I am reposting this 2011 review because Life’s Biggest Questions is part of the July $3.99 or Less Kindle sale. It is $1.99 through the end of July 2014
Takeaway: Basic Introduction to Systematic Theology does not need to be hard to read.
This book has been sitting on my self waiting for me to read and review it for several months. I have almost stopped reading paperback books except for plane rides. This was almost exactly the length of the flight from Atlanta to Cleveland to read. It is a quick read for someone that has a theology background. Essentially Thoennes is writing a basic guide to systematic theology. He works through all of the major topics, Revelation, the Trinity, Scripture, Atonement/Salvation, the Church, etc.
There are several things I appreciate about the book. 1) I like that he uses the theological terms. I know that many people will not like his use of theological language, but the right words are important to use, especially if well defined. 2) Thoennes has good questions at the end of each section as well as very good suggested readings.
This will make a very good book for an adult introduction to theology or Sunday School class. This is a book that would be best discussed. There are several places where there are lots of theological differences of opinion and they are just glossed over or not mentioned. In general Thoennes is taking a conservative, traditional position. That is fine, but any good introduction should introduce some of the options that are also within the traditional orthodox position.
I am not really a fan of the title. It does not really accurately describe what the book is about, but the book as a whole isn’t bad.
Purchase Links: Paperback, Kindle Edition
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This book was provided by the Amazon Vine Program for purposes of review. If anyone would like the paperback review copy leave a comment below. First request will get it.
Looks like a good book. Dr. Thoeness’ is a great professor and preacher. My husband had a least one class with him in college at Biola.