Liberation Theology for Armchair Theologians

by Miguel A. De La Torre

Publisher:

Westminster John Knox

, 2013

Overview

In this helpful addition to the Armchair Theologians series, Miguel A. De La Torre provides a concise overview of the global religious movement known as liberation theology that focuses on defining the major themes of this movement, as well as dispelling some common misconceptions. Liberation theology attempts to reflect upon the divine as understood from the poor, the marginalized, and the disenfranchised. The key figures, historical developments, and interfaith manifestations are all explored in this thorough introduction. Deftly crafted by De La Torre and accompanied by Ron Hill’s illustrations, this book will serve as a primary text for those who may have little or no knowledge of liberation theology.

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Key Features

• Studies Liberation Theology in the context of the modern global movement
• Offers knowledge from field experts in a simple and playful presentation
• Features witty illustrations by Ron Hill

Contents

Top Highlights

“What makes liberation theology truly radical is its focus on the poor, the marginalized, the dispossessed, and the disenfranchised. While most theologies are developed by religious leaders and academicians, liberation theology attempts to reflect upon the divine as understood from the underside of history.” (Page ix)

“Their understanding of Christianity led them to believe that the universal church of Jesus Christ had a moral obligation to stand in solidarity with those marginalized by the secular and ecclesiastical social structures of their day.” (Page 4)

“Las Casas concluded that conversion could not be defined as accepting some theological proposition; rather, conversion had to be based on actions taken. To be converted to Christ meant being converted through the Christlike liberative actions in which one engaged.” (Page 11)

“Clodovis breaks with the foundational principle of liberation theology, which he describes as the error of making the poor the first operative principle of theology, replacing God and Jesus with them.” (Page 69)

“The promise of the abundant life is not for some messianic future; it is for the here and now” (Page 1)

Product Details

• Title: Liberation Theology for Armchair Theologians
• Authors: Miguel De La Torre
• Series: W. J. K. Armchair
• Publisher: Westminster John Knox
• Publication Date: 2013
• Pages: 180
• Resource Type: Introductions
• Topic: Liberation Theology

About Miguel A. De La Torre

Miguel A. De La Torre is associate professor of social ethics at Iliff School of Theology in Denver. He is the author of several books, including The Quest for the Historical Satan, Social Justice from a Latino/a Perspective, Liberating Jonah: Forming an Ethics of Reconciliation, and Doing Christian Ethics from the Margins. He is president of the Society for Christian Ethics and a board member of the American Academy of Religion. He is also the editor of the Journal of Race, Ethnicity, and Religion.