There are many thoughtful reviews from the various sides on this subject.
In Professor Noll's book, I find a theme that holds various Protestant academics these days. I have heard Noll and have read him over the past 15 or so years. This book is a continuation of his thoughts on The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind. And, it is more of a cultural study than a substantive theological study, as KonaChris points out. While still an Evangelical, his tone for many years has been very critical revealing his doubt (it is an "our fault" mindset). Also important to note, he has left the Evangelical Wheaton for the Catholic Notre Dame.
While he does note some historical milestones and more recent rapprochement (e.g. abortion and other traditionalist concerns), he talks more in headlines than at the substance level of the differences. And, while Noll discusses better relations, it is primarily in the North American context, which has a very strong anti-religious influence now and is a main influence behind the rapprochement.
It is important to note that American politics has had a strong pull here. The Kennedy election was the cultural milestone split between Protestants; whereas, the Roe v. Wade decision tended to be the split within Roman Catholic circles. Even now, conservative religionists tend to be more politically united; whereas, liberal religionists tend to be similar on the other side - nevertheless, the subjectivity of it all, makes it near impossible to document the full trend. Cultural ties are not as separate as in past times and that goes for all sides. Consumer culture tends to send out the loudest drone; but the religious is strong, yet often times submerged by other interests.
It should be said that ECT, for all of its notation, was not official and has lost much of its currency. In addition, anti-Protestant comments by the pope have not helped the breach either.
For future readers, Noll's book will reveal the mindset of certain people from our era concerning religion and social life, largely due to a vacuity in religion. It is the tension of doubt.
Noll's underlying theme seems to be in his lost confidence in justification by faith alone - faith on Christ alone, not a sacramental system. Frankly, the theological analysis is not good toward honest historical and foundational inquiry (where are the Scriptural texts?). And while ecclesiology is important, it is not the main issue between the two camps (this issue is normally a tactic of Roman Catholic apologists). While this will be divisive, we must determine whether or not we care about the eternal destinations and the value of our neighbor's soul, friend or enemy.
That is why the Reformation happened and that is why it needs to continue for the Christian faith as it was intended to be for all generations.
The Word of God matters...
... and so do you!
I am a Catholic theologically, artistically and culturally; and though I love my Evangelical brothers and sisters, I am sometimes confused by them. This book has been wonderfully helpful to me in seeking to understand them. Christian unity is of the deepest importance to me. I'm amazed by the scope of our common ground. All Mark Noll's books are eloquent and informative and enlightening. This book, written with Carolyn Nystrom, has given me a new perspective on religious controversy, especially in America. Let me also recommend the works of Walter Cardinal Kasper on ecumenism. The works of Noll, and the works of Kasper, strike me as reflecting an authentic Christian voice, a voice that is patient, a voice that is kind.
