Written by a skilled theologian with over two decades of classroom experience, this introduction to evangelical theology explains how connecting to five sources of Christian theology--Scripture, tradition, reason, experience, and community--leads to a richer and deeper understanding of the faith. Graham McFarlane calls this the "evangelical quintilateral," which he recommends as a helpful rubric for teaching theology. This integrative model introduces students to the sources, themes, tasks, and goals of evangelical theology, making the book ideal for introductory theology courses.

Description: Klaus Bockmuehl (1931-1989), former Professor for Systematic Theology at Regent College, Vancouver, published outstanding theological ethical works. The questions that Bockmuehl explored have not lost any relevance: How do we know what God's will is in a particular situation? Is Scripture sufficient for ethical decisions or should we listen to God? Does God even speak today? Is there a distinctive Christian ethic? Bockmuehl's central contribution can be found in his emphasis on the seminal role the Holy Spirit plays within Christian ethics, not only as the one who realizes the reign of God in the life of the individual but also as the one guiding the individual in a particular situation. This book is the first in-depth study of Bockmuehl, introducing readers to his theology and ethics, including a short biographical overview, delineating and appraising how he understands the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian ethics. It is not a book without criticism and its own creative contribution. Annette Glaw concludes her fascinating study with a proposal for a relational concept of the Holy Spirit as the loving presence of God in Christian ethics.

Synopsis: Almost everyone has an opinion about Jesus, be it conscious or unconscious, rational or irrational. But what do you make of him? And why do you believe what you believe about Jesus? Graham McFarlane characteristically comes from an original angle in this stimulating book. He encourages you not only to acknowledge what you believe about Jesus, but to ask yourself why you believe it. This highly accessible and thought-provoking book is part of the Theological Foundations series, which explores the main tenets of Christianity at a popular level. It is humorously illustrated, anecdotal, clear, and concise, whilst allowing you to contemplate your faith and arrive at an informed and objective opinion. Author Biography: Graham McFarlane is Lecturer in Systematic Theology at London Bible College. He is the author of Christ and the Spirit: The Doctrine of Incarnation according to Edward Irving, and in the same series as this title, Why Do You Believe What You Believe About the Holy Spirit?

Synopsis: Why do you believe what you believe about the Holy Sprit? Are your beliefs based on current trends of thought in the church or the world around you, or do they fit in with what the Bible and Christian tradition teaches? Does it matter? What are the consequences of your beliefs? In this thought-provoking survey, Graham McFarlane draws on the insight of ancient and modern thinkers to work out the implications of the biblical witness to the Spirit for the individual believer, and for the church as a reconciling community. Combining clear teaching with practical applications, this book encourages readers to think through their faith. Endorsements: "Most of us know what we believe, But few take the (theo)logical step back to ask why. McFarlane has an uncanny knack-I would say a rare gift-of taking the complexities of a contentious subject and making them available to 'lay' readers as well as students of theology." -Brian Draper, Managing Editor of Third Way "McFarlane invites us to discover what we believe about the Holy Spirit by reconnecting us to the historical traditions of trinitarian theology. Yet what emerges from this book is neither antiquarian nor safe, but altogether contemporary and shocking." -Andrew Walker, King's College "This excellent and beautifully written book . . . is an essential read for all those concerned to understand the Spirit of god and discern his presence and activity." -Graham Cray, Principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge Author Biography: Graham McFarlane is Lecturer in Systematic Theology at London Bible College. He is the author of Christ and the Spirit: The Doctrine of the Incarnation According to Edward Irving (Paternoster Press).