These Three

These Three reclaims the theological virtues of faith, hope, and love from a Protestant, scriptural perspective. Robinson surveys the current state of the church and the decline of morality and civility in American society; explores the history of the virtues from Greek thought through Aquinas and focuses on three virtues in order to concede that contemporary churches must reclaim and teach the interrelationship of the virtues as our lifelines to God and the good life. ""These Three: The Theological Virtues of Faith, Hope, and Love is a travel companion for those on the Christian path in the contemporary world. The book does not offer obtuse methodological debates or cuddly spiritual assurances. It is not easily categorized as academic theology or popular religious spirituality. Rather, with power and grace, the book provides pathways for Christians to live in a radical relation to God, others, and the world."" --Rebecca Chopp, President and Professor of Philosophy and Religion, Colgate University, Hamilton, New York ""This original and illuminating treatment of the theological virtues makes it clear that faith, hope, and love are to be understood first of all not as demands but as gifts to be received. These three gifts free their recipients for truly human life, as they restore our relationships to one another and to all that is. With her sensitive exploration of Christian tradition and contemporary experience, Robinson makes 'these three'--and our deep need for them--very real."" --Charles M. Wood, Lehman Professor of Christian Doctrine, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas Elaine A. Robinson is Assistant Professor of Theology and Methodist Studies at Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University. She is an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church and lives in Fort Worth.