Review Summary: Erickson is the best evangelical systematic theology available
Date: 2008-11-18
Details: There are two primary systematic theologies used by conservative Evangelicals today. One is written by Wayne Grudem and the other by Millard Erickson. In my opinion, Erickson is quite superior.
Erickson is much more thorough in his treament of the philosophical landscape, both in presenting crucial background information and in his use of philosophical materials in crafting his theology. Therfore he offers a more subtle and critical evaluation of certain theological problems than Wayne Grudem does. Grudem, on the other hand, many times ignores difficulties and is satisfied simply to quote biblical proof texts to support his positions.
An example of the difference in their approach is their presentation of the doctrine of the inerrancy of scripture. Erickson deals head on with tough examples from critics of inerrancy that might undermine his view of this doctrine. After fully considering opposing arguments, he offers 5 or 6 nuanced versions of inerrancy that could be acceptable to an Evangelical. Grudem, however, flatly denies that he is aware of even one contradiction in scripture. Thus he expends no ink in offering solutions to difficult biblical problems. This is somewhat typical.
If you are interested in a good summary of conservative Christian theology based almost soley on biblical exegesis, then Grudem may be for you. But if you want a systematic theology that truly wrestles with serious objections to Evangelical doctrines by using not only excellent exegesis but also philosophical tools in a highly competent manner, then buy Erickson.
Review Summary: the challenge
Date: 2008-10-24
Details: A pretty good book for someone that has exposure and experience with systematic theology. Erickson does a good job of presenting the antagonist to the biblical viewpoint, but unless you are a student of theology, many of the names and arguments will get you lost . I also found that I needed to keep a dictionary at hand. This man is very educated and the book is not for the faint of heart, but you will learn some good things if you stay with it, speaking as a layman.
Review Summary: Christian Theology
Date: 2008-10-05
Details: My book was received timely in excellent condition. Iam satisfied with it.
I am using it for a class. This book is a little more difficult to read, and I find it's not always distinct on the different views of topics. It does cover the main topics and share more than one view on it.
Details: This is the third systematic theology book that I have learned from in my philosophy of religion and ethics studies at the masters level. Erickson's ideas are fresh and thoughtful, while staying true to divine inspiration and the inerrancy of the Bible. This is simply an outstanding work that deserves to be in any library that has space reserved for deep theological thought provided in a pragmatic, contemporary, and approachable manner.
out of 38 Reviews
