Customer Reviews

Understanding Christian Theology

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

 

 

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.

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.

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.

Written by several authors who specialize in the topic they wrote. This book brings together the work of ten noted biblical scholars, each committed to bringing their respective area of specialization to the text. In depth treatments in many points that could not find in detail in other one volume theology texts. Easy to understand and very practical. If I could have known this book many years ago, I would have abandoned my other theology texts!!!!!

This book now is out off print and can be ordered only from a few major bookstores or from many small bookstore dealers in the USA. I did buy this book from an Amazon book dealer.

This book is a very good collection of material that requires a slow reading (it can be heavy/thick at times) but is well worth the time. I am far from finished but have really enjoyed the way this book causes me to think and rethink my own position and understanding of foundational theological points. This would make for very good seminary reading but anyone would benefit from reading it.

Swindoll preaches a progressive sanctification which is not biblical. It's instant like your salvation. Go read enterhisrest dot org for a lengthy explanation. I've met only a handful of truly sanctified people in the USA but more outside of the country. Don't be deceived.

This book is so significant and filled with truth to help understand Christianity. I am a bible school teacher and the use of this book is a great addition to my library.

The contents of the book are fairly good, but the design is poor. The pages should be two columns: wide pages with small print requires more eye motion to read and are difficult to skim. The index was made by a computer program and, for a reference style of book, is minus five stars. A reference book needs at least two levels of entry in the index, not words like "God," with hundreds of pages listed, one by one, no grouping such as 100-110, and no idea what any of those pages are about.