A House Divided: Engaging the Issues Through the Politics of Compassion

by Mark Feldmeir – Chalice Press

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“. . . a clarion call for critical thinking and critical action that are well grounded in and informed by faith.” —Walter Brueggemann, Columbia Theological Seminary

“. . . Feldmeir creatively addresses some of our most divisive issues by building on agreed-upon principles, or axioms, in order to begin conversation that is both realistic and mutually compassionate.” —The Most Rev. Michael B. Curry, Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church and author of The Power of Love and the upcoming Love is the Way

An exploration of eight of the most divisive issues of our day

Climate change, immigration, medical aid in dying, Islamic extremism, racism, healthcare, homosexuality, and preventing suicide.

In our current culture of conflict, Americans need a better way of relating to one another and responding to controversial issues; a way that transcends political partisanship and emphasizes universal care, mutual concern, and the flourishing of the common good.

In A House Divided, Feldmeir suggests that the solution to our political entrenchment is a shared commitment to practicing a politics of compassion; the motivating, unifying ideals of the gospel that insist that we work together for the benefit of the common good.

“Feldmeir offers well-reasoned insights into many of the issues that paralyze our national resolve to seek the common good.” —Philip Amerson, President-Emeritus, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

Each chapter includes a study guide for small group conversations.

“In a time of sharp divisiveness when our old certitudes are profoundly in jeopardy, Mark Feldmeir offers a clarion call for critical thinking and critical action that are well grounded in and informed by faith. He ducks none of the important questions, but brings to them his wisdom, his passion, and his proper sense of urgency.  This clear accessible book merits close attention. It will serve well for pastors, congregations, and other folk who care about our future in a world that at present is becoming more and more unlivable. Feldmeir shows a way past our present failure into new healthy social possibility.” – Walter Brueggemann, Columbia Theological Seminary

“In the midst of so much division all around us, pastor and author Mark Feldmeir creatively addresses some of our most divisive issues by building on agreed-upon principles, or axioms, in order to begin conversation that is both realistic and mutually compassionate. And the materials he shares for further study by small groups or individuals is icing on the cake! We need tools like this.” – The Most Rev. Michael B. Curry, Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church and author of The Power of Love and the upcoming Love is the Way

“For Christians, persons of other faith traditions, and those who bring no presumption of belief, A House Divided awaits.  It will challenge, delight and become an invaluable resource.  In this small volume, Mark Feldmeir offers well-reasoned insights into many of the issues that paralyze our national resolve to seek the common good.  For those fed up with simplistic religious shibboleth, or, worse yet, the soft bigotries that flow from too many pulpits, this is an antidote.”  – Philip Amerson, President-Emeritus, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

“The Rev. Mark Feldmeir has given thoughtful people of faith a fine and timely gift, with the publication of ‘A House Divided’.  You can hear the strong preaching voice which first shaped these meditations.  Also and more so you can unmistakably recognize the pastoral experience and rumination out of which the chapters have come–this itself makes the book a real stand out.  The clarity of expression and of order, both of the book as a whole, and within each chapter, carry a particular power as well.  And his call to compassion, segment by segment, ‘axiom by axiom’, is much needed, a balm in Gilead, in our time.  I expect many church study groups, including one of our own here in Boston, will find this a welcome addition to the reading list.” 
– Robert Allan Hill, Dean, Marsh Chapel, Boston University

“The Bible speaks again and again about the supreme value of wisdom. But in light of the mess our world is in, wisdom appears to be in short supply these days. That’s why you, your small group, your class, and your whole congregation would by wise to read Mark Feldmeir’s new book. It invites us to turn down the talk radio and cable news know-it-alls, and instead, to come together, reason together, and listen for the wisdom that we need. You might even buy a copy for a person “on the other side of the aisle” and use it as a basis for intelligent conversation. Our future depends upon it!” 
– Brian D. McLaren, author/speaker/activist