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The Monkhood of All Believers
The Monastic Foundation of Christian Spirituality
by Greg Peters
This title was previously available on NetGalley and is now archived.
Pub Date
Nov 06 2018
| Archive Date
Dec 07 2018
Description
Although the institution of monasticism has existed in the Christian church since the first century, it is often misunderstood. Greg Peters, an expert in monastic studies, reintroduces historic monasticism to the Protestant church, articulating a monastic spirituality for all believers.
As Peters explains, what we have known as monasticism for the past 1,500 years is actually a modified version of the earliest monastic life, which was not necessarily characterized by poverty, chastity, and obedience but rather by one's single-minded focus on God--a single-mindedness rooted in one's baptismal vows and the priesthood of all believers. Peters argues that all monks are Christians, but all Christians are also monks. To be a monk, one must first and foremost be singled-minded toward God. This book presents a theology of monasticism for the whole church, offering a vision of Christian spirituality that brings together important elements of history and practice. The author connects monasticism to movements in contemporary spiritual formation, helping readers understand how monastic practices can be a resource for exploring a robust spiritual life.
Although the institution of monasticism has existed in the Christian church since the first century, it is often misunderstood. Greg Peters, an expert in monastic studies, reintroduces historic...
Description
Although the institution of monasticism has existed in the Christian church since the first century, it is often misunderstood. Greg Peters, an expert in monastic studies, reintroduces historic monasticism to the Protestant church, articulating a monastic spirituality for all believers.
As Peters explains, what we have known as monasticism for the past 1,500 years is actually a modified version of the earliest monastic life, which was not necessarily characterized by poverty, chastity, and obedience but rather by one's single-minded focus on God--a single-mindedness rooted in one's baptismal vows and the priesthood of all believers. Peters argues that all monks are Christians, but all Christians are also monks. To be a monk, one must first and foremost be singled-minded toward God. This book presents a theology of monasticism for the whole church, offering a vision of Christian spirituality that brings together important elements of history and practice. The author connects monasticism to movements in contemporary spiritual formation, helping readers understand how monastic practices can be a resource for exploring a robust spiritual life.
Available Editions
EDITION |
Other Format |
ISBN |
9780801098055 |
PRICE |
$27.00 (USD)
|
PAGES |
224
|
Additional Information
Available Editions
EDITION |
Other Format |
ISBN |
9780801098055 |
PRICE |
$27.00 (USD)
|
PAGES |
224
|
Average rating from 2 members
Featured Reviews
Lori T, Librarian
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
Greg Peters, an Evangelical turned Anglican, believes the principles behind monasticism apply to all believers, not just to those who choose a cloistered life. Written for an academic audience, rather than a lay audience, the author includes illustrations from many fathers of the church. He uses Martin Luther from the Reformation period. The book includes nearly 800 endnotes and an extensive bibliography. Although published by a traditional Evangelical publisher, the book is more likely to resonate with a more moderate audience. I suspect a similar book aimed at a lay audience would sell well. I received an advance electronic copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
beth e, Librarian
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
The Monkhood of All Believers by Greg Peters is an ecumenical view of the history of monasticism. Going back to the beginning of monastic monks, Peters allows us to watch the advent and growth of this movement.
The key to becoming a monk has been baptism. It is the only path.
Peters brings this history from ancient times up to and including current practices. He even expands upon the role that monasteries can play in guiding spirituality. A multi-dimensional view that crosses religions helps the reader understand the vastness of the benefits of the monastic life.
It is reassuring to be in the hands of a skilled writer and historian when reading this book. It is inspirational and thoughtful.
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
Featured Reviews
Lori T, Librarian
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
Greg Peters, an Evangelical turned Anglican, believes the principles behind monasticism apply to all believers, not just to those who choose a cloistered life. Written for an academic audience, rather than a lay audience, the author includes illustrations from many fathers of the church. He uses Martin Luther from the Reformation period. The book includes nearly 800 endnotes and an extensive bibliography. Although published by a traditional Evangelical publisher, the book is more likely to resonate with a more moderate audience. I suspect a similar book aimed at a lay audience would sell well. I received an advance electronic copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
3 stars
beth e, Librarian
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
The Monkhood of All Believers by Greg Peters is an ecumenical view of the history of monasticism. Going back to the beginning of monastic monks, Peters allows us to watch the advent and growth of this movement.
The key to becoming a monk has been baptism. It is the only path.
Peters brings this history from ancient times up to and including current practices. He even expands upon the role that monasteries can play in guiding spirituality. A multi-dimensional view that crosses religions helps the reader understand the vastness of the benefits of the monastic life.
It is reassuring to be in the hands of a skilled writer and historian when reading this book. It is inspirational and thoughtful.
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars
4 stars