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The book "Migrations of the Sacred: God, State, and the Political Meaning of the Church" by William T. Cavanaugh is a compilation of nine works that address topics such as the relationship between the Church and the State, the migration of the sacred towards the state and capitalism, and the critique of American exceptionalism. The author proposes the creation of small local and translocal political communities as a solution. The book presents an abstract and difficult-to-understand writing style, and uses theological concepts such as the sinful condition of the Church. The text criticizes the approach of the book "Migrations of the Sacred" for its lack of historical sense and realism. The lack of European bibliography on a European topic such as the state is mentioned. The claim that the Church in Ireland was part of the coercive apparatus of the state is also questioned, as no evidence is presented. In addition, the author's simplifying use of the terms "liberalism" and "democracy" is criticized. The text discusses the lack of nuances when thinking about concepts such as liberalism and politics. The idea that Hobbes' thinking in the 17th century is linearly applicable to current mentality is criticized. It is mentioned that the wording of the text is dense and confusing for the average reader. The distinction between Christianity and Christendom is also questioned, arguing that the opposition between the two is a historical simplification. Furthermore, it is mentioned that Christendom was not limited to a Catholic institution, but also included Jewish areas and Muslim states subordinate to Christian kingdoms. The text analyzes the relationship between Christendom and the state, highlighting the influence of the Church on culture and society. It questions whether a Christian kingdom would be better off outside of Christendom and raises the existence of real alternatives. The imposition of an ethics by the state is also criticized, and the lack of freedom of conscience is mentioned. The author concludes that the Church must reclaim its authority and not submit to the nation-state. The importance of the autonomy of social institutions is emphasized, and pluralism in a healthy society is mentioned. [Extracted from the article]

The book review discusses Gregg Okesson's book, "A Public Missiology: How Local Churches Witness to a Complex World." Okesson argues for a public missiology that moves beyond individual salvation and focuses on understanding and engaging with publics. He emphasizes the interwoven nature of public life and the need for churches to witness to these publics. The book explores the theoretical and theological basis for a public missiology and provides case studies to illustrate what public witness might look like. While the book is seen as a welcome challenge to individual witness, the reviewer suggests that it could go further in embracing the complexity and messiness of being public. [Extracted from the article]

Jenny Leith's book, "Political Formation: Being Formed by the Spirit in Church and World," explores the question of how to live as disciples in a post-Christendom era. Leith challenges the traditional view that Christian formation primarily occurs within the church, arguing that Christians are formed by the Spirit both within the church and in the world. She proposes three "twin callings" for the church: to be a household and a political community, to be confident and humble, and to gather and scatter. Leith also examines the role of political engagement in formation and discusses the church's potential role in civic identity and national polity. While the book provides valuable insights and ideas, it lacks substantial engagement with biblical topics. Overall, it offers a new paradigm for understanding the interaction between the church and the world and invites further exploration and work on this vision. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a book review of "Zwingli: God's Armed Prophet" by Bruce Gordon. The reviewer praises the book for its portrayal of Huldrych Zwingli, a key figure in the Reformation. Zwingli is depicted as a visionary and a divisive figure, armed with personal capabilities and attributes such as intellect, musical talent, and persuasive preaching. The book explores Zwingli's early life, his ministry in Zurich, his theological views, and the opposition he faced. The reviewer recommends the book for its thorough analysis and accessible writing style. [Extracted from the article]

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