Rooted in the robust discourse of eminent Canadian philosopher Charles Taylor (A Secular Age), this book takes the reader on a journey of deep reflection and discovery. Many things in today’s culture misdirect, seduce, and confuse younger generations, when they actually need wise mentors with integrity. The discussion clarifies some of the core issues at stake in the late modern identity quest. In the process, it unpacks some of the most profound implications of the miraculous incarnation for personal flourishing. The author introduces us to the power of dialogue with both divine and human interlocutors. We are brought around the table for mutual engagement, while receiving a compelling vision for life. The discussion is deeply embedded in a rich understanding of the Judeo-Christian Scriptures. The effect is to spark a lively faith-and-culture investigation. The crucial question we are left with is this: Do we intend to be our own gods in some gnostic permutation–to invent ourselves from the ground up according to our own individual design? Or, should we investigate a relationship with God and agape love that can be life-transforming, freeing, and anchoring? Which direction will lead to a grounded, resilient identity?
Tentang Penulis
Iain Provan was the Marshall Sheppard Professor of Biblical Studies at Regent College in Vancouver, Canada, from 1997 until 2022, when he retired and founded The Cuckoos Consultancy. He and his wife Lynette have four grown-up children, and numerous grandchildren. Iain was born and educated in the U.K., completing his final degree (Ph D) at the University of Cambridge in 1987. His subsequent academic teaching career prior to emigrating to Canada took him to King’s College London, the University of Wales, and the University of Edinburgh. Iain has written numerous books, essays and articles. He is an ordained minister of the Church of Scotland; a Life Member of Clare Hall, Cambridge (since 1993); and the recipient of an Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowship in Germany (ongoing since 1996). He is also a qualified Provincial B Licence soccer coach (in British Columbia) and an ARA rowing coach (in the UK). His main hobby is fly-fishing. You can find out more about him – and also about the Cuckoos Consultancy – at his website, iainprovan.ca.