Kelly M. Kapic, a professor of theological studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia, has authored a helpful little book for beginning students of theology. At his school, every incoming student, no matter what major they are studying, has to take his course on theology. And like Christians everywhere, many of the students are skeptical about the practical value of such a course. Kapic’s solution was to pen a little guide called A Little Book for New Theologians: Why and How to Study Theology (IVP, 2012).
Kapic tells the story behind his book and answers some questions related to Christians and theology in general in this interview about his book on ReformedCast. This looks like it will be a helpful resource for students everywhere and the themes covered in the book are important for all churchgoers.
Here is the list of Contents and some endorsements:
Contents:
Part I: Why Study Theology?
1. Entering the Conversation
2. To Know and Enjoy God: Becoming Wise
3. Theology as Pilgrimage
Part II: Characteristics of Faithful Theologians and Theology
4. The Inseparability of Life and Theology
5. Faithful Reason
6. Prayer and Study
7. Humility and Repentance
8. Suffering, Justice, and Knowing God
9. Tradition and Community
10. Love of ScriptureEndorsements:
“To study with Kelly Kapic must be serious fun. His joy in teaching theology is infectious; at the same time he is in blood earnest in believing how essential good theology is to shape minds and transform lives for the glory of God. With delightful signposts from the great theologians of the past, A Little Book for New Theologians guides us to a mountain of unending discovery. Here is an ideal starter kit for the beginning theology student and an affection-refresher for those who have been longer on the way.” ~ Sinclair B. Ferguson (professor of systematic theology, Westminster Seminary, Dallas)
“For many Christians the word theology is synonymous with abstruse, irrelevant and boring. In this jewel of a book, Kelly Kapic shows that theology is really, as the Puritan William Ames said, ‘the science of living in the presence of God.’ This is a great primer both for new students of theology and for those well practiced in the discipline.” ~ Timothy George (founding dean of Beeson Divinity School of Samford University and general editor of the Reformation Commentary on Scripture)
You can purchase this book at the following online retailers: Westminster Bookstore, Christianbook.com, Amazon, Barnes&Noble or direct from IVP.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by InterVarsity Press. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.