Daniel Simundson shows how the Bible can speak to the universal human experience of suffering. He examines various biblical responses to suffering and explains what the New Testament can add to the thought of such classic works as the books of Job, Ecclesiastes, and the prophets. This book, written for the general reader, is also full of wisdom for caregivers, including clergy, counselors, and laypersons. Contents:
1. The Basic Biblical View of Suffering
2. The Power of Negative Thinking
3. Suffering for Others
4. God, Job, and the Counselors
5. Is There Any Hope?
6. What Is New in the New Testament?
7. Comfort and Hope
Professor Simundson suggests fresh ways for the resources of the Bible and demands of human life to meet each other.
Faith Under Fire
will be useful to Christians who in times of crisis wonder why and in times of well-being want to reflect on the meaning of life and faith.
-- Walter Brueggemann
This readable and wide-ranging introduction to an important subject will be of great value to Christian laypeople, students, and clergy who are interested in one of the deep mysteries of faith.
-- David M. Gunn This book was originally published by Augsburg in 1980.
Daniel J. Simundson
is Professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. He received his B.D. degree from Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago and his Ph.D. degree from Harvard University, where he was also a teaching fellow. Throughout his career, Simundson has maintained what he considers the equally important roles of pastor and scholar. Among his other books are
The Message of Job
and
Where Is God in My Suffering?