Customer Reviews

Taxonomic Charts of Theology and Biblical Studies

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

The Charts are very useful to bring context to the study of theology, church history and biblical studies. Moreover, they help to identify the various issues and concepts for further study. I found the sections on church history and the historical development of various theological systems to be a great reference. Also, students will find the taxonmic charts helpful in organizing their studies, especially if they are visual learners as they paint "mental maps" of the subject catagories.

The definition section was and nice bonus. In further editions, the author may consider adding the various chart numbers where each definition can be found. This would be a nice enhancement to the overall volume.

Dr. Sawyer has put together a wonderful book. As a pastor, I find it to be an excellent resource. It is without doubt a wonderful tool for any person who is serious about the Scriptures. It does make obscure relationships clear by anchoring theolgy and Biblical studies. The glossary of terms at the end of the book is so helpful. Every chart is complete, precise and informative. I do believe you will use this again and again in all disciplines of Biblical study.

In the same vein as all the "charts" in this series, this volume keeps up the fine quality, ease of use, accuracy, and exceptional applicability. This is the kind of material that a student in theology, religion, or academia would find helpful; with this also being true for the seasoned pastor or instructor.

Part of what makes research so difficult is that there is so much out there, you don't always know where to begin and how to tackle the topic. Sawyer's charts gives you an overview of how various subjects are connected and how those subjects are broken down to specific sub-categories. The visualization of the relationships and sub-categories are valuable in directing you towards what to look for (and not to look for) in your area of theological research.

I initially got this book to better understand relationships between topics in church history and theology. After receiving this book, however, I realized that the purpose of this book wasn't necessarily to add deeper content to my understanding but rather to show relationships between topics that I already knew.

As the title states, this book is filled with taxonomic charts (i.e. charts of classifications) which show relationships between different areas of biblical studies, but it doesn't give you details to deepen your understanding if you haven't already read up on any of these areas of study.

Before you get this book, you may want to consider one of the other Zondervan chart books in this series which are specific to your area of interest, such as "Chronological and Background Charts of Church History" by Robert Walton, or "Charts of Christian Theology & Doctrine" by Dr. H. Wayne House. But even these should be used as supplements to other readings.

If you want an intro to church history or Christian thought, I'm a big fan of the following: "Church History In Plain Language" by Bruce Shelley, and "Exploring Christian Thought" by Tony Lane.

I never realized that a study of the living God could be turned into such confusing charts and stagnant layouts like this. It makes studying God seem like we are studying a car engine or DVD player.