Introduction to Theology: Declaring the Wonders of God - Paperback

by Frank D. Macchia (Author), Jerry Ireland (Editor), Paul Lewis (Editor)

This systematic theology textbook introduces students to the complexity and beauty of theology as a pursuit of the global church today. It views theology as an ongoing conversation with many voices about the wonders of God that is faithful to Scripture but is also attentive to the wisdom of tradition and the relevance of context.

The book first summarizes the nature and necessity of theological thinking and discusses theological method. Chapters then unfold in creedal order through the various regions of Christian teaching, with units on revelation, God, creation and providence, Christology, pneumatology, ecclesiology, anthropology, soteriology, and eschatology.

This book is part of a new series that reflects the changing face of global Christianity. Series volumes are written by leading Pentecostal/Charismatic scholars who highlight themes of interest to Pentecostal/Charismatic students; however, the books are respectful, appreciative, and inclusive of a variety of church families and traditions. Series editors are Jerry Ireland, Paul W. Lewis, and Frank D. Macchia.

Back Jacket

Foundations for Spirit-Filled Christianity
Jerry Ireland, Paul W. Lewis, and Frank D. Macchia, series editors

This systematic theology textbook introduces students to an ongoing conversation with many voices about the wonders of God that is faithful to Scripture but also attentive to the wisdom of tradition and the relevance of context.

"Macchia's scholarship is unique among systematic theologians as it straddles the best of Pentecostal theology and bears the imprimatur of the finest evangelical thought. This book is a demonstration of the sterling qualities of his scholarship suitably rendered as an introduction to theology and as an invitation to mature theologians to rethink and renew their theologies."
--Nimi Wariboko, Boston University

"Finally, an introduction to theology that establishes a clear vision that declaring the wonders of God in the wider praise and witness of the church can successfully combine global resources, attentiveness to Scripture and the history of Christianity, and the norms that inform and govern the theological tradition with the language of Pentecostal and Charismatic spirituality and thought!"
--Wolfgang Vondey, University of Birmingham

"In his Introduction to Theology, leading Pentecostal theologian Frank Macchia follows the trinitarian order of the Apostolic Creed. He pays particular attention to the third article of the confession--highlighting the Holy Spirit, ecclesiology, and eschatology. The systematic focus of the book is on the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the crown jewel of Pentecostal theology. The entire text is characterized by a strong biblical foundation and a passion for accessibility to a broad range of readers. Indeed, the book promotes theology as 'the wisdom that is gained in declaring the wonders of God.'"
--Michael Welker, University of Heidelberg

Praise for the Foundations for Spirit-Filled Christianity Series

"The church and academy are finally ready for Foundations for Spirit-Filled Christianity, which relays the insights and perspectives of mature Pentecostal and Charismatic theologians and biblical scholars on a broad array of important theological topics, doctrinal loci, and practical realities."
--Amos Yong, Fuller Theological Seminary

Author Biography

Frank D. Macchia (DTheol, University of Basel; DD Honorary, Pentecostal Theological Seminary) is professor of systematic theology at Vanguard University of Southern California and associate director of the Centre for Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies at Bangor University, Wales. His recent books include Jesus the Spirit Baptizer: Christology in Light of Pentecost and The Spirit-Baptized Church: A Dogmatic Inquiry. He lives in Aliso Viejo, California.