Understanding Christian Theology [Hardcover]

Charles R. Swindoll (Editor), Roy B. Zuck (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 25, 2003

A Clear, Comprehensive Introduction to Basic Biblical Doctrines

Experts in their respective fields provide an authoritative perspective on the fundamentals of theology. Extensive treatment of all the classic areas of theological concern-God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, man, sin, salvation, sanctification, the Scriptures, the church, and more.

Contributing authors include:

Robert Gromacki

Earl Radmacher

John Witmer

Robert Saucy

John Walvoord

Robert Lightner

J. Carl Laney

Robert Pyne

Ed Hayes

Henry Holloman

Product Details

• Hardcover: 1408 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 25, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0785250328
• ISBN-13: 978-0785250326
• Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.4 x 2.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.4 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 3.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #737,509 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Dr. Charles R. Swindoll is senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church, chancellor of Dallas Theological Seminary, and the Bible teacher on the internationally syndicated radio program Insight for Living. He has written more than thirty best-selling books, including STRENGTHENING YOUR GRIP, LAUGH AGAIN, THE GRACE AWAKENING, and the million-selling GREAT LIVES FROM GOD'S WORD series. Chuck and his wife, Cynthia, live in Frisco, Texas.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

29 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Not too bad..., May 9, 2004

By 

theologicalresearcher "theologicalresearcher" (Canada) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Understanding Christian Theology (Hardcover)

Here is a systematic theology that combines pastoral concern with theological scholarship. The book is a sum of contributions from several dispensational scholars. (Actually, the book is a combination of previous works put together.) Unlike many modern systematic theology books, this one is very practical and will be very useful for pastors or laypeople (not to mention that it is quite easy to read). The book covers all the major topics in systematic theology (from bibliology to eschatology). Though it is true that the dispensational system is slowly losing scriptural warrant and credibility, this book should not be passed by. Even Walvoord's section on eschatology is quite sane compared to the off-the-wall books on end times that are out there. Readers should realize that dispensational scholars are not dummies but really know their stuff. Unfortunately, many think that adhering to the dispensational system automatically puts one in the unsophisticated anti-intellectual category (however, many outstanding biblical scholars [e.g., Darrell Bock, Daniel Wallace, etc.] are dispensational). The only criticism, as pointed out below, is that the index could have been organized better. Instead of only major topics being referenced, the editors should have referenced sub-topics too. This book will be a nice addition to any Christian library. It may not be technical, but the pastoral spirit that comes out of every chapter makes this a very good reference for those who want to strengthen their faith and understand the basics of conservative evangelical Christianity.

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An Overview of Dispensational Theology, January 20, 2009

By 

Michael Kear (Enid, Oklahoma) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

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This review is from: Understanding Christian Theology (Hardcover)

This is a very nice one-volume overview of dispensational theology. The large volume is actually made up of ten separate and previously written books which have been brought together to form one systematic theology. The point of view is dispensationalism of the Dallas Theological Seminary variety. Because it is made of of 10 different books (and authors), it is extremely readable one section at a time. Not nearly as detailed as Lewis Sperry Chafer's unabridged Systematic Theology.

If you aren't a dispensationalist but want a single systematic theology as represenative of that genre of theology, this is an excellent choice.

If you are a dispensationalist, you'll also want Charles Ryrie's Basic Theology, Chafer's Systematic Theology, and perhaps Norman Geisler's 4-volume Systematic Theology as well. But this is a great place to start.

Very nice hardcover binding - I believe it is mylar. The print is small, but not unusually so for a 1,400 page theological book. Very readable.

14 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Comprehensive & Dynamic, November 2, 2005

By 

Reginald L. Clay "4Jesus" (Little Rock, Ar) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Understanding Christian Theology (Hardcover)

I've read a few theology books and this one stands out. A great compilation of doctrines along with pastoral notes. Any serious pastor or teacher must have this book in their library; rich in history and bible verses outlined. ***** Stars.