A Little Exercise for Young Theologians [Paperback]

Helmut Thielicke (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 5, 1962

Introduction by Martin E. Marty

A veteran theologian and minister offers his wise counsel to beginners in the field on the difficulties of practicing theology in a church often skeptical of theological pursuit. Thielicke stresses the importance of maintaining one's spiritual health in the course of technical theological inquiry.

Product Details

• Paperback: 57 pages
• Publisher: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. (October 5, 1962)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0802811981
• ISBN-13: 978-0802811981
• Product Dimensions: 4.7 x 0.2 x 7.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (23 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #82,434 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

17 of 19 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars Good advice to warn the new theologian November 10, 2000

By Robert Knetsch

Format:Paperback

Helmut Thielicke, well known throughout the theological world for his prolific writing, sermons and theological prowess has written a remarkably gentle and pastoral book that should be essential for anyone venturing into the world of academics and theology.

Perhaps many of us had experience with people who, when they begin theological studies, they have a way about them of thinking they know more than the typical "lay" person, that they have risen above simplistic faith. I too struggle with this feeling as I read the great theologians who are out there. Not that I know more; its just that sometimes I think I do!

His warning and advice, then, comes as a stern but loving warning to be careful and wary. For os it not more important that we be people who help the people of God, rather than divide because of our elitist attitude? Thielicke perhaps not only is writing this to the "young" theologians who read it, but to himself, a man who is steeped in so much knowledge.

An essential and edifying book for all. Read and enjoy.

13 of 14 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Should Be Required Exercises For All Theologians July 29, 2000

By B.D.

Format:Paperback

Even though 20+ years old, timeless wisdom gently whispers from these pages from a veteran theologian. Not only young practitioners should heed this sage preacher's advice, but all who seek to communicate God's truth should re-read this volume at least once a year to review the fundamentals, re-focus on the hows and whys of basic hermeneutics, and abide by the Biblical dictum, "Do not go beyond what is written." Variety at the expense of verity is vanity. This book is must reading at thrice the price!

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars This book, though small in size, is large in content. December 23, 1998

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

The book contains an important message for those interested in the pursit of theologies. Translated from German, it maintains the integrity of the thoughts expressed by the author. Theologians are admonished to not overwhelm the people with the use of knowledge just acquired. A caution about losing focus on the message of the Scriptures being God speaking to mankind is offered. Some may need a dictionary in hand due to some of the words used in the book. One who heeds Thielicke's advice will avoid many mistakes common to young theologians. Don Laughary