Paul Tillich (1886-1965), regarded as one of the great theologian/philosophers of the 20th century, fled Germany in 1933 to teach at Union Theological Seminary in NY. He became a University Professor at Harvard. He wrote 14 books plus a 3-volume Systematic Theology and 3 volumes of sermons.

This excellent (but difficult to read) little book (1st published in 1957) gives a deep understanding of faith. Ch 1, “What Faith Is,” describes it as “ultimate concern” (or God); he explains in detail why he uses this term; he discusses it as a centered act, its source and dynamics, and why doubt and community are crucial. Ch 2, “What Faith Is Not,” describes three distortions of the meaning of faith: intellectualistic, voluntaristic, and emotionalistic. Ch 3, “Symbols of Faith,” explains why symbols are necessary and what they are. Ch 4, “Types of Faith”, describes its elements, dynamics, and the unity of the two types of faith. Ch 5, “The Truth of Faith,” discusses faith and reason and why they are both essential for truth. Ch 6, “The Life of Faith,” explains why courage, love and action are vital to true faith.

Its depth and his writing style makes this book a hard read. I cannot fairly summarize it, as it is so rich and full of profound insights. It is likely to disturb many readers as it will force them to reconsider carefully the true meaning of the word faith – Paul Tillich takes it so far beyond mere “belief” (as it should be!) and explains why our primary access to the “ultimate concern” is through symbols and myths (such as our written scriptures and sacraments) that were created to help us come closer to the transcendent reality that surpasses all understanding. But he will take you closer to this reality. I regard this book as essential reading for all people of faith, in spite of it being a hard read. Thus I give this superb book a high recommendation.