New Title Toward a Culture of Freedom: Reflections on the Ten Commandments Today By Thorwald Lorenzen A highly accessible examination of the contemporary meaning and relevance of the Ten Commandments. ISBN-13: 978718891930 Specifications: 229x152mm, 260pp, Paperback Price: £17.50 • US$37.50 Publication: August 2008 Order this Title Now

About this Book

The Ten Commandments belong to the "classics" of Western culture. They are an authoritative part of the Hebrew and the Christian Scriptures. Since they come to us from an ancient past, it is both necessary and worthwhile to enquire what they may mean for us today.

Thorwald Lorenzen contends it is important to hear God’s invitation to an alternative lifestyle: “you shall not kill”, “you shall not commit adultery”, “you shall not covet”. His thoughtful reflections on the commandments for today’s tumultuous world begin with the God who “speaks” ten word to liberate God’s people from oppression. Grounded in God's liberating “yes”, the ten words are neither laws nor rules. They are elements for a culture of freedom in which people are invited to celebrate life.

Written in plain language, this is a work of immense value to both pastors and laypersons, and an excellent study aid.

Reviews and Comments

"...a fresh and deeply profound meditation on the Ten Words of the Torah."
Kent Blevins, Gardner-Webb University

"Biblically grounded, theologically astute, Lorenzen's treatment of each of the commandments results in constructing a mature, global ethic for Christians."
D. Dixon Sutherland, Stetson University

"Deeply grounded in scriptures and equipped with an expansive and compassionate experience of today's world, Professor Lorenzen will help you to discern some solid rocks to stand on in an era when all human foundations seem to be quivering."
E. Glenn Hinson, Professor Emeritus, Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond

About the Author

Thorwald Lorenzen is Professor of Theology at Charles Sturt University, guest lecturer at the University of Melbourne, and Principal Researcher within the Public and Contextual Theology Strategic Research Centre (PACT), Charles Sturt University in Canberra, Australia.