The most widely-used text of the last 25 years in its discipline, Systematic Theology by Wayne Grudem has been thoroughly revised and expanded (all 57 chapters) for the first time while retaining the features that have made it the standard in its field: clear explanations, an emphasis on each doctrine's scriptural basis, and practical applications to daily life.
With several hundred pages of new content, this new edition now includes the following distinctive features.
• Updated, fuller analysis of several recent controversies within evangelicalism, including the eternal relationship between the Father and the Son in the Trinity, the question of God's atemporal eternity, the role of women in the church, "seeker-sensitive" churches, miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit, and contemporary worship music.
• New, thoughtful critiques of open theism, the "new perspective on Paul," Molinism (or "middle knowledge"), "Free Grace" theology, and the preterist view of Christ's second coming
• Completely revised, stronger chapter on the clarity of Scripture
• Completely revised, stronger chapter on creation and evolution (including a longer critique of theistic evolution)
• New discussion of how biblical inerrancy applies to some specific "problem verses" in the Gospels
• Additional material respectfully explaining evangelical Protestant differences with Roman Catholicism, Protestant liberalism, and Mormonism.
• Completely updated bibliographies
• All Scripture quotations updated from RSV to ESV
• An explanation of why monogenes in John 3:16 and elsewhere should be translated as "only begotten" rather than merely "only" (this is a change from the first edition)
• A contemporary worship song added at the end of each chapter (while retaining the traditional hymns as well)
• Numerous other updates and corrections
Part of the brilliance of Systematic Theology over the years has been its simplicity and ease of use. Each chapter follows the same structure. First, there is discussion of the doctrine being considered, such as justification or the Trinity or the deity of Christ. An explanation of where that doctrine is supported in the Bible and possible objections follow. Personal application and key terms to know for personal growth are then provided. Chapters also include a scripture memory passage, references to other literature on the topic, and suggested hymns and worship songs.
If you are someone who thinks theology is hard to understand or boring, then this new edition of Systematic Theology will likely change your mind.
