After We Die: Theology, Philosophy, and the Question of Life after Death

Marc Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index. Jacket Description/Flap: In "After We Die," philosopher Stephen T. Davis subjects one of Christianity s key beliefs that Christians not only will survive death but also will enjoy bodily resurrection to searching philosophical analysis. Facing each critique squarely, Davis contends that traditional, historic belief about the eschatological future is philosophically defensible. Davis examines personal extinction, reincarnation, and immortality of the soul. By juxtaposing two systems of salvation reincarnation/karma and resurrection/grace Davis explores the Christian claim that humans will be raised from the dead, as well as the radical Christian assertions of Jesus resurrection, ascension, and long-anticipated return. Davis finally addresses Christian thinking about heaven, hell, and purgatory. The philosophical defense of Christianity s core beliefs enables Davis to render a reasonable answer to the eternal question of what happens to us after we die. "After We Die" is essential reading for teachers and students of philosophy, theology, and Bible, as well as anyone interested in a reasoned analysis of historic Christian faith, particularly as it pertains to the inevitable end of each and every human being."Commendation Quotes: This accessible, elegant, and intellectually honest argument for classical Christian eschatology is chock-full of carefully reasoned arguments on behalf of contested Christian beliefs. It is Christian apologetics at its kindest. Commendation Quotes: In "After We Die," Stephen Davis gathers a deep learning in philosophy and religion to present a wonderfully clear, articulate, and honest presentation of Christian thought for today. Anyone with an open mind and a curious spirit will learn from and enjoy this fine volume. Biographical Note: Stephen T. Davis is Russell K. Pitzer Professor of Philosophy at Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, California and author of "Disputed Issues - Contending for Christian Faith in Today's Academic Setting "(Baylor University Press, 2009). Table of Contents: Introduction1. Survival of Death Theories2. Karma versus Grace3. Resurrection4. Ascension and Second Coming5. Hell6. Purgatory7. HeavenConclusionNotesBibliographyScripture IndexGeneral IndexCommendation Quotes: Stephen T. Davis explores a number of related questions about death and what happens after death, and argues that an array of traditional Christian views about these matters are both philosophically and theologically defensible. Written in a clear, no-nonsense style, Davis gives fair consideration to alternative views, and helps readers see what is at stake in relation to issues that are genuinely existential. This is an important book that will not only be valuable to academic readers, but to anyone pondering these great questions."Publisher Marketing: In "After We Die," philosopher Stephen T. Davis subjects one of Christianity s key beliefs that Christians not only will survive death but also will enjoy bodily resurrection to searching philosophical analysis. Facing each critique squarely, Davis contends that traditional, historic belief about the eschatological future is philosophically defensible. Davis examines personal extinction, reincarnation, and immortality of the soul. By juxtaposing two systems of salvation reincarnation/karma and resurrection/grace Davis explores the Christian claim that humans will be raised from the dead, as well as the radical Christian assertions of Jesus resurrection, ascension, and long-anticipated return. Davis finally addresses Christian thinking about heaven, hell, and purgatory. The philosophical defense of Christianity s core beliefs enables Davis to render a reasonable answer to the eternal question of what happens to us after we die. "After We Die" is essential reading for teachers and students of philosophy, theology, and Bible, as well as anyone interested in a reasoned analysis of historic Christian faith, particularly as it pertains to the inevitable end of each and every human being."

Contributor Bio:  Davis, Stephen T Stephen T. Davis is Russell K Pitzer Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies at Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, California.