Major Bible Themes: 52 Vital Doctrines of the Scriptures Simplified and Explained

by John F. Walvoord, Lewis Sperry Chafer

In an age characterized by skepticism and ignorance of the Holy Scriptures, this timely volume clearly sets forth the biblical truths and teachings that long have been cherished by Christians. Virtually a classic for this century, Major Bible Themes includes chapters on doctrines that merit particular attention in the contemporary religious scene, such as the Holy Spirit, the nature of the Church, and the second coming of Christ. Designed for group and individual study, for pastors, laymen, and students, Major Bible Themes is an indispensable tool, providing the biblical basis for fifty-two doctrines, complete with topical and Scripture indexes. Questions for discussion and review follow each chapter. Whether your purpose is to explore Bible doctrines as a new Christian, to erase confusion stemming from conflicting views in the contemporary church, or to establish a stronger basis for witnessing to your beliefs, Major Bible Themes is essential for study and reference.

Genres: Theology, Christian, Christianity, Nonfiction, Reference, Christian Non Fiction

384 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1926

Reviews

[Nathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

one of my favorite theology books. simple and clear, have read this many times.

[Mauricio González Abrigo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Una muy útil síntesis de las principales doctrinas cristianas. Tiene la virtud de integrar y conectar los distintos temas presentados. Por lo mismo, su contendo resulta sumamente clarificador.

[Lincy Zúñiga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excelente

[Connor McGonagle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Occasionally detailed to a fault, and the biases of the author were abundantly clear, but this theology book encouraged some good discussion for my Bible study group.

[Adam T. Calvert]

I rated this book five stars in 2006 when I first read it. Having come to regard dispensationalism as a Biblically improper method of interpreting Scripture, it's hard for me to recommend this book as I first did. However, while it's system of doctrine is not Biblically solid on some key areas, I'm sure there is still much good a new believer could get from this work.

Here is the text of my original review:

This book is great for new Christians and any student of the Bible who is looking for a survey of theological topics. Its subtitle really says it all: "Doctrines of the Scriptures Simplified and Explained."

It's neatly divided into 52 chapters which make it a great way to learn the Major Themes of the Bible in about a year (a chapter a week).

Chafer is a great theologian and very good at explaining theology in understandable language.

[Brandon Current · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read and keep as resource. This book is set up to be used in church to teach one major doctrine a week. I would not recommend it for teaching. It is great as a review for those who have already studied theology. It is also good as a reference book to quickly overview a topic. However, it tells rather than teaches. Difficult issues are not wrestled with. In fact, the authors seem to not see any difficulty with some of the most debated issues of theology. As a summary this is fine, but as a teaching tool this creates dogmatism where it should not be.

[Bill Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an outstanding book written by Lewis Sperry Chafer, the founder and former president of Dallas Theological Seminary. Each of the 52 chapters is concise, clearly outlined, and packed with scripture.

If every Christian just had a basic understanding of each of these vital doctrines, how much better off would the church of Jesus Christ be today! I have read through it several times and purchase it for all of our church leaders, teachers, and those I'm discipling.

Highly recommended!

[Brad · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great survey study of theology. Not perfect, but really, really solid and approachable. Worthwhile for any small group, or individual, who is interested in beholding Christ through Scripture. A wonderful, lovingly written tool.

[Caleb Gibson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Has some good info and some not so good. Just depends on your theology. This is basically Chafer's theology/ what he believes about the Bible. So I can say, I agree with a lot of what he says and on some part, I disagree.

[Rich · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a great panoramic view of Bible doctrines this is a great read

[Rob · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great introduction to biblical doctrine.

[Dwight Croy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best review of major doctrines; easy to use for teaching.

[Tom Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

This should be required reading.