Finally a resource to reflect biblically, theologically and morally about the pressing need for health care reform in the United States. Health, Healing and the Church's Mission offers us hopeful and grace-filled ways to think about the extension of Jesus' healing ministry through the practices and commitments of the church. Professor Swartley reminds us these conversations cannot be abstract and aloof. People's lives are at stake.
-Wyndy Corbin Reuschling,
professor of ethics and theology, Ashland Theological Seminary
Sometimes the very best contribution that Christians can make to contemporary public policy disputes is to refuse to engage them according to the terms available in the culture, but instead to return to the riches of our own tradition. That is what Willard Swartley has done so splendidly in this new book. Grounded in personal as well as ecclesial experiences, Swartley engages Scripture, Christian history and mission, and the vexatious problems associated with health care in our own context to offer sober, mature and constructive treatment of a critical issue that has been obscured by being caught up in the partisan vortex. Highly recommended as a work at the intersection of Scripture, mission and Christian ethics.
-David P. Gushee,
Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics, director, Center for Theology and Public Life, Mercer University
Dr. Swartley clearly articulates the profound moral challenges facing the Christian church in response to many of the dilemmas of health care services in America. He does so through the lenses of a thoughtful treatment of biblical and theological perspectives and the rich history of Judeo-Christian engagement in health ministries of many forms. He highlights various alternative models of health services that may offer hope. This book is must reading for religious and institutional health care leaders who are willing to examine and are open to reclaiming the essence of God's reconciling and healing work in this world.
-Rick Stiffney,
president/CEO, Mennonite Health Services Alliance
Health, Healing and the Church's Mission is a unique and refreshing contribution to the discussion of health, healing and the provision of health care. Its comprehensive look at the biblical perspectives and discussion of the moral dilemmas it awakens for all of us is much appreciated. An important read for any person of faith seeking for a biblical grounding on these issues.
-Christine Sine,
author and executive director of Mustard Seed Associates
"Willard Swartley has done the Christian community a huge service by writing a comprehensive, thoughtful and lucid discussion on our biblical and moral responsibility to promote healing and to advocate for a just health care system. His argument goes beyond the usual economic, political and medical arenas by focusing on Christian healing, community and mission.
-Mary J. McDonough,
author of Can A Health Care Market Be Moral? A Catholic Vision
With an eloquent, rational approach, Willard Swartley critiques the current health care industry and persuasively offers a substantive alternative insight into health and healing by incorporating insights from Scripture, varied cultures, historic and religious practices, and contemporary trends. Swartley advances and amplifies the concept of shalom that embodies holistic health and reflects the biblical view of health. This vital and important volume will be valued by health care workers who aspire to experience how Christian faith can meaningfully transform their understanding and practice. I look forward to using this resource as a textbook for students in our biomedicine program.
-Roman J. Miller, Ph.D.,
Daniel B. Suter Endowed Professor of Biology and director of the M.A. in Biomedicine Graduate Program at Eastern Mennonite University
Swartley's holistic approach to the issue of health gives fresh perspectives on both healing in the Christian tradition and current issues of health care reform. Readers who are looking for ways to integrate contemporary questions about health care with a biblical and theological perspective that moves from text to tradition will find many valuable resources in Swartley's work.
-Mary Veeneman, Ph.D.,
assistant professor of biblical and theological studies, North Park University
I deeply appreciate the work Willard Swartley has done to help the church catch a vision for our participation in the health and healing of the world.
-Tracy Taylor,
Englewood Review of Books, Advent 2012
