An Invitation to Analytic Christian Theology

by Thomas H. McCall

Publisher:

IVP Academic

, 2015

Overview

In recent decades a new movement has arisen, bringing the conceptual tools of analytic philosophy to bear on theological reflection. Called analytic theology, it seeks to bring a clarity of thought and a disciplined use of logic to the work of constructive Christian theology.

In this introduction to analytic theology for specialists and nonspecialists alike, Thomas McCall lays out what it is and what it isn't. The goal of this growing and energetic field is not the removal of all mystery in theology. At the same time, it insists that mystery must not be confused with logical incoherence.

McCall explains the connections of analytic theology to Scripture, Christian tradition and culture, using case studies to illuminate his discussion. Beyond mere description, McCall calls the discipline to a deeper engagement with the traditional resources of the theological task.

Contents

• 1. What Is Analytic Theology?
• 2. Analytic Theology and Christian Scripture
• 3. Analytic Theology and the History of Doctrine
• 4. Analytic Theology for the Church and the World
• 5. Analytic Theology to the Glory of God

Praise for An Invitation to Analytic Christian Theology

Much contemporary theology has turned to cultural studies as the partner of choice in its search for apt resources, drifting away from its unavoidable relationship with philosophy. In these circumstances it is a great pleasure to welcome a volume that charts a whole new phase in the mining of philosophy for the articulation and enrichment of robust forms of Christian theology. McCall has exactly the right kind of skills to execute this assignment: sure-footed theological grounding in the Christian tradition, well-honed appropriation of the philosophical sources, wonderful economy and clarity in exposition and a discriminating voice of his own. This is a splendid introduction to an exciting new phase of Christian theology.

—William J. Abraham, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University

Analytic theology has quickly established itself as an important, dynamic research program in contemporary theology. But until now it has had no introductory text. Not only has Thomas McCall provided a stellar volume for just this purpose, he also makes a contribution to the theological literature by showing that analytic theology is not merely philosophical theology masquerading as systematic theology—it is a truly theological theology. This is a clear, well-written and compelling work that is sure to be of great interest to a wide readership.

—Oliver Crisp, professor of systematic theology, Fuller Theological Seminary

At the outset of this extraordinary and much-needed book, Tom McCall promises to introduce nonspecialists to analytic theology. He superbly accomplishes this task, but so much more. No mere introduction, this book engages constructively with a wide variety of theologians and philosophers on central theological topics. McCall’s balance and lucidity make this a breakthrough book, not only for the project of analytic theology, but also for the full arrival of McCall’s charitable and wise theological voice.

—Matthew Levering, Perry Family Foundation Professor of Theology, Mundelein Seminary

Product Details

• Title: An Invitation to Analytic Christian Theology
• Author: Thomas H. McCall
• Publisher: IVP Academic
• Print Publication Date: 2015
• Logos Release Date: 2018
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Reader Edition
• Subjects: Analysis (Philosophy); Philosophical theology; Theology › Methodology
• ISBNs: 9780830899302, 0830899308
• Resource ID: LLS:9780830899302
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2024-09-17T19:23:39Z

About Thomas H. McCall

Thomas H. McCall (PhD, Calvin Theological Seminary) is professor of biblical and systematic theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and the director of the Carl F. H. Henry Center for Theological Understanding. He is also professorial fellow in analytic and exegetical theology at the University of St. Andrews. He is the author or coauthor of several books, including many on the Trinity.