A significant new contribution to the literature on Paul the Apostle
Church Publishing Incorporated is pleased to announce the publication of Discernment in the Early Church and Today, by John G. Lewis.
Through rigorous analysis and practical insight into Paul’s letters, Lewis—Theologian in Residence for the Iona Collaborative at Seminary of the Southwest—sheds light on the Apostle Paul, not as a controversial polemicist, but as a deeply pastoral theologian committed to moral formation and community building.
Discernment in the Early Church and Today offers a close exegetical reading to demonstrate how today’s churches can apply these fundamental insights to build communities focusing on moral discernment. The book provides concrete strategies for cultivating a vibrant practice of spiritual discernment, making it an indispensable resource for courses in pastoral theology and for leaders seeking to strengthen the moral imagination of their congregations.
According to Kathleen A. Cahalan, Professor of Practical Theology at St. John’s Seminary, “Lewis is a compelling writer, has full command of the subject, and wants churches to thrive, and they just might do so if they knew this ancient wisdom.”
“This book is wholly unique in its conception,” says Ellen Davis, Amos Ragan Kearns Distinguished Professor of Bible and Practical Theology at Duke Divinity School. “With the voices of imaginary pilgrims sounding insights and concerns of perennial importance for the church, Lewis gives authenticity and theological substance to the ancient (and enduring) experience of pilgrimage. This book [is] especially valuable for study groups, teachers, and (literal) tour guides.”
John G. Lewis, author of Looking for Life: The Role of “Theo-Ethical” Reasoning in Paul’s Religion, was the Seminary of the Southwest’s Director of the Iona Collaborative. He has taught New Testament and spirituality courses in graduate schools, seminaries, dioceses, and congregations. Lewis is also Co-Director of St. Benedict’s Workshop in San Antonio, a nonprofit ministry he founded in 2001 to help Christian communities use Scripture to practice discipleship and discernment in all areas of daily life. He holds a PhD in New Testament from the University of Oxford, an M.Div. from Virginia Theological Seminary, and a Juris Doctor from the University of Houston Law Center.
Discernment in the Early Church and Today
Reclaiming Paul’s Vision for Formation and Community Building
9781640657748
Paperback
$29.95
October 2025
288 Pages
About Seabury Books
Seabury Books, an imprint of Church Publishing Incorporated, publishes impactful and inclusive scholarly publishing in religion and theology.
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