New Adam: The Future of Male Spirituality

By Philip L. Culbertson and Philip L. Culbertson

With its deft explanations of male psychology, its profound encounters with five biblical "texts of terror" for men, and its pioneering of new ways in men's prayer and men's groups, Culbertson's book enables men to come to terms wtih issues of justice, friendship, sexuality, and love in their lives. His book will help men to craft a new spirituality, to achieve a new integrity and, ultimately, to create a new identity.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0800625129
• ISBN13: 9780800625122
• Release Date: January 1992
• Publisher: Fortress Press
• Length: 184 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.5" x 0.5" x 5.5"

Customer Reviews

Great read and still relevant

This is a deeply spiritual read, and one that is still relevant today. The book is sensitive to and often informed by feminism. It makes a point of acknowledging that feminism has done wonders for society, yet many men are left confused about how masculinity and maleness are to be redefined in order to address the demands for equality and justice of the feminist movement. Culbertson divides his book into two sections. Firstly, after an introduction to the concept of male spirituality and some of the issues men are facing today, he jumps into an analysis of the various "texts of terror" for men. I particularly enjoyed Culbertson's creativity in regards to the story of David and Absalom, in which he paints David as the emotionally absent father who "retreats to his professional role" as the King. Culbertson illustrates lucidly how these various texts have relevance for men today in understanding the complex relationships they are a part of. The second section is more focused on the issues encountered when attempting to practice a masculine spirituality, for instance, the numerous "stumbling blocks" common to men that have to be dealt with in prayer. Culbertson includes a section on starting men's groups that draws from his own personal experience. By the end of his book, 'New Adam' is ready to be born, ready to experience a new relational masculine identity. Overall New Adam uses clear language that I would not expect to be over anyone's head. Culbertson uses vivid examples and explains technical terms and concepts in detail. The book challenged me to rethink certain aspects of my spirituality, for example, to see prayer as a fluid, or circular process, rather than following my deeply ingrained habit of linear thinking. As I live in New Zealand, I did find this book somewhat 'Americanized'. Although this was not a problem for me, I mention it because I know that Culbertson has increased his cultural awareness over the years which is reflected by his later works. Nonetheless, this is a remarkable book still relevant to the myriad of spiritual-seeking men out there today. Well worth the read!