With increasing frequency, mainline Christians are challenged--by televangelists as well as by neighbors, friends, and coworkers--with the question: "Are you saved?" Not only are they stumped for an answer, but they may be unsure of exactly what salvation means. This book examines the concept of salvation in the Hebrew Scriptures and in the New Testament, showing readers that salvation, rather than simply the attainment of a faraway heaven in the afterlife, is also accomplished in the here-and-now through the Gospel of Jesus. In everyday language and an accessible, conversational tone, Saving Salvation helps Christians reach a deeper, more nuanced understanding of salvation than that provided by the dominant religious culture of our day. More than a heavenly reward for "good behavior" or "right belief," Smith says, salvation is also the gift of God's abundant grace-through the love of family and friends, prayer, and service-in a Kingdom experienced here on earth. With its thorough grounding in Scripture, along with reflection questions posted on the Morehouse website, Saving Salvation will serve as an excellent resource for both individual, small group, and parish study. Stephen Smith, an Episcopal priest, is rector a St. Patrick's Church in Dublin, Ohio. A frequent presenter at the Kenyon Summer Conference in Ohio, he has also presented at Epworth Center in Michigan, a highly regarded Methodist conference center.
