Inside communities, outside conventions: What is at stake in doing theology? (A 21st-century assessment and renewal of theological enterprise)

When the way to preceed is uncertain and vision is hampered, we need to mak e a new compass to provide orientation and direction for assessment and ren ewal of theological enterprise. After sketching key challenges of the postm odern global terrain for theological work and community, I offer four "poin ts" (practices) that have power to locate and guide Christian theologies an d ethics toward 21st-century negotiations of "a new global commons," shared public spaces dedicated to a less violent and more mutual common life. I c ontend that what is at stake for those doing theology and ethics is relatin g to the crises of postmodern context in ways that express and practice the bearing of God's love in the world by shaping justice in communities where domination is resisted and religious practice can be both positive and sub versive.