Biblical theologian Terence E. Fretheim weaves key insights from Scripture with theological reflections on the nature and activity of God, God's relationship to the world, and the natural order. Relational language and images fill the various forms of communication that ministry leaders must use to speak about God and God's presence and activity in the world. Fretheim shows the importance of using this kind of language to speak to the realities of life and faith. Each chapter of the book will explore a unique aspect of God's relationship with humanity and the world, including God's faithfulness, concern for our entire selves, promise to be present in both good and bad times, willingness to listen, sharing of power, and desire to allow an open future for all. Filled with authentic reflections and helpful insights, this is a must-read for all want to know and experience more about the nature of God.
Terence E. Fretheim is Professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota.
"Dr. Fretheim invites us to consider the full implications of what it means if God is truly in relationship with us and all creation. Knowing what the elements of a genuine, loving relationship are, what would it mean--in daily life and in times of suffering--if God's relationship with creation is genuine? Warm and full of care for the real concerns of people with questions about God, God So Enters into Relationships That . . . helps us access the rich resources of Scripture for life as it is actually lived." --Annie Edison-Albright, campus pastor, Luther College "Fretheim argues that the God of the Bible is not an absentee landlord up in heaven or a controlling micromanager of every action or event in the world. Instead, the God of Scripture is in an intimate, complex and dynamic relationship of integrity and mutual interaction with the world, with Israel, and with all creatures. In the face of enormous contemporary challenges, Fretheim helps us see how the God of the Bible gives space for human initiative and creativity as well as hope in God's ultimate will and purpose for the world." --Dr. Dennis Olson, Charles T. Haley Professor of Old Testament Theology, Princeton Theological Seminary "In this thoroughly researched gem of a book, Terry Fretheim gathers and advances a lifetime of ranking biblical scholarship. Moving through such theological themes as God's presence, power, and suffering, he guides the reader to matters of practice such as the place of prayer and the epistemic power of hope." --Dr. Paul Sponheim, professor emeritus, Luther Seminary "Professor Fretheim pours decades of theological reflection into this magnificent volume on the relational God. Longtime readers of Fretheim know that his work shines brightest when it engages the God of the Old Testament. This book does precisely that, and with characteristic clarity and insight. I enthusiastically welcome the publication of this volume." --Dr. Michael Chan, professor, Luther Seminary "The title says it all: start with God, move to a God known in relationships, and then.... That is, from there the matter is open-ended. No one portrayal will suffice, so Terry Fretheim provides and develops a list that actually is something of a summation of his biblical theology. This is Fretheim at his best, providing deep theological insight in a clear accessible style." --Dr. Fred Gaiser, professor emeritus, Luther Seminary
