This volume brings together a decade of reflection at the intersection of culture, economics, and theology. Addressing topics ranging from the family to work, politics, and the church, Jordan J. Ballor shows how the Christian faith calls us to get involved deeply and meaningfully in the messiness of the world. Drawing upon theologians and thinkers from across the great scope of the Christian tradition, including Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, Abraham Kuyper, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and engaging a variety of current figures and cultural phenomena, these essays connect the timeless insights of the Christian faith to the pressing challenges of contemporary life.
"Ballor's eloquent voice will challenge us to think hard, even if we do not concur with all of his ideas. Because this is a tricky book to describe in terms of its ideological direction, it cannot be easily categorized, making it ideal for us to deepen and exercise our discernment about faithful public life."
--Byron Borger, Capital Commentary
"Thoughtful readers will benefit from Jordan Ballor's essays that carry us from HBO's Deadwood to Christ's death on the cross, explaining in the process our culture and the dirty jobs that need doing."
--Marvin Olasky, Editor in Chief, World News Group
"Get Your Hands Dirty is a must-read for those interested in the intersection of faith, culture, and economics. It's an insightful piece that is both provocative and encouraging--it will spur you both to think hard and to take action. I welcome its publication and look forward to seeing it get a wide reading."
--Scott Rae, Dean of Faculty, Talbot School of Theology