Barr, William R., ed. Constructive Christian Theology in the Worldwide Church. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1997.

While not a distinctively evangelical volume, this collection includes essays by some prominent evangelicals.  Its value lies in the wide range of theological viewpoints from around the world.

A very helpful introduction by a professor of biblical studies at Wheaton College and leader in Willow Creek Community Church.

Written in an informal, dialogue style, Bethel College professor Greg Boyd responds to his father's questions concerning faith, heaven, hell, personal salvation, and the Bible.

A thorough examination of the divisions within Protestantism between evangelicals and liberals, with a special focus on issues of biblical authority and contemporary cultural influences.

This book is one of the few comprehensive examinations of the key differences in liberal and evangelical theology today. An excellent resource!

A very handy collection of articles on topics of most importance to evangelicals and to Christians in general. Includes such articles as the "Cross [and] Crucifixion" (286-288), "Evil, Problem of" (385-388), the "Image of God" (545-548), and "Myth" (747-749).

According to evangelical Robert Webber, "The Christian Story should be a welcome relief to people who are weary of rationalistic theology. This is a serious book describing Christian history in story form. The people who will welcome it are intuitive thinkers who up to now have not had a theology written for them." The first edition appeared in 1978.

An "evangelical ecumenical" within the United Church of Christ helps those in both camps to understand some of the key definitions and distinctions that sometimes separate the "evangelicals" from the "ecumenicals." Includes his own narrative theology of revelation.

This and Elwell (see above) are the best one-volume dictionaries of evangelical theological thinking. Topics include "Evangelical Theology" (239-240), "Contemporary Theological Trends" (162-164), and "Scripture" 627-631.

Valuable articles, such as "Miracles and Miracle Stories" (549-560), "Women" (880-886), and "Gospels (Historical Reliability)" (291-297).

A younger evangelical lays out a new approach to Christian theology.

Useful articles including, "Ethics" (269-275), "Hermeneutics/Interpreting Paul" (388-396), "Man And Woman" (583-592), and "Church" (123-131).

American Catholic women, writing from a position that is moderately liberal while trying to respect church tradition, use a feminist theological approach to reformulate traditional categories and themes.

Pinnock, the evangelical, and Brown, the liberal, interact with each other on the major themes of Christian theology.

Theology and Scripture from a Feminist Perspective

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Includes essays on: the "traditional view" by Robert D. Culver, the "male leadership view" by Susan T. Foh, the "plural ministry view" by Walter L. Liefeld, and the "egalitarian view" by Alvera Michelsen. A good overview of the varying evangelical positions on the roles of women.

A careful exegetical study of Old and New Testament passages on women's roles. Evans argues for a reexamination of the current attitudes and practices of the Church concerning women in ministry in light of the biblical evidence. An egalitarian perspective.

Examines the biblical, historical and practical concerns surrounding women and the ordained ministry. Grenz concludes that women are called to serve as "full partners" with men in the work of the Church.

Malcolm examines women's contributions to the church from the time of Christ and the first Christian churches to the present. Written from a more personal, rather than a scholarly perspective, but a good resource regarding the contributions women have made to the Church.

Representing the traditional perspective, Piper, Grudem, and twenty others provide a systematic response to contemporary, "evangelical feminism."

Spencer's research acknowledges women as equal partners in ministry and marriage. Includes a supportive afterword by William David Spencer, the author's husband.

The Nature and Method of Theology

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  Alston, William P. A Realist Conception of Truth. Ithaca/London: Cornell University Press, 1996.

Yale philosopher Nicholas Wolterstoff says this is "easily the most penetrating and comprehensive analysis and critique of anti-realist theories of truth available, along with a vigorous defense of the realist account." Heavy philosophical reading, but a valuable piece of the argument for the truth value of propositional statements.

 The author examines ways to connect theology and faith with the experiences of daily life.

The first of a proposed seven volume series in systematic theology, Bloesch deals with several key issues regarding the nature of theology and its methods, including the relationship of faith and philosophy to theology, theological terminology, and the authority of theological doctrines.

Emphasizes the importance of personal faith and participation in a community of belief as an integral part of theological methodology.

Valuable reprints of tracts, pamphlets, and magazine articles by highly influential champions of either the fundamentalist or modernist camp. The selections deal with the debates over the return of Christ and the Interchurch World Movement. Includes Harry Emerson Fosdick’s sermon, "The Peril of Worshiping Jesus," and the reply to this by James M. Gray. First of six volumes documenting the fundamentalist-modernist controversy.

An excellent resource on apologetic methodology by a Bethel Seminary professor of theology.

Gives a broad overview of the theologies of Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

An useful tool in understanding the definition of theology as a discipline, its role in Christianity, and its intended objectives. Includes sections on the nature of religion versus theology, the need for theology, and its biblical basis.

Examines the contemporary theological scene and the processes of doing theology as well as discussing the degree of authority of theological statements.

A detailed discussion on the influence of popular culture and current trends in philosophy, the sciences, and other disciplines on contemporary approaches to theology. Includes specific chapters on the doctrines of Scripture, God, humanity, sin, Christ, and salvation.

A solid introductory text in systematic theology, distinctive from others in its thematic emphasis on the Church community.

A short, well-written examination of the scientific method of inductive reasoning as it applies to theological study. Hodge argues that the inductive method is the "true" theological method.

Includes sections on defining theology, methodological issues, and theological language. Concludes with Shuster's sermon, "Veiling."

Explores various approaches in defining Christian doctrine with an emphasis on the relation of doctrine to the practices of the Church.

Studies and critiques postmodernism, postliberalism and religious pluralism from the perspective of a robust evangelicalism.

An essay, outlining the mainstays of evangelical theology. The book in its entirety deals with the historical development of the evangelical movement. Includes surveys and tables of evangelical scholars and seminaries.

Packer responds to the claim of many liberal/modernist theologians that theology cannot relay absolute, revealed, knowledge of God.

Pinnock proposes a "middle ground" between liberalism and fundamentalism, and examines the strengths and weaknesses of three major approaches: progressives, conservatives, and moderates.

A study of John Wesley's theology, focusing on Wesley's assertion of the primacy of Scripture as the basis for theological method. Situates Wesley within the evangelical tradition.

A helpful overview of the various contemporary forms of theology. Includes analyses of modern forms of doctrine and theological approaches--both Protestant and Roman Catholic.

Revelation and Authority

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  Blomberg, Craig. Historical Reliability of the Gospels. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1987.

A well-written, thorough examination of the varying critical approaches to the Gospels accounts.

Easy to read, includes discussions on the Bible as the Word of God, hermeneutics, inerrancy, and principles behind the interpretation of Scripture. Written from a Reformed perspective.

Addresses questions of revelation, biblical authority and hermeneutics. While holding to an orthodox, evangelical position, Bloesch engages contemporary philosophical and theological trends with honesty and clarity.

Outlines the mainstream liberal and evangelical positions on divine revelation, highlighting the key differences between the two.

Examines the impact of historical criticism in Scripture, the nature and origins of the Bible, the relationship between miracles and mythology, and the teachings surrounding divine inspiration and authority of biblical texts.

Stott responds to Edwards' critique of the evangelical position regarding the divine authority and inerrancy of Scripture. Written in a relaxed, dialogue format.

A sound exploration of the topic of God's purposes in history--specifically the relationship of predestination and human freedom. With a foreword by F.F. Bruce.

A helpful study of the role of the Spirit in the revelation of Scripture.

Jewett discusses modes of God's self-revelation, canonization, and the unity and authority of Scripture as well as examining key questions in hermeneutics. Again, concludes with a sermon by Shuster, "A Book With A Difference."

Examines the subjects of revelation and inspiration while holding to the belief that the Bible is the "written Word of God." Holds that the word "inerrancy," while problematic, ought to be retained by evangelicals, if not applied rigidly.

An extremely useful, easy-to-read introduction to the field of hermeneutics by a Bethel Seminary New Testament Professor.

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    Barclay, Oliver R. and Derek Burke, eds. Creation & Evolution: 7 Prominent Christians Debate Today's Issues. Leicester: InterVarsity Press, 1985.

Christian scientists debate such issues as the age of the earth and the origins of humanity.

Holds to a strong affirmation of God's "holiness and almightiness" while discussing such characteristics as transcendence and immanence, power, wisdom, holiness, and love.

Discusses the identities and relationships of the persons of the Trinity in light of the author's experiences with Oneness Pentecostals' anti-Trinitarian ideals. A strong refutation of modalism.

A compelling introduction to the nature and subject of God. Written from a Reformed perspective.

A general, systematic introduction to Scripture, the divine nature and attributes of God, and creation. From a Reformed viewpoint.

Several evangelical scholars including  J.P. Moreland, Willian Lane Craig, and David Clark respond to the objections against miracles made by David Hume in his 1748 essay, "Of Miracles," and in a contemporary statement written by Antony Flew.

An account of sixteen visions received in the 14th century by the most popular of English mystics. Refers to God and Christ in strongly maternal terms.

Discusses issues of apologetics, models for understanding God, and the Incarnation. Concludes with an extensive study of the Trinity proper.

A study of the Shaker doctrine of a dual, male-female God, by an evangelical theologian teaching at The Methodist Theological School in Ohio.

A detailed introduction to the field of philosophical theology. Morris addresses such topics as God's goodness and power as well as His relation to time, eternity, and creation.

Moreland (theist) and Nielsen (atheist) debate the question of the existence of God. Includes contributions from William Lane Craig, Antony Flew, Dallas Willard, Keith Parsons, with an introduction by "evangelical Catholic" Peter Kreeft.

Urges for a reconsideration of classical doctrines, arguing that God, known through Christ, desires a "responsive relationship with humanity." A hotly debated, highly controversial book within evangelicalism.

Identifies eleven issues from Genesis 1-9 such as chronology, evolution, and capital punishment. Includes contributions by twenty-two scholars, with opposing views on each question.

Human Nature and Sin

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   Cooper, John W. Body, Soul, & Life Everlasting: Biblical Anthropology And The Monism-Dualism Debate. Grand Rapids: Wm.B. Eerdmans, 1989.

A careful, thorough argument for a "functionally holistic dualism" by associate professor of philosophical theology at Calvin Theological Seminary.

Explores the meaning of our creation in "the image of God," the origin, spread, and nature of sin, as well as the historicity of the fall and its effect on humanity.

Hughes discusses the meaning of humanity's being created in God's image, the origin of evil and its consequences for humanity, and the restoration of the divine image through Christ's work on the cross.

Contrasts the concepts of sin and addiction in light of the emphasis on human freedom in Christian theology.

A broad, comprehensive study on the nature of sin, Old and New Testament texts that speak of sin, and Christian theology's explanation of this "universal problem."

Traces the history of the idea of sin from the early Church fathers to contemporary theologians. A helpful introduction.

The Person and Mission of Christ

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    Borg, Marcus J. Jesus A New Vision; Spirit, Culture, And the Life of Discipleship.  San Francisco: Harper and Row, 1987.

A well-organized, scholarly exposition of Borg's understanding of the historical Jesus and his role in first century Jewish culture.  An excellent introduction to the essential tenets of the author's reconstruction of the historical Jesus.  From a liberal perspective.

An overview of recent reconstructions of the historical Jesus.

Though many of the positions in the book simply restate previously published conclusions (see especially, Jesus: A New Vision), the author includes useful insights on the influence of his depiction of the historical Jesus on the Christian faith.

A dialogue on the essential issues in the historical Jesus controversy between two of the leading liberal (Borg) and evangelical (Wright) scholars in historical Jesus research.  An excellent resource on alternate views of Jesus' divinity, the virgin birth, the crucifixion and resurrection, and the second coming.

Provides a detailed response to the arguments proposed by the "Jesus Seminar," namely, that the historical Jesus was only a "wandering, Cynic sage."

A concise discussion on the various theories surrounding the true identity of Jesus of Nazareth.

By the evangelical Archbishop of Canterbury, the book emphasizes the centrality of the Cross both in relation to the Old and New Testaments and in its importance in our lives.

Interprets the identity of the historical Jesus in light of first-century Jewish culture which Crossan describes as heavily influenced by Hellenistic social and practical thought and practice.  Much of this extensive work outlines the methods used by the author in reaching his conclusions. A liberal perspective.

A more popular, concise presentation of the views expressed in The Historical Jesus.

John Stott responds to Edwards' critique of the evangelical emphasis on the centrality of Christ's death on the cross in relation to our understanding of the Christian faith today.

Stott clarifies the traditional evangelical stance on miracles, namely that "signs and wonders" were an accepted and expected mode of divine revelation in Biblical times and should still be seen as legitimate examples of God's presence and power today.

Bethel College professor Gregory Boyd states that this is "one of the best comprehensive refutations of the new revisionist views of Jesus to date as well as one of the best historical defenses of the evangelical view that Jesus was, and is, the Son of God."

Refutes the traditional understanding of Jesus of Nazareth as God incarnate.  A liberal, theological perspective.

A useful critique of the findings of the Jesus Seminary and contemporary reconstructions of the historical Jesus.  Emphasizes the need to focus on the "real" Jesus, the resurrected Lord whose Spirit is present today.

Includes sections on the identity of the resurrected Christ, christological methods, and narrative Christology.

A formal debate between Gary R. Habermas and Antony G.W.Flew on the historical reliability of the Resurrection event.

A systematic theology emphasizing the centrality of the teachings of Jesus Christ.

A defense of Christian doctrine. Includes excerpts from a variety of articles and speeches written by the author.

Expanding on his personal spiritual journey, Stroebel interviews a dozen scholars asking such questions as, "Is the Jesus of History the Same as the Christ of Faith?" and "Are There Any Supporting Facts that Point to the Resurrection?"    Contributors include Gregory Boyd, J. P. Moreland, Craig Blomberg, and Ben Witherington III.

Described by the author as "a methodological and historical groundwork for understanding the NT, expecially the Gospels and Jesus" (see Wright, The Original Jesus, "Further Reading.") A valuable resource by one of the leading scholars in the field of historical Jesus research.

Again described by the author as a "full-scale historical portrait of Jesus within his historical context, interacting in detail with contemporary scholarship." Also an excellent resource in historical Jesus research.

Examines the study of the historical Jesus in relation to postmodernity.

The Spirit of God

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    Green, Michael. I Believe in the Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Wm.B. Eerdmans, 1975.

Traces the doctrine of the Holy Spirit through the Old and New Testaments as well as examining issues such as spiritual gifts, the work of the Spirit, and the Charismatic movement.

Includes sections on the identity of the Spirit, the role of the Spirit in Scripture, conversion, and salvation.

Argues that Jesus depended completely on the power and authority of the Holy Spirit in his teaching, healing, and other miraculous acts--affirms the full humanity of Jesus.

A commentary on the major texts regarding the Holy Spirit in both the Old and New Testaments by a Catholic rector and professor of Scripture.

A biblically grounded systematic theology from the perspective of the Holy Spirit's person and ministries.

Salvation

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    Basinger, David & Randall Basinger, eds. Predestination & Free Will: Four Views of Divine Sovereignty & Human Freedom. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1986.

Contributors John Feinberg, Norman Geisler, Bruce Reichenbach, and Clark Pinnock offer their individual perspectives while critiquing the other views presented.

An examination of the biblical teaching of grace in relation to God, humanity, and salvation--includes excerpts from the personal experiences of the author, a Presbyterian minister, and others.

Stott responds to David Edward's questions concerning individual salvation, the reality of hell, and the coming of the Kingdom. Stott leans toward annihilation of the wicked rather than the traditional doctrine of hell.

Offers a solid explication of the key questions surrounding humanity's eternal destiny.

Explores God's purpose in relation to Israel and the Church today. Written from an Arminian perspective with a foreword by F.F. Bruce.

Calls for a return to the traditional teachings of the church regarding the centrality of the doctrine of grace in the Gospel message.

Essays by John Hick, Clark Pinnock, Alister McGrath, Douglas Gievett, and Gary Phillips presenting various pluralist, inclusivist, and particularist views on the question of who will be saved. Each contributor critiques the others, and each responds to the critiques.

A thorough examination of election, faith, and predestination, focusing on the universality of grace from an Arminian perspective.

Written by a team of evangelical scholars from a variety of traditions.

Presents a reaffirmation of the Calvinist position from biblical and practical perspectives.

Focuses on the historical and theological evidence for the Calvinist view of God and His work.

The Church

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     Bridge, Donald & David Phypers. The Water That Divides: The Baptism Debate. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1977.

A Baptist and an Anglican discuss the arguments surrounding both infant baptism and the baptism of adult converts only.

A reflection on the life, order, and purpose of the Chuch. Emphasizes the work of theology as the means for renewal.

A general introduction to the doctrine of the Church from historical, biblical, theological, and practical perspectives.

Spirituality and Christian Ethics

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    Alexander, Donald L., ed. Christian Spirituality: Five Views on Sanctification. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1988.

Brings together five scholars representing five main Protestant views: Lutheran, Reformed, Wesleyan, Pentecostal, and Contemplative. With an introduction by Alexander and responses to each essay by the other contributors.

Includes eighteen major articles in Part One such as "Justice and Peace" (15-21) and "Global Ethics" (100-108). Part Two provides hundreds of shorter articles examining specific questions related to each topic.

A helpful overview of the way moral theories and norms are formed by professors of theology at Bethel Theological Seminary.

Stott responds to Edwards' criticisms concerning the applicability of biblical directives on morality to contemporary society, as well as Jesus' role in mandating religious "laws" and the question of a "culture-bound" Bible.

A compelling study of prayer as seeking personal transformation, intimacy with God, and ministry with others.

Christian Hope

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    Crockett, William V., ed. Four Views On Hell. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1992.

Includes sections on "The Literal View" of hell by John Walvoord, "The Metaphorical View" by William Crockett, "The Purgatorial View" by Zachary J. Hayes, and "The Conditional View" by Clark H. Pinnock. With responses by each author.

The author examines a variety of views including amillennialism, postmillennialism, and premillennialism as well as the differing strands of tribulational thought. Each chapter begins with a brief overview, followed by a history of the position, and evaluation of its major concepts and arguments.

Grenz provides an insightful analysis of the four major positions held by evangelicals: postmillennialism, dispensational premillennialism, historic premillennialism, and amillennialism.

Discusses the significance of eschatology for Christians today as well as the consummation of personal existence, of history, and of God's cosmic program. This volume as a whole provides the detailed analysis of evangelical doctrine Grenz points to in Reenvisioning Evangelical Theology.

Explores the psychological, philosophical, and theological dimensions of death and the afterlife.

An extremely helpful, readable examination of heaven and its relation to space, time, earth, hell, and humanity.

 

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