisdom, and theological understanding. Given how readily we interpret Scripture to justify what we feel, Kraus's crisp scholarship, and the pastoral reflections upon it, are timely."" -David G. Myers coauthor of What God Has Joined Together: The Christian Case for Gay Marriage ""The church's dialogue on issues of sexual orientation has focused on biblical interpretation. Frequently neglected has been the broader theological overview that gives shape to that interpretation. In this timely contribution, C. Norman Kraus addresses that oversight by providing a thoughtful and concise theological reflection on sexual orientation, especially as it relates to humanity created in the 'Image of God.' On Being Human is a must-read for church leaders looking for fresh ways to engage their congregations in this vital dialogue."" -Vic Thiessen Mennonite Church Canada ""Here is a useful and refreshing contribution to the church's discernment about sexuality--mainly because what shines through is the author's profound Anabaptist commitment to Scripture. But it is not a simple or conventional approach; rather, Kraus welcomes Scripture as a lively partner in discernment, trusting that engagement with the deep core of the biblical tradition along with critical examination of science and culture will yield the wisdom so desperately needed in today's church. -Marlene Kropf Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary C. Norman Kraus is Professor emeritus at Goshen College in Indiana. He is the author and editor of numerous books and articles.

Books - New and Used

The following guidelines apply to books:

  • New: A brand-new copy with cover and original protective wrapping intact. Books with markings of any kind on the cover or pages, books marked as "Bargain" or "Remainder," or with any other labels attached, may not be listed as New condition.
  • Used - Good: All pages and cover are intact (including the dust cover, if applicable). Spine may show signs of wear. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting. May include "From the library of" labels. Shrink wrap, dust covers, or boxed set case may be missing. Item may be missing bundled media.
  • Used - Acceptable: All pages and the cover are intact, but shrink wrap, dust covers, or boxed set case may be missing. Pages may include limited notes, highlighting, or minor water damage but the text is readable. Item may but the dust cover may be missing. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting, but the text cannot be obscured or unreadable.

Note: Some electronic material access codes are valid only for one user. For this reason, used books, including books listed in the Used – Like New condition, may not come with functional electronic material access codes.

Shipping Fees

  • Stevens Books offers FREE SHIPPING everywhere in the United States for ALL non-book orders, and $3.99 for each book.
  • Packages are shipped from Monday to Friday.
  • No additional fees and charges.

Delivery Times

The usual time for processing an order is 24 hours (1 business day), but may vary depending on the availability of products ordered. This period excludes delivery times, which depend on your geographic location.

Estimated delivery times:

  • Standard Shipping: 5-8 business days
  • Expedited Shipping: 3-5 business days

Shipping method varies depending on what is being shipped.  

Tracking
All orders are shipped with a tracking number. Once your order has left our warehouse, a confirmation e-mail with a tracking number will be sent to you. You will be able to track your package at all times. 

Damaged Parcel
If your package has been delivered in a PO Box, please note that we are not responsible for any damage that may result (consequences of extreme temperatures, theft, etc.). 

If you have any questions regarding shipping or want to know about the status of an order, please contact us or email to support@stevensbooks.com.

You may return most items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. It must also be in the original packaging.

Several types of goods are exempt from being returned. Perishable goods such as food, flowers, newspapers or magazines cannot be returned. We also do not accept products that are intimate or sanitary goods, hazardous materials, or flammable liquids or gases.

Additional non-returnable items:

  • Gift cards
  • Downloadable software products
  • Some health and personal care items

To complete your return, we require a tracking number, which shows the items which you already returned to us.
There are certain situations where only partial refunds are granted (if applicable)

  • Book with obvious signs of use
  • CD, DVD, VHS tape, software, video game, cassette tape, or vinyl record that has been opened
  • Any item not in its original condition, is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to our error
  • Any item that is returned more than 30 days after delivery

Items returned to us as a result of our error will receive a full refund,some returns may be subject to a restocking fee of 7% of the total item price, please contact a customer care team member to see if your return is subject. Returns that arrived on time and were as described are subject to a restocking fee.

Items returned to us that were not the result of our error, including items returned to us due to an invalid or incomplete address, will be refunded the original item price less our standard restocking fees.

If the item is returned to us for any of the following reasons, a 15% restocking fee will be applied to your refund total and you will be asked to pay for return shipping:

  • Item(s) no longer needed or wanted.
  • Item(s) returned to us due to an invalid or incomplete address.
  • Item(s) returned to us that were not a result of our error.

You should expect to receive your refund within four weeks of giving your package to the return shipper, however, in many cases you will receive a refund more quickly. This time period includes the transit time for us to receive your return from the shipper (5 to 10 business days), the time it takes us to process your return once we receive it (3 to 5 business days), and the time it takes your bank to process our refund request (5 to 10 business days).

If you need to return an item, please Contact Us with your order number and details about the product you would like to return. We will respond quickly with instructions for how to return items from your order.


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We'll pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item, etc.). In other cases, you will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs for returning your item. Shipping costs are non-refundable. If you receive a refund, the cost of return shipping will be deducted from your refund.

Depending on where you live, the time it may take for your exchanged product to reach you, may vary.

If you are shipping an item over $75, you should consider using a trackable shipping service or purchasing shipping insurance. We don’t guarantee that we will receive your returned item.

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Overview

Too often the biblical passages governing sexual morality are interpreted in simplistic, proof texting ways that take no account of the cultural gap between ancient Israel and the modern world. And too often the official positions of churches are determined by opinion polls and majority votes rather than a sober theological and ethical assessment of the issues involved. A third way is called for that avoids the errors of both naive fundamentalism and the Bible-dismissing zeitgeist--a way that puts theological reflection at the forefront. This little book aims to provide a theologically informed, biblical approach to help Christians find a new way forward in their dialogue over questions surrounding homosexuality. It deconstructs the Augustinian theological tradition that has defined, evaluated, and regulated sexual behavior in the western Christian traditions. Kraus maintains that the doctrine of the creation (rather than the doctrine of sin) must be the framework for understanding sexuality and sexual desire. He argues that the basic justification for erotic physical intimacy is the fulfillment of God's original intention for human community (shalom). Beginning with the definition of ""the image of God"" as a social symbol that mirrors the Trinity, Kraus calls the church to reflect that trinitarian image as it is seen in Christ. He argues that this stance at the very least calls the church to empathetic inclusion of the GLBTQ community in its ongoing discernment conversation, which, of course, means full participation in its life. ""The relevance of this book reaches far beyond Mennonite circles. My brother and sister chaplains and Christians in the armed services, especially those troubled by the revocation of the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy, will find challenge and wisdom from the biblical and theological reflections of Professor Kraus. In fact, this is a book for anyone struggling with same-sex issues in the real world."" -Kermit D. Johnson Chaplain (Major General), United States Army (Retired) ""In this era of increasing agreement that sexual orientation is a natural disposition, yet also of vigorous disagreement over how we should live with our sexuality, Norman Kraus gracefully guides us through pertinent church history, biblical wisdom, and theological understanding. Given how readily we interpret Scripture to justify what we feel, Kraus's crisp scholarship, and the pastoral reflections upon it, are timely."" -David G. Myers coauthor of What God Has Joined Together: The Christian Case for Gay Marriage ""The church's dialogue on issues of sexual orientation has focused on biblical interpretation. Frequently neglected has been the broader theological overview that gives shape to that interpretation. In this timely contribution, C. Norman Kraus addresses that oversight by providing a thoughtful and concise theological reflection on sexual orientation, especially as it relates to humanity created in the 'Image of God.' On Being Human is a must-read for church leaders looking for fresh ways to engage their congregations in this vital dialogue."" -Vic Thiessen Mennonite Church Canada ""Here is a useful and refreshing contribution to the church's discernment about sexuality--mainly because what shines through is the author's profound Anabaptist commitment to Scripture. But it is not a simple or conventional approach; rather, Kraus welcomes Scripture as a lively partner in discernment, trusting that engagement with the deep core of the biblical tradition along with critical examination of science and culture will yield the wisdom so desperately needed in today's church. -Marlene Kropf Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary C. Norman Kraus is Professor emeritus at Goshen College in Indiana. He is the author and editor of numerous books and articles.
ISBN: 1498213529
ISBN13: 9781498213523
Author: C. Norman Kraus
Publisher: Wipf and Stock
Format: Hardcover
PublicationDate: 2011-10-07
Language: English
PageCount: 130
Dimensions: 5.51 x 0.44 x 8.5 inches
Weight: 11.04 ounces

Too often the biblical passages governing sexual morality are interpreted in simplistic, proof texting ways that take no account of the cultural gap between ancient Israel and the modern world. And too often the official positions of churches are determined by opinion polls and majority votes rather than a sober theological and ethical assessment of the issues involved. A third way is called for that avoids the errors of both naive fundamentalism and the Bible-dismissing zeitgeist--a way that puts theological reflection at the forefront. This little book aims to provide a theologically informed, biblical approach to help Christians find a new way forward in their dialogue over questions surrounding homosexuality. It deconstructs the Augustinian theological tradition that has defined, evaluated, and regulated sexual behavior in the western Christian traditions. Kraus maintains that the doctrine of the creation (rather than the doctrine of sin) must be the framework for understanding sexuality and sexual desire. He argues that the basic justification for erotic physical intimacy is the fulfillment of God's original intention for human community (shalom). Beginning with the definition of ""the image of God"" as a social symbol that mirrors the Trinity, Kraus calls the church to reflect that trinitarian image as it is seen in Christ. He argues that this stance at the very least calls the church to empathetic inclusion of the GLBTQ community in its ongoing discernment conversation, which, of course, means full participation in its life. ""The relevance of this book reaches far beyond Mennonite circles. My brother and sister chaplains and Christians in the armed services, especially those troubled by the revocation of the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy, will find challenge and wisdom from the biblical and theological reflections of Professor Kraus. In fact, this is a book for anyone struggling with same-sex issues in the real world."" -Kermit D. Johnson Chaplain (Major General), United States Army (Retired) ""In this era of increasing agreement that sexual orientation is a natural disposition, yet also of vigorous disagreement over how we should live with our sexuality, Norman Kraus gracefully guides us through pertinent church history, biblical wisdom, and theological understanding. Given how readily we interpret Scripture to justify what we feel, Kraus's crisp scholarship, and the pastoral reflections upon it, are timely."" -David G. Myers coauthor of What God Has Joined Together: The Christian Case for Gay Marriage ""The church's dialogue on issues of sexual orientation has focused on biblical interpretation. Frequently neglected has been the broader theological overview that gives shape to that interpretation. In this timely contribution, C. Norman Kraus addresses that oversight by providing a thoughtful and concise theological reflection on sexual orientation, especially as it relates to humanity created in the 'Image of God.' On Being Human is a must-read for church leaders looking for fresh ways to engage their congregations in this vital dialogue."" -Vic Thiessen Mennonite Church Canada ""Here is a useful and refreshing contribution to the church's discernment about sexuality--mainly because what shines through is the author's profound Anabaptist commitment to Scripture. But it is not a simple or conventional approach; rather, Kraus welcomes Scripture as a lively partner in discernment, trusting that engagement with the deep core of the biblical tradition along with critical examination of science and culture will yield the wisdom so desperately needed in today's church. -Marlene Kropf Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary C. Norman Kraus is Professor emeritus at Goshen College in Indiana. He is the author and editor of numerous books and articles.

Books - New and Used

The following guidelines apply to books:

  • New: A brand-new copy with cover and original protective wrapping intact. Books with markings of any kind on the cover or pages, books marked as "Bargain" or "Remainder," or with any other labels attached, may not be listed as New condition.
  • Used - Good: All pages and cover are intact (including the dust cover, if applicable). Spine may show signs of wear. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting. May include "From the library of" labels. Shrink wrap, dust covers, or boxed set case may be missing. Item may be missing bundled media.
  • Used - Acceptable: All pages and the cover are intact, but shrink wrap, dust covers, or boxed set case may be missing. Pages may include limited notes, highlighting, or minor water damage but the text is readable. Item may but the dust cover may be missing. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting, but the text cannot be obscured or unreadable.

Note: Some electronic material access codes are valid only for one user. For this reason, used books, including books listed in the Used – Like New condition, may not come with functional electronic material access codes.

Shipping Fees

  • Stevens Books offers FREE SHIPPING everywhere in the United States for ALL non-book orders, and $3.99 for each book.
  • Packages are shipped from Monday to Friday.
  • No additional fees and charges.

Delivery Times

The usual time for processing an order is 24 hours (1 business day), but may vary depending on the availability of products ordered. This period excludes delivery times, which depend on your geographic location.

Estimated delivery times:

  • Standard Shipping: 5-8 business days
  • Expedited Shipping: 3-5 business days

Shipping method varies depending on what is being shipped.  

Tracking
All orders are shipped with a tracking number. Once your order has left our warehouse, a confirmation e-mail with a tracking number will be sent to you. You will be able to track your package at all times. 

Damaged Parcel
If your package has been delivered in a PO Box, please note that we are not responsible for any damage that may result (consequences of extreme temperatures, theft, etc.). 

If you have any questions regarding shipping or want to know about the status of an order, please contact us or email to support@stevensbooks.com.

You may return most items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. It must also be in the original packaging.

Several types of goods are exempt from being returned. Perishable goods such as food, flowers, newspapers or magazines cannot be returned. We also do not accept products that are intimate or sanitary goods, hazardous materials, or flammable liquids or gases.

Additional non-returnable items:

  • Gift cards
  • Downloadable software products
  • Some health and personal care items

To complete your return, we require a tracking number, which shows the items which you already returned to us.
There are certain situations where only partial refunds are granted (if applicable)

  • Book with obvious signs of use
  • CD, DVD, VHS tape, software, video game, cassette tape, or vinyl record that has been opened
  • Any item not in its original condition, is damaged or missing parts for reasons not due to our error
  • Any item that is returned more than 30 days after delivery

Items returned to us as a result of our error will receive a full refund,some returns may be subject to a restocking fee of 7% of the total item price, please contact a customer care team member to see if your return is subject. Returns that arrived on time and were as described are subject to a restocking fee.

Items returned to us that were not the result of our error, including items returned to us due to an invalid or incomplete address, will be refunded the original item price less our standard restocking fees.

If the item is returned to us for any of the following reasons, a 15% restocking fee will be applied to your refund total and you will be asked to pay for return shipping:

  • Item(s) no longer needed or wanted.
  • Item(s) returned to us due to an invalid or incomplete address.
  • Item(s) returned to us that were not a result of our error.

You should expect to receive your refund within four weeks of giving your package to the return shipper, however, in many cases you will receive a refund more quickly. This time period includes the transit time for us to receive your return from the shipper (5 to 10 business days), the time it takes us to process your return once we receive it (3 to 5 business days), and the time it takes your bank to process our refund request (5 to 10 business days).

If you need to return an item, please Contact Us with your order number and details about the product you would like to return. We will respond quickly with instructions for how to return items from your order.


Shipping Cost


We'll pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item, etc.). In other cases, you will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs for returning your item. Shipping costs are non-refundable. If you receive a refund, the cost of return shipping will be deducted from your refund.

Depending on where you live, the time it may take for your exchanged product to reach you, may vary.

If you are shipping an item over $75, you should consider using a trackable shipping service or purchasing shipping insurance. We don’t guarantee that we will receive your returned item.

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