Embrace: The Drama of Exclusion
As part of our conversations on Human Sexuality, we have been asked for more on the theology of inclusion. We have already looked at Jesus’ approach in the A Bigger Table teaching series, so this series will build on it using the classic book Exclusion and Embrace by Miroslav Volf. In it, he explores how Christian faith speaks to the deep divisions in our world—ethnic conflict, personal alienation, and social fragmentation. Writing out of the trauma of the Yugoslav wars, Volf addresses how followers of Christ can live faithfully in a world marked by violence, exclusion, and "the other." The central thesis is that embrace, not exclusion, is the shape of God’s love and the model for Christian engagement with others—even enemies. Volf contends that Christians must extend the same grace and welcome to others that God has extended to them through Christ. Key concepts include how people are treated as “other”, the need for welcoming the other, the place of truth telling, repentance and forgiveness, Christian identity rooted in the self-giving love of the crucified Christ, and the Trinitarian nature of God. The book, and this series, calls for a vision of community rooted in hospitality, forgiveness, and humility, where identities are not erased but transformed through Christ. Christians are urged to resist cycles of revenge and seek reconciliation that reflects God’s embrace of humanity in Jesus. This is relevant to much more than issues relating to sexuality – it is important for who we are and how we act as God’s people in a time where so much is polarised. Volf’s book is weighty theology and we will be seeking to make it accessible through the preaching. If small groups wish to explore further, Stuart can provide summaries of what will be covered each week and some questions for discussion. People are welcome to read the book themselves but be warned it is over 400 pages and expensive!
Preaching Dates
• 07 Sep The Drama of Exclusion - Genesis 4:1–16; Ephesians 2:11–22
o Reading Plan – Chapters 1-7
• 21 Sep God’s Embrace of the Other - Luke 15:11–32; Romans 5:6–11
o Reading Plan – Chapters 8-15
• 05 Oct The Cross as the Space of Embrace - 2 Corinthians 5:16–21; Philippians 2:5–11
o Reading Plan – Chapters 16-24
• 19 Oct The Will to Embrace - Identity Transformed - Galatians 3:26–29; Colossians 3:9–15
o Reading Plan – Chapters 25-32
• 02 Nov Forgiveness, Memory, and Justice - Matthew 18:21–35; Micah 6:6–8
o Reading Plan – Chapters 33-39
• 16 Nov Aug Living the Embrace - Revelation 7:9–17; John 17:20–23
o Reading Plan – Chapters 40-48