In THE HEART OF CHRISTIANITY, Marcus Borg addresses people who have turned away from traditional beliefs about God, Jesus and the Bible, and still long for a faith that is relevant today. He speaks to those who want a nourishing faith that can transform their lives and relationship to God.

Professor Borg suggests to all who have trouble accepting the old faith language, two paradigms: The Earlier Paradigm and the Emerging Paradigm, using the same Bible and language. Jesus said to Nicodemus, "You must be born again." This is about a new relationship with God. The new birth language should not be held captive by Fundamentalists. (Chapter Six).

Our nation is more pluralistic than ever, with six million Muslim Americans, as many as Presbyterians and Episcopalians combined. The last chapter addresses pluralism. Borg lists other new neighbors, Buddhists, Hindus and Sikhs. Is the Christian faith still viable? The "emerging paradigm," formed by an historical, metaphorical and sacramental interpretation of our faith, makes possible a new relationship with God. It also helps one to make sense of being a passionate Christian in a sea of pluralism.