Customer Reviews

Summary of Christian Doctrine

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Berkhof's is widely acknowledged to be the best brief systematic theology written in the middle part of this century. It is reliable, balanced, concise. While free of lots of technical excusions, Berkhof was very well versed in the broader theological discussions, both classical and contemporary. As Dutch Reformed, he is more Kuyperian and less rationalist than most Anglo-American reformed theologians who preceded him. Still great for an elder training course, or for a college student preparing for seminary.

For something even more basic for interested laymen, try J I Packer's Concise Theology or R C Sproul.

For something a little older and longer, A. A. Hodge, Outlines of Theology. Of course, Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion is irreplacable.

If you are not up to going through Berkof's full 900 page Systematic Theology, this is the volume you want. It is a broad, brief and succinct summary of most of what is found in the big book. I recommend having both and using this smaller version as a type of index. As you read, if you come across things you want to study more fully, you can dive into the main volume. Berkof is an excellent resource for anyone looking into the reformed faith.

This is one of several purchases. I am enjoying by gifting this book to anyone who want to know about Christianity. The best, succinct and clear book of the sound doctrine.

This writing by Louis Berkhof is of the best systematic theology to be found, even if it is brief. Berkhof, as a Calvinist, brings glory through creation and redemption history to God in this accurate summa of Christian doctrine.

'Since God not only created the world but also upholds it, we naturally pass from the doctrine of creation to that of divine providence. This may be defined as that work of God in which He preserves all His creatures, is active in all that happens in the world, and directs all things to their appointed end. It includes three elements, of which the first pertains primarily to the being (divine preservation), the second to the activity (divine concurrence), and the third to the purpose (divine government) of all things.' p 55

Short, but to the point and sound.

It is very concise, clear to understand.

Especially, "Question for review" was good for summary.

I have Berkhof's larger Systematic Theology but still appreciate this summary. It is a great way to learn the important doctrines of the Christian faith. My recommendation is to read this in one hand and have your (electronic) Bible in the other hand so that you can quickly look up the referenced passages as you are reading. This can really solidify these doctrines. Also included in this summary are review questions and memorization verses for each topic. If you desire to dig deeper then you can reference his larger book.

Short, concise, and helpful. This is a great introduction to theology. It covers a lot of ground in small space and gives the reader lots of Scripture to look up and chew on.

This would be a good book to use for officer training, to provide a theological foundation.

Similar books include Concise Theology by J.I. Packer and Salvation Belongs to the Lord by John Frame.

I received the book on time and in great condition we use it in our theology class this is a great book!