Customer Reviews

Dictionary of Theological Terms: A Ready Reference of Over 800 Theological and Doctrinal Terms

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Written from a fundamental, reformed viewpoint, Dr Alan Cairns provides a conservative, concise and accurate resource for the theology student in this well-written volume. There are not many definitive, fundamental, as well as faithful, theological dictionaries available these days; most are usually written to appeal to the general masses of professing, ecumenical "Christendom". Alan Cairns gives a reformed perspective of numerous theological terms, allowing the student to have quick assess to the gist of the subject matter. Useful for both laymen and college students, the definitions are reliably biblical. Dr Cairns does not provide a potpourri of definitions, leaving the student to grasp at straws. He expounds that old time fundamentalist truth in a clear, yet easily digestible format in all its theological intricacies. If the reader is looking for a dictionary that pussyfoots around compromising views, or a volume that condones anything or everything, this is not the right book.

I was looking for a straight up dictionary for the theological terms that eluded me. What I found was that the author frequently succumbs to the temptation to put his spin on the topics. It makes it hard to trust him on the terms that you know nothing about.

Alan Cairns' Dictionary of Theological Terms is the most useful ready reference that I have used. It is committed to the inspiration, infallibilty, and sole-sufficiency of Scripture. It is a mine of Biblically-grounded answers.

If you are looking for a Theological Dictionary (TD) that covers Reformed theological terms, then this is a good reference. This is not a good reference if you are looking for a theological dictionary that doesn't express bias and dwells within the boundaries of a dictionary by simply defining terminology, and when necessary, surveying different views regarding the use and application of theological terms. For example, under the heading of "Prevenient Grace," after a brief survey of definitions, the author writes, "All these theories of prevenient grace are deficient. The Arminian and evangelical views appear to be weak attempts to evade the force of the Reformed doctrine of irresistible grace and effectual calling." The author expresses his opinion without argument by accepting a premise as a conclusion. This is begging the question, a fallacy of argumentation.

At any-rate, this type of bias is played throughout this work, and wrecks what really could have been a fine reference. If you are looking for a TD that does cover Wesleyan-Arminian theological terms and concepts, look to the Beacon Dictionary of Theology published by Beacon Hill Press.

If you are looking for a Theological Dictionary (TD) that covers Reformed theological terms, then this is a good reference. This is not a good reference if you are looking for a theological dictionary that doesn't express bias and dwells within the boundaries of a dictionary by simply defining terminology, and when necessary, surveying different views regarding the use and application of theological terms. For example, under the heading of "Prevenient Grace," after a brief survey of definitions, the author writes, "All these theories of prevenient grace are deficient. The Arminian and evangelical views appear to be weak attempts to evade the force of the Reformed doctrine of irresistible grace and effectual calling." The author expresses his opinion without argument by accepting a premise as a conclusion. This is begging the question, a fallacy of argumentation.

At any-rate, this type of bias is played throughout this work, and wrecks what really could have been a fine reference. If you are looking for a TD that does cover Wesleyan-Arminian theological terms and concepts, look to the Beacon Dictionary of Theology published by Beacon Hill Press.

I came across this book, (more appropriately stated versus a
"dictionary" may I add)in our parish library, and had it removed
after careful examination of the author's premise.

I was sorely disappointed largely due to the bias and biggotry
of the author, Ala Cairns. He promotes religious norms; clearly
an adversary to modern doctrines.To author a dictionary compells
an all encompassing, substantive, impartial presentation that
in essence proficiently speaks "definitively" and reflects an
ecumenical perception and understanding. One would be
well advised to hone their knowledge of theological terms via
a well-balanced, non-subjective source, in sync with the Here
and Now. True knowledge is not limited in scope. Blessings to
all who DO NOT buy this book! >Fr. John O'Brien, M.Div.