Flawed Institution—Flawless Church

Contemporary news headlines, as well as the history of the Church, are replete with scandals, unholy acts, and abuses of power. Such a disappointing trend has shaken the faith of many, and made it fashionable to decry the hypocrisy of “organized religion.” Yet despite these massive stumbling blocks, the Church has always insisted, and continues to maintain, that it is none other than the Holy Body of Christ. How can these polarities be reconciled? How can the world’s trust in the Church be renewed in this postmodern era of religious indifference and apathy? How can an obviously flawed institution become the genuine Church, as intended by Jesus Christ? Responding to these questions, the author calls for a critical self-evaluation of the Church in her quest for renewal, presents a much-needed modern interdisciplinary approach to apologetics, and powerfully promotes ecumenism. This scholarly and passionately written book substantiates Christian optimism, and provides a thoughtful and convincing response to the challenges posed by skeptics such as Nietzsche, Freud, Dawkins, and their contemporary intellectual heirs.