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Every Woman a Theologian: Know What You Believe. Live It Confidently. Communicate It Graciously.

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Now available in trade paper! Know what you believe and live it boldly! Phylicia Masonheimer believes that every woman should be a theologian and a student of the heart of God. Learn the basics of Christian theology and why it's so important to continue your biblical education to grow deeper in faith. Discover how scriptural knowledge can help you navigate the world, answer your toughest questions, and engage culture in loving ways.
All of us have guiding principles at work behind our choices, even if we don't realize it. We hold beliefs about the world, ourselves, and God—beliefs perhaps we may have adopted unknowingly based on experience or culture's messages.
But God has revealed Himself through Scripture so it can transform how we view and navigate the world—how we think, act, love, work, marry, and parent. When we do that, we become theologians. No, we're not wearing tweed suits or giving lectures; we're driving to our corporate job every morning, or juggling babies on our own, or connecting with our communities. We are women who want to know who God is and how He answers our toughest questions.
Through engaging stories and compelling truths,?Every Woman a Theologian?will help ?
Step in that direction with Phylicia Masonheimer as your guide, and you will grow as a woman able to discern truth, who knows what she believes, and who lives her faith boldly in a post-Christian world.

224 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2023

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Phylicia D. Masonheimer

33 books869 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 379 reviews
Profile Image for Amanda (BookLoverAmanda).
710 reviews1,013 followers
November 28, 2023
I picked this up as part of my friend's Christian book club read this month and I am so glad I read it!

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and rated it 5 stars! Phylicia covers the fundamentals of Christian theology and this book serves as a valuable resource for addressing many questions and topics believers may have. It has become a go-to reference for me, especially when discussing faith-related questions with my husband. I appreciate the author's inclusion of information on various denominations, beliefs, and their historical context. I believe every woman should read this insightful book, as it will encourage and strengthen their faith and provide guidance for many aspects of one's faith journey.
Profile Image for Susy C. *MotherLambReads*.
552 reviews81 followers
January 13, 2024
Bible Literacy! This is what this comes down too! Everyone should be knowledgeable and know why you believe what you believe.

Probably not the best timing for me to be reading a book like this considering my brain is fried, but I really wanted to get to it before the end of the year. I have the physical copy which I will be revisiting. Thank you @TN for the gifted copy.

I appreciated how she explained all the different views and “colors” of different beliefs. The core beliefs are what is important that we know and make sure it’s based on Bible truths. It reminded me alot of Mama Bear Apologetics if you have read that one.
Profile Image for Cathryn.
401 reviews39 followers
May 28, 2024
For the last five years I’ve been researching a lot about theology and this book would’ve been the best primer to get me started. I wish I had this at that time!
* I liked how she defined words at the beginning of the chapters
* I liked that it came across without bias when explaining doctrines
* I liked that she covered many aspects of the doctrines (more than I expected)
The chapter on Ecclesiology ministered to me at this point of my life. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Beverly.
578 reviews111 followers
July 26, 2023
4.5 stars. I wish I’d had this book 15 years ago! Phylicia Masonheimer has a heart for helping women know what they believe, and EWAT is designed to do just that.

This is NOT a Bible study! Instead, she explores various tenets of the Christian faith and how denominations differ in some beliefs and practices. While I feel pretty confident about most of my beliefs, I still learned new things. I especially enjoyed the final chapters on eschatology and different tiers- issues that are crucial (the Trinity) vs those that are preferential (worship style).

If I have one small critique, it’s that she tends to paint her own personal beliefs in a slightly more positive light. I am reformed, but she seems to explain the Wesleyan/Arminian beliefs more thoroughly.
Profile Image for LaurenLoveReads.
252 reviews282 followers
May 2, 2024
This book is such a treasure! Phylicia articulates so many things from so many different angles and I absolutely loved that! Not only did I learn about “what I believe” but I also learned the other side of arguments too. I really really appreciated that. It was so engaging and enlightening! Definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Haley Baumeister.
232 reviews291 followers
June 18, 2024
"A theology book for women? Lame. We women can have the real stuff." Well yes. But let's get it out of the way first, the fact that it is named as such because... it is the name of her ministry organization. :)

I appreciate her filling a need for public theology which equips women to go deeper in their study, serve in their local churches, be hospitable and foster discipleship in their homes. She saw a need for more Biblical and theological literacy in women, who are so often overlooked in this regard. Theology should not be relegated to scholars or pastors, though they fill their own valuable, vital roles. Theology is a study of the nature and person of God, and what Christian doesn't want to know more of his heart and his truth?

Where this book (and her work at large) excels is in an approach that is ecumenical, gracious, clear, and gets to the "why this even matters".

- Ecumenical:
Phylicia has always real widely of scholars and materials from the varied array of orthodox denominations and traditions. She is a Protestant (Wesleyan Arminian) but understands that what many people need are an understanding the basics of actual theology. And this includes offering the range of orthodox theological teachings on various topics side by side. We often don't know why we believe what we do, or even that there are other interpretations and practices out there, and if we do they are not well understood. Her approach is one of presentation with sources and encouragement for further study.

- Gracious and Clear:
She does this with the utmost excellence and respect. She seeks to understand the nuances at play and provide accurate descriptions (using the best sources available). This results in condensing large concepts or frameworks into succinct explanations that can be explored further.

- "Why this even matters":
For scholars, or trained theologians whom she draws from, there is a certain and rightful emphasis on the pure meaning or assertion, getting the argument or interpretation right. For more devotional writers focused on application, there is often a lack on common understanding about the theological concepts drawn from. Phylicia bridges this gap well in her work, seeking to equip people (women especially, as they are often overlooked when it comes to training in Biblical and theological literacy) with the ability to see how theology informs the way we live, move, work, serve, study and parent on a daily, even hourly basis. Doctrine in our heads leads to devotion in our life. Orthodoxy (right belief) is inseparable with Orthopraxy (right conduct).

For someone who is completely overwhelmed with the idea of the big frameworks and ideas Christians are working with, this is a great introduction to the basics! She weaves in relevant stories that bridge the head and heart of the matters.

*A while back I made a joke about how Emily Stimpson Chapman was the Catholic version of Phylicia Masonheimer, and she responded saying that when she introduces people to Phylicia's work, she actually tells them "She does a lot of what I do, but for Protestants!" Funny stuff.
Profile Image for Emily Waits (emilylovesreading_).
325 reviews93 followers
July 24, 2024
“Doctrine leads to devotion.”

Theology MATTERS. I’m so passionate about this. I love Phylicia’s heart to see more women understand what they believe and why, so that they can know and love God more, live as faithful disciples, and make new disciples wherever they go.

This book gives an excellent overview of core doctrines but also delves into differences between various denominations. I appreciated the way that Phylicia distinguishes between essential, first tier doctrines that all Christians must hold to and tertiary, or secondary, views that Christians can disagree on.

One small critique: I felt that there may have been some unintentional bias in favor of the author’s personal views on certain things. I noticed this in the chapter about reformed theology versus Arminianism. I hold a different stance than I believe this author does, so it stood out to me. Just an observation. :)

Overall, an excellent resource! I highly, highly recommend reading and even purchasing Every Woman a Theologian. I’d hold this book up next to Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin, which is very high praise from me as I absolutely LOVE that book.

Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Jordan Taylor.
Author 1 book28 followers
March 12, 2023
Phylicia’s whole ministry is about making theology accessible and to equip women to know what they believe, live it confidently, and communicate it graciously - so I was thrilled to see that she’d written a book about exactly that! This is a book for a Christian on any walk of their journey who is eager to put to words what they believe. For the new or undiscipled Christian, this is a fantastic crash course in Christian doctrine. For the seasoned Christian, this is a healthy unpacking of the beliefs we hold onto. I’m encouraged and challenged!
Profile Image for Stacy Myers.
212 reviews159 followers
November 3, 2025
The most easy to understand book I’ve ever read on theology - and I went to Bible college. 😂🫣

Not just for women - this is the name of her ministry - a great guide to go along with your daily Bible reading.
Profile Image for Gel.
241 reviews2 followers
January 15, 2024
“Pursue theology to pursue God’s heart, and you will be surprised to find that doctrine leads to devotion.”

I’m going to go ahead and say that this may be the best book I read this year. Yes, this is a book about theology, but it’s not a textbook. Phylicia makes theology relevant, hard concepts understandable, and a book that would seem dry - so, so full of life. I was in tears multiple times, because she just brings the gospel to life through her words.

This book is for you, the woman thinking her husband is the theologian and she just needs to follow him. God called you, too. He wants you to know Him, to know His word and His heart.
This book is for you, the woman coming out of a damaging church, who feels lost and confused. Or for you, the one who grew up in the church but still knows surprisingly little about theology.
This book is also for the woman searching for what she believes - it’s okay to be questioning. Start here.
And if you’re a guy, read this too! (I just put it on my husbands nightstand 😅).

“Before theology became an academic pursuit, it was the foundation for a living, active faith in Jesus—and it still is today. Faith is not just a feeling; it requires an engaged mind.”
Profile Image for Lonita Shirk Miller.
233 reviews16 followers
December 16, 2024
This is a basic theology book. I was expecting it to be more about why every woman should be a theologian or how every woman can be a theologian well in a patriarchal culture. I recognize the significance of a basic theology text in an accessible format. It just wasn't quite what I needed.

For someone who hasn't grown up in Christianity, this could be such a helpful book about theology. People who have grown up in Christianity will probably know all the concepts and doctrines that she talks about, but it could be helpful to learn the official terminology like eschatology, soteriology, pneumatology, etc as well as the varying views on end times, free will, etc. Someone who has already taken a theology class will probably already know most of what she has to say, except it could be nice for a short review.
Profile Image for Janessa Miller.
150 reviews24 followers
August 6, 2023
This is a wonderful, accessible overview of sound biblical theology from beginning to end. She makes it clear that the point of this is knowing God and His love, to then, in connection with Him, love others. THAT is Christianity. It feels difficult to find people talking about sound theology from a place of love and connection, which is why I really value Phylicia's words here.

There is no focus on one view point or interpretation, but she lays out the different stances for interpretation and what is of first, second, and third tier importance in Christianity.

I particularly liked the chapters on the Spirit and the end times which are sound and freeing instead of fear mongering.
Profile Image for Alyssa Yoder.
322 reviews22 followers
July 10, 2023
This is a solid, gracious, and broad introduction to theology, written in a conversational but not condescending tone. My favorite sections were the chapter on the Holy Spirit (her insight about the Spirit-led life being one of attachment and not willpower was a lightbulb moment for me) and the conclusion, where she talked about using our knowledge with discernment, humility, and love. I also appreciated the primer on eschatology. I do wish she'd included resources for further study, since my interest is now piqued and I long to deep dive in many of the areas she mentioned. (Especially the Holy Spirit, so if any of you have resources, let me know in the comments).
Profile Image for emily spilman.
179 reviews3 followers
March 2, 2024
i found this book to be very well written & articulate. masonheimer does a great job explaining theological concepts in a concise yet articulate way. she, overall, presents each topic & view in a nonbias manner, letting the reader interpret & study to gain their own perspective. i found some of her stories & analogies to actually be helpful & engaging, they did not take away from the points & facts she was presenting in the book. i would recommend this book to any newer believer or any believer looking for a concise or articulate presentation of the theological foundations of the faith. there’s an accompanying workbook that is full of depth & encourages further curiosity for the reader. i went through this book with a woman i was discipling & would totally use it again!
Profile Image for Tiffany.
63 reviews20 followers
July 26, 2023
Phylicia Masonheimer definitely has the gift of teaching. Her writing is concise and clear. I wouldn’t go into this book thinking you’ll come away with what to think about God, but rather insight on how to know what you think about Him for yourself.
Profile Image for Kelsey Williams.
104 reviews
February 23, 2025
This book was well written and easy to understand! It’s a broad introduction to theology that gets you thinking about why you believe what you believe. I’m not sure why it’s “for women” apart from the author being a woman. Although, I do feel like this would be a great book for a small group!
Profile Image for Lindsay Lemus.
443 reviews52 followers
January 1, 2024
"The study of theology equips us to love well. If it doesn't, it's not a biblical theology. The heart of all this truth about God throbs with the rhythm of endless grace. No one is too far gone to turn around and run home. The arms of Christ were pinned to a cross once for all time, and they remain open to all who will call upon His name."

I really enjoyed reading this book, and although I knew many of the things she talked about because of my own studies and growth with the Lord the past couple of years, I still think this book was beneficial to just remember the basics. I highly recommend for anyone who is interested in theology and/or new to following Christ and needs a broad overview to help you get started.
Profile Image for Elise.
561 reviews
October 4, 2023
This book was just okay. In fairness, I listened to the audio rather than reading words on the page. If you decide to read this, I'd recommend reading as opposed to listening.

Some of her explanations were a bit confusing. Was she explaining the false doctrine or what she thought was the Biblical theology? Sometimes, it was hard to decipher.

I didn't agree with all of the views she shared as "freedom theology," meaning it's a liberty issue. Baptism isn't a liberty issue.

All in all, this was just an okay read. It's definitely not my favorite Phylicia Masonheimer book. I won't read this again or encourage my girls to read this one.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
756 reviews5 followers
July 1, 2025
This was a rich, but concise book on theology for anyone that is dipping their toe into deeper study. The author is explains different views on issue that deeply divide believers and it was helpful to have them in one place to compare. It makes me want to study more. I do give more weight to what she calls “secondary issues” that she does, but otherwise, I found the information helpful and easy to process and understand while still giving me a lot to think about and a desire to pursue these issues on a deeper level.
Profile Image for Becca.
788 reviews48 followers
March 13, 2023
This is a great “birds’ eye view” theology book.
If you’ve been a Christian for a long time, this will likely be refresher of sorts, but still valuable. I’m convinced that often maturity in the Christian faith looks like going deeper into the basics over time.
If you’re a relatively new believer, this is a great starting place on the essential teachings in these areas:
Scripture
God
Creation, Humanity, Sin
Christ
Salvation
Holy Spirit
Church
Last Things

The author outlines the most prominent views on each of these topics, and explains how those views came to be in the arc of church history. She also explains how what we believe influences our perspectives and day to day life.

I would say the tone is more academic than expected; there are a lot of terms and definitions. That is of course not a bad thing, but I think it’s good to know going in.

If you’ve been encouraged by the likes of Jen Wilkin and Amy Cate Gannett, Every Woman a Theologian will be a great continuation of theological study for you.

Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Laura NC.
59 reviews
April 20, 2023
Excellent primer to introduce the study of theology to a new believer or young woman. It’s perfect next step for women who understand the gospel, have participated in Bible study but would also like to begin a journey to understand the doctrines of our faith. The author strives to remain balanced and presents multiple views on 8 topics of theology.
Profile Image for Tara Cherry.
16 reviews3 followers
Read
December 10, 2025
This book is so foundational for women that want to further know and understand what they believe and why. It’s written in language that anyone could understand, which makes it so approachable. If you want to get a basic understanding of theology, or even take things to the next level, this is the book for you.
Profile Image for Morgan Giesbrecht.
Author 2 books186 followers
January 15, 2025
This book was phenomenal! I’ve enjoyed Phylicia’s writing, social media posts, and podcast episodes for a while, so I knew this book was going to be great. It exceeded my hopes!

Whether you’re new to the Christian faith or a seasoned believer, there’s plenty of food for thought.

My absolute favourite part was the last chapter on eschatology (the end times). Phylicia broke it down to 4 schools of thought. I grew up believing one way, and for 20 years, I had never even heard of the other 3 branches; I thought the way I was taught was the accepted biblical standard. Then I met someone who believed differently. That rocked my world. Not that they believed differently (through that did surprise me because I had no idea!) but because they said that anyone who believed the way I did was a heretic and deceived. Ever since then, the end times have puzzled me. But I love how she handled it here—the end times aren’t something to be feared. If we’re sealed in Christ, regardless of how it plays out, it’s a time of victory. Each of the 4 branches have biblical basis and varying historical credence. Frankly, it isn’t a salvation issue, and it is something we can disagree on without throwing out the name heretic at each other. It made me want to study more!

Can’t recommend this enough!
Profile Image for Blessing Bloodworth (naptimereaders).
531 reviews268 followers
March 20, 2024
3.5 ⭐️

This book could be just the thing for some readers. Masonheimer writes to give Christian women a biblical understanding of the gospel and its practical application, and also a confidence to explain and defend their own faith. Beyond this, she also writes with a desire for readers to walk away with a greater love for and devotion to God through their study of Him. Although I don’t agree with every viewpoint the author holds, I appreciate her ability to present an overview of Christian doctrine in a way that isn’t overly academic or overly casual.

Readers should approach this book as a high-flying overview of each doctrine and not as an in-depth explanation. Neither is it a book on how to build your own approach to studying theology (as the title suggests), but it attempts to provide women with a foundation for continuing their own pursuit. This book attempts to cover a lot of content in a very small amount of space, so some concepts felt rushed through. It’s a helpful starting point for those newer to studying doctrine, but others may want something that focuses on specific issues with more depth.

Thank you to Netgalley and W Publishing/Thomas Nelson for the complimentary ebook in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
Profile Image for Kait.
835 reviews55 followers
April 5, 2023
“Every Woman a Theologian” is a solid introduction to theology! Broken up by topic (e.g., Christology, cosmology, etc.), Phylicia Masonheimer has compiled an excellent jumping off point for both reflection and further study. I found the reminders of God’s mercy towards sinners, especially as we are winding our way to Easter, particularly moving– being reminded of the how/why behind your faith is so important. The reason for my 4 star rating is not for wonky theology (at most, I found some mildly yellow flags in how she expressed her ideas but NOT in the ideas themselves) but for these things:

1) If you’re not a “church kid,” a lot of these ideas will, in my estimation, befuddle you, such as the four views on eschatology. I am a church kid and I still found some of the content daunting! Which leads to my next point.
2) I think this book would be best read with a friend or a group (or your husband who is in seminary #itme) *and* with the companion workbook. Use her chapter on ecclesiology as inspiration and find some Christians to discuss this book with!
Profile Image for Hannah Hoffman.
84 reviews
November 4, 2024
nice quick overview of most foundational christian beliefs/church history. i found her walkthrough of things like where denominations come from/differ, the main viewpoints on the end times, etc to be a fair explanation of each viewpoint. overall, both helpful and refreshing.

not a must-read but a good beginning resource
Profile Image for Rocio.
58 reviews2 followers
May 27, 2024
A beginners guide to systematic theology. Some of my favorite chapters were on Pneumatology & Eschatology. I loved that she gave different sides on certain doctrines and not just what she believes. It’s a good book to start on the study of systematic theology. Will be recommending to the women in my life! Hope it will get translated into Spanish someday.
Profile Image for Oceana Reads Co..
953 reviews2,357 followers
November 27, 2023
This is an excellent read for people who have never studied the Christian faith before.
It has a wealth of knowledge related to different Biblical and faith terms that are slightly higher level but so useful to know even as a layman Christian.

I could see this being used in a Bible study format. Lots of thoughtful discussion inspired here.

Great choice, Keisha!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 379 reviews

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