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From Topic to Thesis: A Guide to Theological Research by Michael Kibbe
While courses in Bible and theology typically require research papers, particularly at the graduate level, very few include training in research. Professors have two use valuable class time to teach students as much as they can, or lower their standards with the understanding that students cannot be expected to complete tasks for which they have never been prepared. From Topic to A Guide to Theological Research offers a third option. This affordable and accessible tool walks students through the process, focusing on five finding direction, gathering sources, understanding issues, entering discussion and establishing a position. Its goal is to take students directly from a research assignment to a research argument in other words, from topic to thesis."
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First published March 12, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
October 15, 2025
I have no idea how I’m supposed to rate books
October 1, 2025
Somewhere Dr. Marsh is smiling
August 21, 2020
Excellent overview of research paper writing, specifically regarding papers on theology. The appendices are treasure troves of information and hacks to help any thology student gain a better foothold on research!
May 25, 2021
If you're like me and struggled to get through your undergraduate studies, this is a helpful little book on structuring your research projects. I'd highly recommend it.
December 17, 2017
Accomplishes its stated purpose in a readable, accessible, and direct manner. Very helpful.
August 19, 2016
Extremely helpful.
November 28, 2022
Excellent book on the process of theological writing and research. I wish I had read this in seminary. Some real gems (some of which are in the appendices).
August 19, 2022
In his book From Topic to Thesis, Michael Kibbe sets out to establish a clear and concise methodology for students seeking to write an academic theological research project. His goal is to help students to move “from identifying that set of information (your topic) to making an argument about that set of information (your thesis).”
Kibbe presents a five stage methodology for the theological research process, consisting of finding direction, gathering sources, understanding issues, entering discussion and establishing position.
Overall Kibbe’s book was incredibly helpful and useful for students as they set about their theological research project. Written in an engaging manner and with simple language, the book is an easy read and a valuable tool for theological students pursuing higher research.
Kibbe presents a five stage methodology for the theological research process, consisting of finding direction, gathering sources, understanding issues, entering discussion and establishing position.
Overall Kibbe’s book was incredibly helpful and useful for students as they set about their theological research project. Written in an engaging manner and with simple language, the book is an easy read and a valuable tool for theological students pursuing higher research.
May 9, 2018
Practical. Concise. Wise. If you are in grad school and need to write a research paper in theology and biblical studies, this is your guide. How to get started, gather sources, understand the issues, know when enough is enough, and how to finish are all here. In the appendices Kibbe includes many pragmatic do’s and don’ts along with very specific guidance for what sources to use and how to use them.
August 6, 2024
Fine introduction to academic writing. Definitely a helpful source for students entering seminary or Christian undergraduates. His appendices are where Kibbe really shines because he gives lots of helpful advice and introduces you to Zotero (based.) In reality though, I see that as a more helpful resource in graduate work or post-graduate work.
In any case a book worth handing out to people who have either never been to college or have been out of the game for a while.
In any case a book worth handing out to people who have either never been to college or have been out of the game for a while.
September 30, 2019
Super easy read and actually helpful! I read this for a doctoral seminar and while it would be most useful in a college course introducing students to theological writing, it was a great refresher. Don’t skip the appendices! Lots of good stuff there.
November 6, 2025
Required reading for Talbot school of theology, research and writing course. Excellent short little book that was super practical and accessible for me as a new seminary student. Also, it had relevant material for graduate study in the 21st-century. Very thankful for this resource!
April 17, 2020
Very clear and helpful book.
September 6, 2020
Good, simple, and concise guide to writing theological research papers. Very practical with a couple different example projects the author uses throughout to illustrate each step in the process.
June 20, 2023
Short, to the point. Very helpful.
Thanks Shane!
Thanks Shane!
May 21, 2024
Had to read for seminary. Boring fr but helpful fr
May 12, 2025
honestly super helpful. a little boring. would recommend if you’re wiring a research paper lol.
February 25, 2023
2022 reads: 24
Rating: 4 stars
Michael Kibbe’s From Topic to Thesis intends to serve as an instruction manual for those in theological studies. It exclusively looks at the analysis level of research, how one goes about retrieving relevant information for one’s argument. As the title suggests, Kibbe brings readers along a path that moves them from ‘topic’ to ‘thesis’, that is, from broad subject field to a concise argument that will be defended in a research paper. Kibbe grounds theological research within the parameters of confessional commitment, as well as within the support of our spiritual forebearers. What follows is a five-step process that includes: finding direction, gathering sources, understanding issues, entering discussion, and establishing position.
Kibbe’s From Topic to Thesis is a wonderfully concise guide for both newcomers and those with experience. Not only is the argument of the book pointed and wonderfully practical, but it is also couched in wise and gracious vocabulary, encouraging the discouraged and exhorting the proud. One of the benefits of the book is the questions section in each chapter. These questions help frame and apply the material in a way that the reader is forced to interact with the material. Furthermore, each chapter is buoyed by two case studies, which ensure the reader what implementing this insight looks like.
The application is pointed and at once applicable for anyone pursuing theological research. Kibbe has distilled in me a humility as I approach my research, as well as a carefulness in formulating a thesis question that will contribute to my given field. Its contents mirror my own experiences–both the difficulties and joys–in theological research, and thus are an encouragement to me as I seek out its wisdom.
[Read for the Graduate Research Seminar at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary]
Rating: 4 stars
Michael Kibbe’s From Topic to Thesis intends to serve as an instruction manual for those in theological studies. It exclusively looks at the analysis level of research, how one goes about retrieving relevant information for one’s argument. As the title suggests, Kibbe brings readers along a path that moves them from ‘topic’ to ‘thesis’, that is, from broad subject field to a concise argument that will be defended in a research paper. Kibbe grounds theological research within the parameters of confessional commitment, as well as within the support of our spiritual forebearers. What follows is a five-step process that includes: finding direction, gathering sources, understanding issues, entering discussion, and establishing position.
Kibbe’s From Topic to Thesis is a wonderfully concise guide for both newcomers and those with experience. Not only is the argument of the book pointed and wonderfully practical, but it is also couched in wise and gracious vocabulary, encouraging the discouraged and exhorting the proud. One of the benefits of the book is the questions section in each chapter. These questions help frame and apply the material in a way that the reader is forced to interact with the material. Furthermore, each chapter is buoyed by two case studies, which ensure the reader what implementing this insight looks like.
The application is pointed and at once applicable for anyone pursuing theological research. Kibbe has distilled in me a humility as I approach my research, as well as a carefulness in formulating a thesis question that will contribute to my given field. Its contents mirror my own experiences–both the difficulties and joys–in theological research, and thus are an encouragement to me as I seek out its wisdom.
[Read for the Graduate Research Seminar at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary]
May 25, 2020
This is concise, clear, and straight to the point. Kibbe provides helpful advice to those with aspirations in theological research.
February 21, 2018
It’s been ten years since I’ve last written a “theological research paper.” In other words, a bit of rust has accumulated. Maybe a few cobwebs in my methodology. My brain matter has grown a bit soft and my resources a bit old. It’s bad when you can tell how old you are by the edition of Turabian collecting dust on your shelf (why did I hold on to that 6th Edition?).
Enter Michael Kibbe’s helpful little volume: From Topic to Thesis. This is one of those books I wish I had back in the day. As I attempt to shake off the dust for possible doctoral work I want to acquire a refresh and also get caught up to date on the latest research methodologies. From Topic to Thesis is a solid place to start.
Kibbe places the Thesis at the forefront of all theological research. You are not describing something, but arguing a position. I cannot remember how many times I tried to explain that central distinction to my High School English students. I don’t know if they ever fully processed it. But the difference between an argumentative paper and a descriptive paper is significant. In other words, you need to understand the difference and argue in defense of your thesis throughout your paper. If it’s not related to your thesis, if it doesn’t bolster your central argument that it must suffer the fate of the cutting room floor.
Remember: “Your thesis is the heart of and soul of your paper. Every single word, phrase and paragraph in your paper should contribute to your thesis. It something in your paper doesn’t contribute to your thesis, cut it out” (87).
From Topic to Thesis breaks the research paper process up into five areas. First, finding direction where he argues that we should allow our research to help shape our thesis. Finding Direction begins with our primary source and reaches out to broad tertiary sources like dictionaries or encyclopedias. Second, you begin gathering sources. This is where you begin working through secondary sources you discovered from the tertiary sources. Third, you must begin understanding issues. What arguments are being made? What are the reasons for and against those arguments? Here secondary sources are a means to the end of better understanding your thesis in relation to your primary sources. Fourth, entering discussion. Now it’s time to enter into the discussion. What will your research bring to the table? How does your thesis fit into the discussion? Lastly, establishing position. It’s time to write your paper. And it’s time to edit.
The appendixes offer some helpful extras from "Ten Things You Should Never Do in a Theological Research Paper” to “A Suggested Timeline for Theological Research Papers.”
Enter Michael Kibbe’s helpful little volume: From Topic to Thesis. This is one of those books I wish I had back in the day. As I attempt to shake off the dust for possible doctoral work I want to acquire a refresh and also get caught up to date on the latest research methodologies. From Topic to Thesis is a solid place to start.
Kibbe places the Thesis at the forefront of all theological research. You are not describing something, but arguing a position. I cannot remember how many times I tried to explain that central distinction to my High School English students. I don’t know if they ever fully processed it. But the difference between an argumentative paper and a descriptive paper is significant. In other words, you need to understand the difference and argue in defense of your thesis throughout your paper. If it’s not related to your thesis, if it doesn’t bolster your central argument that it must suffer the fate of the cutting room floor.
Remember: “Your thesis is the heart of and soul of your paper. Every single word, phrase and paragraph in your paper should contribute to your thesis. It something in your paper doesn’t contribute to your thesis, cut it out” (87).
From Topic to Thesis breaks the research paper process up into five areas. First, finding direction where he argues that we should allow our research to help shape our thesis. Finding Direction begins with our primary source and reaches out to broad tertiary sources like dictionaries or encyclopedias. Second, you begin gathering sources. This is where you begin working through secondary sources you discovered from the tertiary sources. Third, you must begin understanding issues. What arguments are being made? What are the reasons for and against those arguments? Here secondary sources are a means to the end of better understanding your thesis in relation to your primary sources. Fourth, entering discussion. Now it’s time to enter into the discussion. What will your research bring to the table? How does your thesis fit into the discussion? Lastly, establishing position. It’s time to write your paper. And it’s time to edit.
The appendixes offer some helpful extras from "Ten Things You Should Never Do in a Theological Research Paper” to “A Suggested Timeline for Theological Research Papers.”
April 22, 2022
Really enjoyed this slimmed down introduction to theological research. This is certainly not a research manual, such as Booth, et. al.'s classic Craft of Research -- which he alludes to later in the book.
Kibbe's book functions more like an instructional manual from IKEA -- do this, then this, now this, finally this and voila you have a new cabinet. Here, however, you go from an abstract idea to a solid thesis statement to a completed research paper.
For those accustomed to using Booth or Vyhmeister's Guide to Writing Quality Research Papers, this book will seem thin, light, insipid. However, that is its beauty. In its simplicity, Kibbe provides a workable approach to research.
The discussion questions and examples provided at the end of each chapter both compliment his instructional content and compensate for what might be missing (e.g., what is covered in Booth or Vyhmeister, etc.).
Additionally, his 50+ pages of appendices more than make up for what might seem to be missing. Of note are "Appendix A: Ten Things You Should Never Do In a Research Paper" and "Appendix F: A Suggested Timeline for Theological Research Papers."
Kibbe's book functions more like an instructional manual from IKEA -- do this, then this, now this, finally this and voila you have a new cabinet. Here, however, you go from an abstract idea to a solid thesis statement to a completed research paper.
For those accustomed to using Booth or Vyhmeister's Guide to Writing Quality Research Papers, this book will seem thin, light, insipid. However, that is its beauty. In its simplicity, Kibbe provides a workable approach to research.
The discussion questions and examples provided at the end of each chapter both compliment his instructional content and compensate for what might be missing (e.g., what is covered in Booth or Vyhmeister, etc.).
Additionally, his 50+ pages of appendices more than make up for what might seem to be missing. Of note are "Appendix A: Ten Things You Should Never Do In a Research Paper" and "Appendix F: A Suggested Timeline for Theological Research Papers."
August 15, 2024
4.5 stars. This is a very accessible and helpful introduction to writing a theological research paper for beginning graduate students. It could be of benefit to undergraduates, as well as to doctoral students who need a refresher of the basics. It is not a replacement for the SBL Handbook of Style or Turabian or Vhymeister, but it is a good supplement to these. Kibbe writes with clarity and some wit. He breaks the theological research paper process down into 5 steps, and after a general description of each, he provides examples of how to do each step for two different types of topics: one Biblical Studies and one Theological/Historical Studies.
August 6, 2019
Kibbe's goal is to guide you through writing a research paper, focusing not on literary style or content but on the actual research process. This book is concise (sometimes a bit too concise...a few more examples would have been really helpful), and it offers a good overview of what your goal in researching should be. It also includes helpful appendices that give more specific info on various things, including top resources for specific arenas as well as bibliography software.
All in all, super helpful and makes me feel like my next research project will feel less overwhelming.
All in all, super helpful and makes me feel like my next research project will feel less overwhelming.
November 23, 2018
First, this would have been helpful to read years ago when I was in college! Second, this book is so short that it is a gem to read. Very helpful, concise and to the point! Too many books are overly long. Yet this book dives right in and gets you ready to research and write any theological paper. Kibbe is a great author and a clear communicator! If your in college or seminary or love writing read this book NOW!
August 3, 2019
Settled my nerves about my foray into graduate religion studies...
It has been far too long since I have had to write an “academic” paper, and certainly not one for the humanities! Dr. Kibbe’s work provides a good step-by-step framework for getting organized around a topic, doing your research, and assembling what you need to make a coherent thesis and defend it. I feel like I’m a little better prepared for my new academic journey!
It has been far too long since I have had to write an “academic” paper, and certainly not one for the humanities! Dr. Kibbe’s work provides a good step-by-step framework for getting organized around a topic, doing your research, and assembling what you need to make a coherent thesis and defend it. I feel like I’m a little better prepared for my new academic journey!
January 4, 2023
This book has some useful tips on how to get started on research projects. I read this to see if I was going to use any of it in the research seminar that I am teaching next semester. Unfortunately, for my purposes (a historical theologian who teaches in a religious studies program) this text is too biblical and too confessional for my purposes. I may give some sections to my students but it is not worth having them read the whole thing.
January 26, 2021
I wish someone would have given me a book like this when I started in my undergraduate years. This book gives practical tips on writing well and on how to do the best research possible. I was thoroughly impressed with this short piece.
August 22, 2022
Humorous, helpful (hopefully, we’ll find out this semester!) and humble. The author seeks to assist the seminarian on their quest to create intelligible research, thereby helping the student and aiding the professor (who has to read our submissions :) )
November 20, 2022
Good basics for beginning to write theological research papers. If you've already had good instruction at the masters level, should not be anything super new, but could help with clarity for moving forward.
March 21, 2023
This is very helpful for a new seminary student. I've been having trouble figuring out just HOW to turn a research paper from a pile of quotes into something more. I appreciated this little book very much.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews