Many Christians today have experienced a loss of enormous significance - they no longer understand their daily lives to be lived "before God." This timely work traces the development and implications of this loss and argues for its recovery. In comparing contemporary Christians with believers of previous eras, author George Stroup sees an "eclipse" of life lived before God. This eclipse is tragic because the Bible presupposes human life as a daily, personal relationship with God. Stroup here offers help by exploring anew the biblical view that Jesus Christ models most clearly what life lived before God and neighbor looks like. He then suggests that describing Christian life as gratitude naturally evokes a sense of life lived before God. The book concludes by examining whether life before God requires a sense of God's presence - and whether it is possible to live before God even in those times when he seems to be absent. Offering thought-provoking analysis of modern faith and sound direction for spiritual renewal, Before God is perfect for churches, study groups, pastors, and individuals pursuing genuine discipleship.
George W. Stroup is J. B. Green Professor of Theology at Columbia Theological Seminary, Decatur, Georgia. His other books include Jesus Christ for Today."
David Bartlett "This book is not only a wise and perceptive theological analysis but also an evangelical and prophetic call to believers: 'Remember whose you are and where you stand.' Before God provides a word we need to hear and heed." Ben Campbell Johnson "George Stroup has it right: we are all 'before God' all the time. Stroup has plunged into the pervasive spirituality emphasis and given those in the Reformed tradition a work of theological substance and existential relevance. His Before God speaks an important word amid all the pseudo-spirituality surrounding us today." Thomas G. Long "As we have come to expect from George Stroup, he speaks theological wisdom in a clear, engaging, and persuasive voice. What makes this book all the more compelling is that Stroup writes with the conviction, passion, and urgency of a theologian who knows that his work is performed not only in the library but also in the sanctuary. Stroup is deeply aware that he speaks 'before God." John M. Buchanan "George Stroup's important book addresses the 'eclipse of God' as the cultural milieu in which contemporary believers live and preachers try to preach. Stroup knows church people and writes with clarity and power. He also knows the academic tradition in which classic theology is constructed. This book is a happy and very relevant congruence, and it will prove a most valuable resource for all of us -- preachers, thoughtful laypersons, and seekers."
