Eric O. Jacobsen, Sidewalks in the Kingdom: New Urbanism and the Christian Faith. Brazos Press, 2003.
Related volume: Jacobsen, The Space Between
Referenced in: Urban Ministry
LifeandLeadership.com Summary
This is not a book on urban ministry, but will help those involved in urban settings by conveying the special and desirable features of urban life over against the fear and repulsion felt by many suburban or rural dwellers. Jacobsen builds on the sociology of New Urbanism, which is woven throughout the book but discussed in more detail on the sites below:
In the first section, Jacobsen traces the origin of the antiurban bias in our culture in general and among Christians in particular. From there, he develops a theology of the city from Genesis to Revelation. In the second part, he launches from this biblical foundation to analyze each of six features of the city: shared public spaces, mixed-use neighborhoods, a well-supported local economy, and aesthetic diversity and beauty.
From the Publisher
“This timely, wise, balanced, biblically rooted and practical tract deserves the attention of all Christian citizens who live in cities and suburbs… . A challenging, theologically invigorating, and potentially life-changing stroll down the sidewalks of the kingdom.” – John Bolt, Calvin Theological Journal
There has been much ink spilled in the evangelical community about “claiming our cities for Christ” and plenty of lip service paid to the need to address urban concerns. But according to author and pastor Eric Jacobsen, this discussion has remained far too abstract. His Sidewalks in the Kingdom challenges Christians to gain a practical, informed vision for the city that includes a broad understanding of the needs and rewards of a vital urban community. Building on the principles of New Urbanism, Jacobsen emphasizes the need to preserve the nourishing characteristics of traditional city life, such as shared public spaces, mixed-use neighborhoods, a well-supported local economy, and aesthetic diversity and beauty.
Sidewalks in the Kingdom includes three appendices: a glossary of urban vocabulary, an annotated bibliography of related sources, and a detailed description of the principles and goals of New Urbanism. A companion website with posted discussion questions, www.sidewalksinthekingdom.com, makes it ideal for study groups. Pastors, city-dwellers, and those interested in urban ministry, politics, and development will be both encouraged and informed by Sidewalks in the Kingdom.
About The Series
The Cultural Exegesis series provides methodological and foundational studies that address the way to engage culture theologically. Each volume works within a specific cultural discipline, illustrating and embodying the theory behind cultural engagement. By providing the appropriate tools, these books equip the reader to engage and interpret the surrounding culture responsibly.
About the Author
ERIC O. JACOBSEN is adjunct professor of theology and culture at Fuller Theological Seminary. He previously served as associate pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Missoula, Montana. Jacobsen is a member of the Congress for the New Urbanism.