Twentieth Century Christian Responses to Religious Pluralism: Difference Is Everything

Twentieth Century Christian Responses to Religious Pluralism begins with the recognition that the traditional three-fold typology adopted by Christians in responding to other living world religions is no longer adequate and offers a much more sophisticated and developed approach. This is accomplished with particular reference to ten key Twentieth Century theologians, each of whom had significant influence in the field of inter-religious studies, both during their lifetime and beyond. The author rejects the exclusivism and triumphalism of traditional Christian approaches and argues strongly and persuasively that the future for inter-religious relationships lies in what he describes as 'classical pluralism', and in an understanding of the importance of difference for inter-faith dialogue. Presenting an accessible introduction to the contemporary issues and challenges facing all those engaged in the further development of inter-faith relationships, dialogue and partnership between the world religions, Pitman argues that the future of world peace and prosperity depends on the outcome.

David Pitman began his professional life as a teacher before entering the ordained ministry. He served in a number of parish appointments, spent time with the Methodist Church in Fiji, and for fourteen years taught Ministry and Mission as a member of the Faculty of Trinity Theological College in Brisbane, Australia. He was twice elected to be the Moderator of the Queensland Synod of the Uniting Church in Australia. In his retirement he continues to serve the Uniting Church in various capacities and is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Queensland.