Summary Of Seven Theses By Stephen Boyd

Stephen Boyd writes a very compelling narrative that provides insight into the perspective of white males, or as Boyd more specifically articulates, “white, heterosexual, Anglo-Saxon, Protestant (evangelical), middle-class, middle-aged, southern, able-bodied men.” (10) Although Boyd’s work covers a vast range of topics, he outlines his “seven theses” at the onset of the book. In addition, he provides an outline of the book, wherein he details the book in three parts, as follows: “Part 1 is an elaboration of the development of the dual identities - the lonely warrior and the desperate lover… Part 2 offers an interpretation of Christianity that calls us deeply into ourselves and out over the barricades that isolate us from others.” (15) While in part 3, Boyd describes “potentially transformative processes and spaces” and suggests “ways that love leads us to reconciliation with our bodies and the earth, other men, and women.” (15) For the purpose of this reflection/In my reflection, I will most closely focus on aspects of spiritual responsibility as it relates to the church and Christian theology in practice. I will place greatest emphasis on the responsibility of men, spiritual responsibility of the church, spiritual mentorships, and spiritual friendships with women, as noted in Part 2 and Part 3 of
He says,
“healthy mentor relationships, as well as reconciliation with our fathers, also go a long way toward rehabilitating the image of God as a father. For many men, God as father has meant domination, not justice; intimidation, not strength; manipulation, not wisdom; and absence, not presence. However, as we experience the justness, strength, intelligence, and compassionate connection of men in our lives, the image of God as a just, powerful, wise, and loving father becomes bothe believable and meaningful.”