The Actuality of Atonement: A Study of Metaphor, Rationality and the Christian Tradition

Rating:
Summary: metaphorically speaking
Review: In this book, Gunton explores Attonement and the use of metaphors in theological language. He argues that metaphor is needed to engage with the rational world. Overall, I do not agree, but he makes some interesting points. Metaphors are useful in introducing difficult topics, but I feel a rationalist will eventually need a clear, and distinct explanation. Truths and facts are necessary in many cases, especially scientific topics (despite Gunton's defense of scientific metaphor on p. 30). I feel metaphors be more effective for some people than others. Wouldn't a right brain thinker respond differently than a left brain thinker? While the metaphor may bridge the two spheres of thinking, I believe its impact will vary on a case to case bases. Could it be that Christianity's frequent use of metaphor makes it difficult to evangelize to scientist, engineers, and others who claim to be rational thinkers? Metaphors are not always timeless, and many Christian metaphors are dated and out of touch with today's reality. Should these Metaphor's be continually updated to keep them effective? If so, by who's authority (especially in light of their inherent subjectiveness)? Or should we (have we?) canonize metaphors?