Invitation to Theology: A Guide to Study, Conversation Practice

By Michael Jinkins

Book Overview

Are you intimidated by theology? Confused? Bored?Michael Jinkins knows it doesn't have to be that way. "Theology is our critical and prayerful reflection on the totality of life," he writes. "We all do theology on a regular basis, whether or not we are conscious of the fact."In Invitation to Theology Jinkins offers a knowledgeable, helpful and caring guide to walk you through the basics of the Christian faith. Following the pattern of the ancient summary of the Christian faith, the Apostles' Creed, Jinkins highlights the key doctrines of God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, humanity, church, salvation and resurrection. He cuts a clear path through theological terms, traditions and debates. And in the spirit of C. S. Lewis, he invites you to consider some of the most profound reflections--from the distant past to the present day--on Christian belief. Throughout this fascinating journey, the main road is always kept in view: "The meaning and shape of our life together as a community of persons is grounded in the inner life of God, the Trinity, and has been revealed to us in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ."If you are eager to think about your faith, to examine what and why you believe and to reflect on how such faith can be lived out in our world, Invitation to Theology is the book for you.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0830815627
• ISBN13: 9780830815623
• Release Date: January 2001
• Publisher: IVP Academic
• Length: 278 Pages
• Weight: 0.45 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.1" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Excellent introduction

Jinkins does a wondeful job presenting an easy introduction to theology. It is very approachable and usable for almost any crowd. He very roughly follows the Apostles' Creed to create chapters. Jinkins clearly follows in the footsteps of his teachers, the Torrance brothers. Highly recommended.

An Outstanding Introduction for Christians

The classic introductory work for Protestants (Presbyterians in particular) for the last thirty years now has been Shirley Guthrie's "Christian Doctrine." It really stood alone, it was so well done. Now there is a replacement that deserves a serious reading and close study. Michael Jinkins' new book is a worthy successor to that enduring classic. The theology is trinitarian and incarnational--that is, it is in the mainstream of Christianity. It is also easy to read. Jinkins' book builds slowly in introducing information, slowly enough so that novices may learn and understand. This is a worthy book for Sunday School classes or for Wednesday/ Sunday night bible study groups. Jinkins' has produced a new classic here for those of us in the church and we are greatly indebted to him. Read and enjoy!