Full Description
While the health of the body can be defined by its functioning parts and systems, the health of the person is more complex. To flourish, we need to understand health in the context of God's intent.
A Theology of Health presents a Christian understanding of the very concept of health, both the health of the body and the health of the person. Preeminent scholar Tyler J. VanderWeele argues that health can be understood as wholeness as intended by God and that sin—whether individual wrongdoing, societal injustice, or the fallenness of creation—causes ill health. VanderWeele explains that restoration and fulfillment of health is salvation, pointed toward in the life of Jesus Christ, to be lived out through the work of the Church, and for which we await final completion. VanderWeele also demonstrates the broader relevance and implications of his insights to all who seek to understand health, well-being, and the ultimate ends of human life.
A Theology of Health is an essential theological exploration that seeks to promote health, healing, and flourishing of the whole person.
Contents
Preface
Part 1. Health and Wholeness
Introduction. Health as Wholeness
1. The Health of Persons and Human Flourishing
2. The Health of the Body
3. Health, Unity, and Goodness
4. Health and Community
5. Health and Spiritual Well-Being
6. Health and Responsibility
7. The Implications of Health as Wholeness
Part II. Ill Health and Sin
Introduction. Ill Health as the Absence of Wholeness
1. Agency, Sin, and Ill Health
2. Injustice and Ill Health
3. Fallenness and Ill Health
4. Sin and Death
5. Incapacity and Sin
6. Ill Health and Suffering
7. The Implications of Ill Health and Sin
Part III. Healing and Salvation
Introduction. Healing as the Restoration of Wholeness
1. Healing of Persons and Healing from Sin
2. Healing and Love
3. Healing and Jesus Christ
4. The Church, Community, and Healing
5. The Limits of Healing
6. God, Resurrection, and Salvation
7. The Implications of Healing and Salvation
A Nontheological Postscript
Appendix
Propositional Outline
Brief Glossary Concerning Health and Illness
References
