Baker Academic Theological Studies Upgrade (4 vols.)

Practicing Christian Doctrine is a timely and important reminder that doctrines are not merely ideas to be debated but truths to be done. Jones’ evangelical and ecumenical approach to each doctrine is also most welcome: she does a good job balancing the centripetal force of evangelicals’ focus on the gospel with the centrifugal force of the gospel’s historical reception in many places and times. Practicing Christian Doctrine joins the short list of one-volume introductions to Christian theology that I am happy to recommend.

—Kevin J. Vanhoozer, professor of systematic theology, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

I can’t think of a better text for introducing Christians to the riches of our theological heritage and to the call to live out that legacy well in the world today.

—Christopher A. Hall, professor of Christian studies, Eastern University

A good theology text will outline the contours of doctrine with clarity and verve. Jones does an admirable job of this, introducing the rich tradition of Christian thought across the ages and around the globe. However, she goes beyond the ‘what’ of theology to draw the reader into the ‘So what?’ with lively reminders of the joy and gratitude that should permeate theological exploration.

—Steven Wilkens, professor of philosophy and ethics, Azusa Pacific University

In Practicing Christian Doctrine, Beth Felker Jones presents a rich and engaging survey of Christian doctrine, showing how good theology is not merely to be believed but also lived.

—James S. Spiegel, professor of philosophy and religion, Taylor University

Rightly understood, mystery is a powerful and liberating theological reality. Boyer and Hall skillfully explore the wonderful truth of mystery, employing such topics as the incarnation, salvation, and prayer as examples of how it works in the church’s confession and practice.

—Kelly M. Kapic, professor of theological studies, Covenant College

This book is both an invitation to contemplation and an exercise in humility. Boyer and Hall bring together theology and spirituality in a way that will help both seasoned travelers and new pilgrims on the road of faith.

—Timothy George, founding dean, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University

A fine Protestant theological treatment of mystery in theology is long overdue, and Boyer and Hall have provided it.

—Roger E. Olson, professor of theology, George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University

The Mystery of God is a refreshing challenge to evangelicals to reject rationalistic approaches to faith while at the same time learning humbly from the Great Tradition. Boyer and Hall mine riches from the fathers that will help their readers appreciate the beauty of the Triune God and the orthodox tradition in which he is found.

—Gerald R. McDermott, professor of theology, Roanoke College

This is a valuable book not just for students or those new to theology but also for those already engaged in the task, including pastors, who are looking for theological reorientation in our postmodern context.

—James K.A. Smith, associate professor of philosophy, Calvin College

Franke has produced a clearly articulated approach to theology that is self-consciously and broadly Calvinist in orientation and seeks to bring that tradition into conversation with postmodern evangelical theological trajectories. Franke works toward an understanding of the theological task as a second-order, contextual discipline while also addressing the need for any theology to speak to universal concerns.

—Peter Enns, Abram S. Clemens Professor of Biblical Studies, Eastern University

In The Character of Theology, Franke draws from theologians of every historical period to make a compelling case for theological reflection that arises from particular cultural situations. In this way, Franke opens the door for a fruitful postconservative, liberal dialogue to construct a theology for our postmodern world that is faithful to the classical tradition.

—Robert Webber, Myers Professor of Ministry, Northern Seminary

Franke demonstrates what postconservative evangelical theology is all about and clearly demonstrates its positive side. This is an introduction to theology not to be missed by anyone interested in leading-edge evangelical thought.

—Roger E. Olson, professor of theology, George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University

A solid presentation of major trends in modern theology.

—Christianity Today