Books like The drama of doctrine by Kevin J. Vanhoozer

An introductory guide to theology for new theologians.

Defending the faith can be daunting, and a well-reasoned and biblically grounded apologetic is essential for the challenge. Following in the footsteps of groundbreaking apologist Cornelius Van Til, Scott Oliphint presents us with an introduction to Reformed apologetics as he sets forth the principles behind a distinctly "covenantal" approach. This book clearly explains the theological foundations of covenantal apologetics and illustrates its application in real-world conversations with unbelievers -- helping Christians to boldly, knowledgeably, and winsomely proclaim the gospel. - Publisher.

In this volume, highly esteemed scholar Kevin Vanhoozer introduces readers to a way of thinking about Christian theology that takes the work he began in the groundbreaking 2005 book, The Drama of Doctrine, to its next level. Vanhoozer argues that theology is not merely a set of cognitive beliefs, but is also something we do that involves speech and action alike. He uses a theatrical model to explain the ways in which doctrine shapes Christian understanding and forms disciples. The church, Vanhoozer posits, is the preeminent theater where the gospel is "performed," with doctrine directing this performance. Doctrines are not simply truths to be stored, shelved, and stacked, but indications and directions to be followed, practiced, and enacted. In "performing" doctrine, Christians are shaped into active disciples of Jesus Christ. He goes on to examine the state of the church in today's world and explores how disciples can do or perform doctrine. Written in an accessible and engaging style, Faith Speaking Understanding sets forth a compelling vision of what the church is and what it should be doing, and demonstrates the importance of Christian doctrine for this mission. Disciples who want to follow Christ in all situations need doctrinal direction as they walk onto the social stage in the great theater of the world. The Christian faith is about acknowledging, and participating in, the great thing God is doing in our world: making all things new in Christ through the Holy Spirit. Doctrine ministers understanding: of God, of the drama of redemption, of the church as a company of faithful players, and of individual actors, all of whom have important roles to play. In an age where things fall apart and centers fail to hold, doctrine centers us in Jesus Christ, in whom all things hold together. - Publisher.

A concise tour of Christian doctrine by Michael Scott Horton

A comprehensive guide to theology suitable for laypeople and educators alike.

"Howard Stone and James Duke contend that theology is not an optional, esoteric indulgence but instead a vital, practical skill by which people can make religious sense of concrete life situations and fulfill their intellectual vocations as Christians. So they have composed a successful theological primer for everyone. Again, in this third edition, Stone and Duke's lucid and lively text helps readers to probe their own theological roots and advance to a more deliberative, appreciative, and creative application of their embedded faith convictions. Addressing the how and why of theological sources, moves, and methods, Stone and Duke guide readers into major theological topics--gospel, sin and salvation, vocation, ethical discernment--through real-life case studies. The third edition is fully updated and expanded with a new format focused on study helps and calling out main themes."--Back cover.

"Theological dictionaries are foundational to any theological library. But until now there has been no global dictionary of theology, a theological dictionary that presumes the contribution of the Western tradition but moves beyond it to embrace and explore a full range of global expressions of theology." "The Global Dictionary of Theology is inspired by the shift of the center of Christianity from the West to the global South. But it also reflects the increase in two-way traffic between these two sectors as well as the global awareness that has permeated popular culture to an unprecedented degree." "The editorial perspective of the Global Dictionary of Theology is an ecumenical evangelicalism that is receptive to discovering new facets of truth through listening and conversation on a global scale." "Pastors, theological teachers, theological students and lay Christian leaders will all find the Global Dictionary of Theology to be a resource that unfolds new dimensions and reveals new panoramas of theological perspective and inquiry. Here is a new launching point for doing theology in today's global context."--BOOK JACKET.