Interesting choice of theologians. Would have liked to see something on Wesley, perhaps, but I won’t hold that against him….

“Sketch” indeed! Only 210 pages! For those of us who love reading theology, this book may serve to remind of us who to re-read on certain topics, but yet…? in 210 pages? I hope the book isn’t used as Cliff Notes!

Thanks.
Added to my wish list.
You’re killing my budget.

you say “reformed” like it’s a bad thing . to those who judge a book by its “shortness”–remember some of us are not seminary grads but we do like to help the people in the pew learn new stuff–this sounds like an accessible book to me–I’m ready to click “buy”

An interesting book I recently read which serves as a popular introduction to many theologians is Roger Olson’s “God In Dispute”. Olson has written imaginary conversations between theologians of varying perspectives, beginning with the early struggles with heresies and continuing on to recent developments in liberation theology and more, coupled with brief introductions and summaries that fill out their various theological positions. He originally used these ‘conversations’ in his theology classes at Truett Seminary.

Scot, Is the book fair to the non-reformed men on the list?

Taylor the book is a model of fairness.

Although the list is interesting, it’s also white, western and male. And one could ask why Edwards when you have Calvin already.
Oh, and where’s Ireneaus, the first person to do theology in any systematic way. Perhaps one might add in here Gustavo Gutierrez or a Georgia Harkness. Just to get the conversation started!

This book is simply an introduction to great theologians, but a very good introduction. Most folks sitting in the pews have never read these theologians and some have never even heard of many of them. The very thought of church history and how we have come to our theologies cross the mind of very few.
Gerry was good enough to teach our adult VBS class on a few of these great thinkers as he was writing this book and had a great turnout. This book will open up church history for the uninitiated and be a good refresher for those who haven’t studied it for a while. The book itself is designed for Sunday school or small group study with questions after each chapter.

Great book. Similar to McDermott’s intro to World Religions, or Mark Noll’s intro to church history titled “Turning Points.” Great for use as a refresher (for pastors or those who have studied the subject deeply in the past but want a quick reminder of some key points) or as an intro/overview for the thoughtful layperson who is interested to know more about the subject but overwhelmed by the daunting question of how/where to start.