Alvin J. Schmidt Boeken

Reading the Tapestry proposes a literary-rhetorical, temporal process of reading the fourth Gospel’s resurrection narrative (John 20-21) from the perspective of the implied reader in the text, according to the strategies of the implied author. Informed by narrative criticism and reader response criticism, Larry Darnell George unpacks the narrative and rhetorical devices of the three episodes and twelve scenes and argues that the entire resurrection narrative represents a finely woven tapestry, a coherent unified narrative text on its own terms and as it now stands.

The book explores the significant shift in attitudes towards cremation among Christians, highlighting how rising cremation rates in the West contrast sharply with historical opposition to the practice. It details the reasons behind this rejection, tracing back to the early days of Christianity in pagan Rome, where burial became the norm. The influence of Christian beliefs led to a cultural transformation, making earth burial the accepted method of disposing of the deceased. The text also discusses the implications of this change on the concept of cemeteries and Christian practices surrounding death.

The book explores how patriarchal and hierarchical views of gender emerged from agrarian culture, revealing historical and cultural biases that portray women as unequal and inferior. It draws on insights from sociology, anthropology, history, and biblical studies to challenge these traditional perspectives. Aimed at theologically conservative Christians, it serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to reconsider the relationship between theology and gender, promoting a deeper understanding of women's roles within a faith context.

An improved, updated edition of a much-needed reference work in an increasingly pluralistic world where all kinds of unconventional religious groups abound. Formerly published as Dictionary of Cults, Sects, Religions, and the Occult.