The Meaning of the City by Jacques Ellul

ISBN-10: 0853647917
ISBN-13: 9780853647911
UPC: 0853647917

Overview

"The Meaning of the City" by Jacques Ellul offers a profound theological analysis of the city as a symbol of human autonomy and rebellion against God. Drawing on Biblical theology, Ellul explores the city’s dual role as a testament to human creativity and a manifestation of humanity's ultimate rejection of divine authority. This work, a theological counterpoint to Ellul’s seminal "Technological Society," challenges readers to reconsider the spiritual implications of urban life and the city’s place in God’s redemptive plan.

Ellul, a French Reformed sociologist, historian, and lawyer, combines his scholarly expertise with deep Biblical insight to provide a compelling critique of the modern urban condition.

Product Features

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• Dimensions: 5 x 0.75 x 7.75 inches
• Weight: 6.4 ounces
• Publisher: Not specified (Biblical and Theological Classics Library edition)
• Cover Illustration: "Venice: Piazza San Marco and the Colonnade of the Procuratie Nueve"

Key Highlights

1. Biblical Foundations: Firmly rooted in the theology of the Bible, exploring the city’s spiritual and symbolic significance from Genesis to Revelation.
2. Ellul’s Counterpoint: A theological response to the themes explored in "The Technological Society," analyzing the spiritual costs of human independence and manipulation.
3. Sociological and Historical Context: Draws on Ellul’s expertise in sociology and history to connect Biblical insights to modern urban phenomena.
4. Ambiguity of the City: Examines the city as a place of both human creativity and rebellion, revealing its dual nature as a marvel of ingenuity and a symbol of rejection of God.
5. Call to Reform: Offers a vision for how the city, as the home of man’s rebellious heart, can be transformed within God’s redemptive purposes.

Interesting Facts

1. Countercultural Perspective: Challenges prevailing views of urbanization, offering a Biblically grounded critique of modern cities.
2. Ellul’s Legacy: Known for his thought-provoking works on the intersection of technology, sociology, and theology, Ellul’s influence continues to grow among theologians and social critics.
3. Cross-Disciplinary Appeal: Appeals to readers interested in theology, sociology, urban studies, and Christian philosophy.
4. Global Relevance: Though written in the context of post-industrial society, its themes resonate with contemporary challenges of urbanization and secularism.
5. Ellul’s Vision: Portrays the city not just as a problem but as a site of potential redemption and transformation under God’s sovereignty.

Target Audience

• Theologians and students of Biblical studies
• Urban planners and sociologists interested in theological perspectives on the city
• Readers of Jacques Ellul’s other works, particularly "The Technological Society"
• Christians seeking to understand the spiritual significance of urban life

Publishers

Biblical and Theological Classics Library
This series is dedicated to preserving and presenting classic works that explore the intersection of theology and modern life.

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