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In the realm of Christian publications targeting the laity, this book is unique - and revolutionary. It argues that the essence of the teaching of Jesus of Nazareth was ethical rather than "religious", that Christians who identify themselves as "followers of Jesus" need to think and act in ethical terms, and that the role of the church is to promote discussion of issues from an ethical perspective - and then to act appropriately. The first part of the book considers how the stories and sayings of Jesus were influenced by the intervening period of oral transmission between his life and when the Gospels were written - and what the core message was that he was trying to convey. The latter part of the book looks at multiple contemporary issues and how an ethical perspective regards them. It concludes that, rather than eschew dealing with controversial issues, the church should be the forum for such discussions. The final Appendix section provides supporting historical and reference information. This is a book for the thoughtful lay person who is having trouble reconciling what he/she really thinks with what they hear from the pulpit, what they remember from childhood, and what most churches preach and represent. This book encourages churches and church people to become active in their communities as centers of public activity and to engage in service for their communities. It reinterprets the message of Jesus and the message of the church, encouraging churches to become a redeeming voice in their communities. An abundance of literature exists on traditional Christian religion. This book provides the reader with a serious, relevant and thoughtful perspective that the general lay person will find enlightening and useful.
