Review: A Little Book for New Theologians

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What benefit could a little book on theology offer the average person?

From the opening pages, Kapic attempts to address this very question, contending that the relevance of theology is established in the common questions of humanity. The questions concerning "identity, culture, politics, and ethics" (16), are informed by our concept of the person and character of God. In short, theology is important because we are all theologians.

This theme is developed by examining the relationship between the knowledge of God, and the worship of God. As we read Scripture, God's revelation of himself to man, we are exposed to true knowledge; and "when one begins to know God in his beauty and truth, worship springs into being" (24). With this in mind, it becomes crucial that Christians continually pursue a more profound knowledge of God rather than developing individualistic opinions that leave one wanting. This pursuit is a gradual understanding of God, which is compared to a pilgrimage guided by the Spirit, one that should be grounded in humility, repentance, and prayer.

As Kapic transitions from pursuit to practice, he reminds the reader that faithful worship is a response to all the aspects of God's revealed character. The recognition of God's undeserved mercy motivates believers to have concern for others because "God's glory is gracious and his grace is glorious" (80).

In considering how we respond to God, Kapic gives attention to the importance of community counsel by "saints from both past and present" (93), as a means of growth and spiritual maturity. By consulting the reflections of others, a baseline of essential truth is established for both orthodoxy and traditions that aids in the removal of present-day "cultural baggage." These secondary sources of "tradition, experience, and reason" (112) should always be examined in light of Scripture and a reliance on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

A Little Book for New Theologians doesn't claim to state anything new, but rather highlights the necessity for serious study by modern Christians, offering insight from both the past and present in how to approach this task. Kapic delivers his message in an approachable way, one that is easily understood and beneficial to anyone who would like to know God better or begin to find answers address the questions of their current culture.

A Little Book for New Theologians was written by Kelly M. Kapic, professor of theological studies at Covenant College, author of numerous books on theological study. (Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2010) 126pp.

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