The Unfinished Reformation

Reviews

'Allison and Castaldo have provided a book that is both timely and thoughtful--a book that at the same time looks fondly on the Reformation yet asks the important question of these reforms for today. Their approach is especially sensitive to the realities of divided families, one Catholic and one Protestant, yet aware of how Catholics and Protestants find themselves united on struggles to end abortion. This is a book that will educate the novice and provoke thought in the expert.'

'Many Christians are aware that there are fundamental differences between Protestants and Roman Catholics but are unsure exactly what these differences are or how much they really matter. Some may regard them as trivial, while others may struggle to see how there can be Christians in both groups. The Unfinished Reformation sets out clearly and simply where the differences lie. The differences are not minimized, nor are they magnified. Where Protestants have often misrepresented Roman Catholics--his is pointed out. At the same time there is no pretense that no differences exist. This book is to be warmly commended to those wishing to understand these issues better.'

'The Unfinished Reformation is an accessible, well-written explanation of Catholic beliefs, Protestant beliefs, and how the two relate. The layperson can read this book and feel equipped to have well-rounded conversations about faith with his Catholic or Protestant neighbor.'

'This book blows a welcome breeze into the stifling and oppressive debates between Protestants and Catholics. Too often each side labels the other a 'false church' and refuses to see the good the other tradition offers. Allison and Castaldo refuse to be this simplistic--not to mention uncharitable--in their approach. Congenial in their tolerance while never obscuring real differences, the authors lay out the main points of disagreement between these two Christian traditions. If you are a Protestant with a Catholic in your life, or vice versa, you need this book in your library.'

'This book is a model of gracious and principled dialogue, as much for its tone as its content. I heartily recommended it for all who care about theology and the particular conversation between evangelical Protestants and Roman Catholics.'

'This is the best treatment I have read on understanding what continues to unite and divide Catholics and Protestants. While considering the historic roots of the Reformation in the sixteenth century, Gregg Allison and Chris Castaldo also remain sensitive to the significant doctrinal shifts of the twentieth century and our contemporary context. They are informed but not pedantic, accessible but not simplistic. Both scholar and layperson will benefit. I heartily recommend this book to Catholics and Protestants alike who desire an honest and thoughtful way to approach the other side of the 'divided family.''

'What Gregg Allison and Chris Castaldo have done in this important book is unique: they carefully explore the many areas where Protestants and Catholics agree but also disagree. I've seen exhortations to unity, and I've seen polemics for division, but I've never seen one volume deal so well with both commonality and also disagreement. Knowing their personal ministry, though, I'm not surprised that Allison and Castaldo exhibit such grace alongside truth.'