Everyday Theology - How to Read Cultural Texts and Interpret Trends

Generally speaking, students, theologians, pastors, and church leaders are well-trained in the task of biblical exegesis. Where many fall short, however, is in the area of cultural exegesis--reading and interpreting the texts and trends produced by our culture, which can have a profound influence on the way we understand the world and practice our faith. Anyone interested in the intersection of Christianity and culture needs to be able to do "everyday theology." This innovative volume will help readers think theologically about our cultural environment and respond faithfully as Christian disciples."I am one of those Christians who has theological questions about Eminem, MySpace, grocery stores, and the like. So I am very pleased that we now have this book of stimulating and important reflections on such matters. These authors demonstrate how to think theologically about popular culture."--Richard J. Mouw, professor of faith and public life and former president, Fuller Seminary"Kevin Vanhoozer, Charles Anderson, and Michael Sleasman bring together a bright team of culture readers who help us see common things in uncommon ways and describe them with uncommon yet useful terms. They are pioneers, I hope, of a new era among faithful people in constructive, discerning, and loving engagement rather than reactive, superficial, and judgmental antagonism toward our culture."--Brian McLaren, author/activist (brianmclaren.net)"There is now a proliferation of books on religion and popular culture but very few books on theology and popular culture. This book seeks to remedy that and offers a rationale for why and how Christians should 'read' popular culture. Kevin Vanhoozer's approach strikes a wise balance between interpreting popular culture with open good will for where God might really be speaking and a biblically formed suspicion for the cunning manufacture of idols. The selection of cultural artifacts examined in part 2 is wide ranging, quirky, and inspired."--Kelton Cobb, director and professor of Christian thought and history, The Oregon Extension, Eastern Mennonite University