Dale W. Brown

Dale Brown's study and apologetic for Pietism offers some wonderful insights into the theology of Spener, Francke and other Pietists. He examines Pietist ecclesiology, their doctrine of scripture and proper interpretation of it, the centrality of regeneration, the experience of new birth in the Spirit, their 'otherworldliness' and the ways in which it was tempered by their activism. He concludes with a contemporary critique of where Pietism has run amok into ethics, individualism but he also show more explores the gifts Pietism has to teach us in our day (namely as a reform/renewal movement it called people beyond doctrinal formulations to an experiential faith.

Brown's research into the Pietists began while he was working on his doctorate and heard many criticisms and dismissals launched at the Pietists in academia. His own heritage is Brethren so he had a vested interest in exploring the teaching of the Pietists (the Brethren are heirs of Pietism). What he discovered is that many of their so-called weaknesses are offset by their strengths. Pietism calls those who experience new birth to live lives characterized by faithfulness. Such a prophetic challenge remains important. show less

The author surveys how the Church of the Brethren has responded to the non-resistant command of Christ to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. The book surveys an Anabaptist view of non resistance, describes various contemporary pacifist positions, and analyzes numerous philosophical, ethical, and political questions which impact the peace witness of all churches.

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