Here is an entirely original approach to the theology of love, a subject little covered in too much recent theology in the West. In the New Testament, Love is the principle of God's action and man's response. The word agape was introduced by New Testament writers to express the meaning of their understanding of love. In its full sense, love in Christian theology is not only the motive principle of the perfect relationship between God and man but also consitutes the essential nature of God Himself. In the Eastern theological tradition, writing on this subject has been much richer - indeed it continues to be so in the writings of such 20th century theologians such as Lossky, Evdokimov and Olivier Clement.Louth who is himself Orthodox draws heavily on this tradition shows how much people in the West have to learn. Examining also St Augustine, St Francis and Therese of Lisieux, Louth has written an ecumenical book in the best sense and has written it in a way that will compel the interest of those who seldom darken the doors of a Church.This new series will address the fundamental themes of theology at the start of the new century. Original and creative authors are contributing books that will provoke people to think boldly and imaginatively about religion. "New Century Theology" aims to recover and reassert the latent power of theology to address the big issues of life and faith to the widest audience.

Table of Contents

Introduction; 1. Apostles of Love; 2. Martyrs of Love; 3. Love The Key to the Divine Mystery; 4. Love as Folly; 5. Hidden Love.

Author Biography

Professor Andrew Louth is Professor of Patristics in the University of Durham. He was formerly Dean and Fellow of Worcester College, Oxford, UK.