1st Edition

Divine Revelation and Human Learning A Christian Theory of Knowledge

By David Heywood Copyright 2004

    How do we learn about God? In an age of competing world-views, what is the basis of the Christian claim to offer the truth about God, the world and ourselves? David Heywood charts a path through the study of human knowledge, showing how the insights of theology, philosophy and psychology complement and amplify one another, and bringing the experience of revelation within the scope of the study of human learning. He shows the relationship between human psychology and the work of the Holy Spirit and demonstrates the credibility of the Christian claim to a transforming knowledge of God in Jesus Christ. Offering a new model for the relationship of theology to the natural and social sciences, David Heywood shows how the claim of Christian theology to deal in issues of universal truth can be upheld. For Christian education, this book provides a theological rationale for the use of methods of teaching and learning of educationally proven effectiveness.

    Contents: Introduction; Knowing the world; The big picture; Thinking and feeling; Knowing the self; Theology among the sciences; The image of God; The Jesus of faith and history; Conclusion; Bibliography; Indexes.

    Biography

    Revd David Heywood is a Church of England Parish Priest, in the UK.

    'This book is a splendid, elegant achievement. Heywood provides an illuminating synthesis of material drawn from the social sciences, philosophy, and theology that underpins a compelling vision of Christian education. The text bristles with intellectual integrity, economy of expression, theological substance, spiritual sensitivity, and practical import. It deserves to be read and pondered in every field of theological inquiry and ecclesial practice.' William J Abraham, Professor of Philosophy of Religion, Southern Methodist University, USA 'Divine Revelation and Human Learning provides a distinctive and illuminating contribution to the topic of revelation, by taking seriously the natural processes of human learning through which it is received.  While David Heywood’s interdisciplinary study begins from an empirical base in the psychology of learning, his intelligent and sure-footed analysis goes on to explore the philosophical and theological issues involved.  His arguments effectively link Christian education and practical theology to one of the most significant themes in Christian theology.' Ann Loades CBE, Professor of Divinity, University of Durham, UK 'This book is a labour of love... lucidly written...well worth reading...a complex but very thought-provoking, stretching book.' The Church of England Newspaper 'In this rich volume there is much to consider and much that is, happily, in conflict with contemporary education policy. Anyone concerned with adult education - indeed anyone concerned with education at all and who has an interest in theology should read this book. It would make a splendid basis for a seminar...' Journal of Adult Theological Education 'This book contains an interesting and, at least in outline, persuasive thesis. It contains many good things.' Crucible 'Theological college and course staff - take note, and read this book!' Anvil