Provides a new Christian apologetic for our time. The author considers the condition of humanity: its brokenness and pain, and the human struggle with evil in its many forms; and explains the meaning of transformation as taught by St Paul and lived out by countless Christian believers. It is a lively presentation of the doctrine of man for our own times.

George Cary, former Archbishop of Canterbury
“Becoming Fully Human is a readable, enjoyable yet serious description of human beings before Almighty God because, let’s be clear about it, if this life is all, then all is futile and nothing is of value... Patrick’s intelligent book emanates not only from much reading and deep thought about the subject but from many years of ministry in which he has seen much suffering and too much human sinfulness. He has also witnessed time and again the overwhelming love and grace of God expressed in the majestic and attractive life of Jesus Christ. That person, Jesus Christ, is the model for human nature. It is my hope, and certainly that of the author, that this book will lead many to him.”

John Matthias, The Bookseller Magazine
“It you like your theology direct, engaging, thought-provoking and completely understandable, then you should read this book. It is, quite simply, the best book on the ‘Doctrine of Man’ I have ever read and I can’t recommend it highly enough. Patrick Whitworth analyses the reasons behind the human condition, the struggle we face to regain the lost image of God and then lays out exactly how and where we can recover our true humanity. His discussion of human sinfulness using the classic model of the ‘Seven Deadly Sins’ is excellent, showing the contrast between what we are and what we should be without advocating a cloying legalism. This is Christian apologetic of a rare type, meeting issues head on but using a light touch that forced many a wry smile from me. Many new books arrive heralded as a ‘new classic’, but this book deserves to have such a tagline. In fact it is so good that having finished it I am tempted to start reading it again immediately.”

Douglas Dales - Senior Chaplain at Marlborough College/Head of Religious Studies for The Church Times
“The writer carries a great deal of reading lightly, and his range of reference is eclectic, in a way that should extend the horizons and sympathies of the reader.
This is essentially a pastoral book, and it will be of great value to all those engaged in ministry and education, especially among the young at school and in university. It is an authentic and sensitive witness to a compassionate presentation of the gospel over many years, rooted in a strong family life and parochial ministry.
It is a good example of the way in which a truly Evangelical approach within Anglicanism can so often do great justice to some of the most distinctive features of that tradition. The inclusive pastoral approach, the prayerful apprehension of the Bible and its moral teaching, and the humble coming alongside people in their individual confusion and hurt are all hallmarks of an effective ministry of the best kind, with long historical roots behind it.
The writer has made available a wealth of insight and experience. It is altogether a very heartening contribution of the pastoral ministry and witness of the Church, and would be of the utmost value to anyone engaging in a time of retreat or a review of his or her own spiritual life or ministry.”

© 2011 Patrick Whitworth. All Rights Reserved.