Theologians You Should Know: An Introduction: From the Apostolic Fathers to the 21st Century

by Michael Reeves

Whether you realize it or not, you are the beneficiary of centuries of careful study and reflection on God's Word. The writings and teachings of figures from the past are crucial to what the church believes today. But just like intriguing guests of honor at a dinner party, these theologians can be intimidating to get to know. Introducing you to the lives and thought of figures such as the Apostolic Fathers, Justin Martyr, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Karl Barth, and others, this book makes the writings of these significant theologians accessible and approachable―opening up for you the riches of church history and enlarging your vision of God and his plan for the world.

Genres: Christian, Theology, History, Biography, Church History, Faith, Christianity

336 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2016

About the author

Michael Reeves (PhD, King's College, London) is President and Professor of Theology at Union School of Theology in the UK (www.ust.ac.uk). He is Director of the European Theologians Network, and speaks and teaches regularly worldwide. Previously he has been Head of Theology for the Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship and an associate minister at All Souls Church, Langham Place, London.

Reviews

[Bruce D · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun read! I enjoy reading theology books but have always struggled with the Church Fathers. This book opens up their world and allows their thoughts and beliefs to reach mine. I have and will continue to recommend this book to Christians today.

[Nelleke Plouffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will affect my reading list for years to come.

[Matthew Richey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Reeves might be the best contemporary writer of anyone I've read in the field of theology (as an actual writer). He truly is a delight and joy to read. He somehow communicates profundity and depth of thought alongside a joy and delight in his subject that is rarely so married. Reeves' goal in writing this book is to grow your desire to "go back to the sources" and read the giants of Christian Theology from the past by whetting your appetite and otherwise staying out of the way. He does an amazing job of stirring the intellect and the heart to pursue God through the work of those who have gone before us. Highly recommended - if you haven't read Reeves before, I think you'll find him a delight to read.

[Collin Scribner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winsome, engaging, thoughtful, practical. Really enjoyed piecing through this one theologian by theologian, and it has really encouraged me to press on in my personal study of church history and its many giants!

[Eric Wu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great. Michael Reeves is great. You should read this great book.

[Allaina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my second Reeves book, and although I didn’t enjoy it nearly as much as “Delighting in the Trinity”, I think it accomplishes its goal of being an access point to the early church fathers’ writings (as well as the modern theologians of course). This book is a really good source and gateway to lots of other readings!

[Lizzy Tonkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cannot recommend this book enough.

[Scquest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Point: God has blessed the Church with theologians who have, and continue to, greatly impact our understanding of Him and his work. We must know these theologians and read them.

Path: Reeves divides each chapter into two sections. He beings with a general biography of the individual (or individual) based on what we know, and then moves through some of their dominate works. He concludes each chapter with suggested reading and a timeline. The theologians highlighted in this work are:
Apostolic Fathers, Justin Martyr and Irenaeus, Athanasius, Augustine, Anselm, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Owen, Jonathan Edwards, Friedrich Schleiermacher, Karl Barth, and J.I. Packer.

Sources: Primary sources (of which he is encouraging us to read!) and biographies.

Agreement: This was an extremely helpful book. I was thankful that he chose the individuals that he did, although I wish he would do a follow up volume with even more theologians. He challenged my thinking on the Apostolic Fathers, encouraged me greatly with Athanasius, surprised me with Schleiermacher and Barth, and challenged me with every chapter. I needed this book, and others like it.

Personal App: Am I content with characterizing someone one or their viewpoint, or am I willing to listen directly to them?

Favorite Quote: “Reading the greats ought to breed modesty, and he who spends time with these giants should sense what a clod he is. The reality, though, is that even the vaguest familiarity with a celebrity can induce the most cockeyed egotism” (317).

It would be worth another read and I would recommend it to someone who:
Is studying theology
Is looking for a grounding in church history

[G0thamite · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great review of a selection of major theologians from the Apostolic Fathers up until J.I. Packer. Each chapter begins with a brief biography, followed by a high-level summary of major works. Could be used as one source among several in a historical theology class. Highly recommended!

[Renee Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Theologians You Should Know by Michael Reeves is a unique book that introduces stalwarts of church history: from the early church to the late J.I. Packer. The introduction of this book is incredibly helpful as Reeves explains his motive for writing this book—he wants to humanize faith heroes and allow “the reader [to] get to know the theologians on their own terms” (15) by providing background information on their lives at the point in church history, but also by highlighting each theologian’s major works. I appreciate Reeves’ transparency in why he included the selected theologians mentioning he has “minor disagreements with every theologian here, and major problems with a few” (17) — and I can affirm I align more appropriately with some and not at all with others. This unique inclusion causes the reader to approach the book critically and cautiously, but optimistically. After reading the book, my understanding of right doctrine, an appreciation for the history of the Church, and ability to discern right from almost right teaching enlarged. However, in order to get the most out of this book, you do need to have a basic understanding of how Christianity spread in the early Church and you should be familiar, even if only in name, some big names in the faith.

One critique I do have of this book is that there is little differentiation between Roman Catholicism (RCC) and biblical, orthodox Christianity in places that can be confusing. It also would have been helpful to have a short aside of the state of the Church, the monopoly of RCC, and how what we know today as “biblical Christianity” is challenged during the dark ages between Augustine and Anslem.

So many of these names are familiar and at times are intimidating to study, but Reeves does a fantastic job making them approachable by sharing their shortcomings when many times you have only heard the noteworthy accomplishments of their lives. As a result of reading this book, I love the Jesus of the Bible more. I love the great minds of the faith who have gone before that cause me to think deeper and love better and stand firmer. I love what Jesus has done in preserving his Church from the garden to garden so the gates of Hell will not prevail—from Roman rule to the Reformation to Revelation. This is a challenging and inviting book for anyone wanting to explore the theological greats (or perhaps not-so-greats) from the past and feel comfortable picking up their original works for deeper study. Anyone can read this book and have their affections for Truth swell.

[Jed Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and accessible. If you want to understand the biggest theological issues and the brilliant thinkers who’ve paved the way, this is your book. It also serves as a de facto study of the critical issues and preservation of orthodoxy in Christian history.

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This very good beginning resource for those wanting to get started with theologians. Like others have said, this is pretty Calvinist-heavy, but it is nice to have a quick introduction to the life and major works of many of the most influential theologians in history. Although I would argue that whether J.I. Packer is truly THE key theologian of the 21st century is open to dispute -- or perhaps whether a 21st century figure should even be included at this point should be a question. Pope Paul VI, Pope Benedict, Billy Graham, or even N.T. Wright might be better contenders for this slot.

This book offers an introduction to the following theological players in history:
1. The Apostolic Fathers (yes, all/most of them in one chapter)
2. Justin Martyr and Irenaeus
3. Athanasius
4. Augustine
5. Anselm (VERY interesting chapter, by the way!)
6. Thomas Aquinas
7. Martin Luther
8. John Calvin
9. John Owen
10. Jonathan Edwards
11. Friedrich Schleiermacher
12. Karl Barth
13. J.I. Packer

What really makes this book a golden resource, though, is the end matter of each chapter -- a timeline of major historical and biographical events and a list of some of the best translations/primary sources and biographies of the focal theologian for further reading. I will definitely be keeping this around, even as a future church worker, for memory refreshers and a helpful starting bibliography for deeper reading.

There is always a bias with a theological biographer, and this book can be no exception -- even from the standpoint of which theologians appear to heft the greatest weight in this book. From what I could tell, Michael Reeves is pretty fair, but I would definitely like to read further into sources, as I would need to do in order to feel both that I better understand each theologian and also how to evaluate Reeves' theological summaries for each author.

[J Kevin Whear · Rating 5 out of 5]

This year I became familiar with Reeves' works and have been thoroughly blessed and also with this particular book. Reeves gives a thumbnail sketch of each theologian, their life, the spirit of their age and how it shaped their theology. It was a great pleasure to meet again Athanius, Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, Luther, Calvin, Owen, Edwards, Barth and Packer. I tried with an open mind to read the section on Schleiermacher, but did not find any jewels of value.

[Matt Kottman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one took me a while to read... putting it down and picking it back up. However, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Reeves does a great job of giving vignettes of a sampling of history’s most influential theologians as well as an intro to their great works. If you’re going to dive into the original sources, this book will give you a map and a compass for what can feel like uncharted waters.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent introduction to some of the most important theologians in the history of the church. Each chapter provides an introduction to the theologian, a summary of his work, and direction for future study. There are two things that I especially appreciated about the book. First, these introductions are substantial but not so technical that they become difficult to read. the other is the respect that he shows for those with whom I assume he disagrees. It provides a model for listening to and learning from those with whom we have significant differences.

Some readers will question the inclusion of J.I. Packer. Many of us who were influenced early in our theological journey by Knowing God have a deep respect for him but he certainly has not had the same kind of influence on the history and direction of theology that the other individuals discussed have had. That said, Reeves indication that Packer wanted to have a pastoral/practical emphasis in this theology makes him important for life and ministry.

[Dylan Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michael Reeves accomplishes his goal of making the reader (me) want to read more and learn more about these and other theologians. Personally, this book made me examine my own beliefs more deeply and come out more convinced of the goodness of God.

The spread is theologians is somewhat diverse in how they are spread out across time, but after the big ones you HAVE to mention (Augustine, Luther, big early church father names) the bulk of the theologians are heavily Calvinist. There are some great and inspiring theologians outside of a reformed tradition and it would have been nice to hear about some of those.

Nevertheless, he only had so much space and I enjoyed learning more about the names I had heard before and the completely new ones. The way he lays out chapters is helpful and he is by and large very fair and neutral with each theologian.

[Jason Foreman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reeves delivers on exactly what he sets out to do -- point his readers to the sources. Most figures in the book I have read samplings of (even Schleiermacher, thank you, Elmhurst College) but I've never quite known exactly where to dive in on them to get a real taste for their thought. This book was so helpful to that end. Great overview of their theology and influence, and even better springboard into the thinkers themselves.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

(3.5 stars) This book really does do a good job of presenting a short summary of the life and thought of some key theologians through history. It’s nothing ground-breaking, but it is a good introduction and points the way for further study if desired.

One of the interesting things for me in reading this was to realize how influenced I’ve been in my own thinking by J I Packer.

[Adam Lees · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reeves is really good at making intimidating topics accessible without dumbing them down. As an atheist I always thought Christianity was for people who didn't know better, but I then discovered that it is in fact a fiercely intellectual tradition. This book is a great way to encounter some of the best and brightest in their context.

[JDennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic overview of some of the great nonapostolic thought leaders throughout history who shaped and framed Christiaan understanding of the nature of God and our relationship to Him. It will inevitably draw the reader toward a further readings of and/or on these great men of faith.

[Caleb N · Rating 3 out of 5]

Everyone interested in theology should read this, easy read.

[Debbie Brandenburg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent quick read, but with enough depth to wet one's appetite for more.

[Lauren O'Neill · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author did what he set out to do... I feel like I have been given one Dorito, and now I want the whole bag.

[Timothy Hui · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative introduction to important theologians, although the inclusion of Schleiermacher is surprising.

[Benedict F. Shafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written, interesting and informative.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for beginners

I have long desired to start reading theology to understand the background of today’s Christianity. This is a perfect guide to know where to start.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was wonderful!

[Michael Boling · Rating 5 out of 5]

As self-titled book nerd and Seminary survivor, I can humbly state there are many, many theologians for which I have at least a passing familiarity. It seems everyone gravitates towards certain scholars/theologians for a variety of reasons ranging from the subject matter that formed the locus of the author’s writings, to perhaps the way the theologian framed their points. Given the wide range of individuals one can rightly claim had a lasting influence and thus should be paid attention to, it is somewhat difficult to narrow down the list to a select few. Michael Reeves takes a stab at doing just that in his informative book Theologians You Should Know.

Over the course of thirteen chapters, Reeves explores the lives and thought of some top notch and very influential theologians. He begins his investigation by looking at the Apostolic Fathers. For those not familiar with who the Apostolic Fathers are, they are the individuals that immediately followed the Apostles and who wrote and ministered from the end of the first century to the middle of the second century A.D. Polycarp, a disciple of the Apostle John is arguably one of the more well-known figures in this period.

Next on the list is Justin Martyr and Irenaeus, two men who lived, wrote, and ministered during the tumultuous period of the latter half of the second century A.D. Reeves aptly notes the various heresies these men battled against during this period, perhaps most notably Gnosticism. I appreciated the fact Reeves shares some free tools by which to engage the writings of Justin Martyr and Irenaeus as well as providing some other helpful resources such as the venerable Ante-Nicene series as well as some other works by authors who specialize in areas of these men’s works.

Reeves also explores the life and writings of men such as Athanasius, Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, and well-known theologians such as Luther, Calvin, Owen, Edwards, Barth, and J. I. Packer. I would submit that outside of Athanasius, Anselm, and perhaps Barth, most are at least somewhat familiar with this group of men. One person whom Reeves discusses I believe many are not familiar with and who had a noted influence is Friedrich Schleiermacher, a man often known as the father of theological liberalism.

Schleiermacher was a well-written theological, penning works on the writings of Plato, preaching numerous sermons, writing New Testament studies and various texts on hermeneutics to name just a few of his achievements. Reeves rightly notes that many have a hard time trying to figure out Schleiermacher and after reading the chapter on him, I can see why there is so much difficulty understanding exactly where he stood on many theological topics. I am not sure I will make the effort to dig into the works of Schleiermacher in the near future, but if I do, I will definitely start with the primer Reeves has provided as otherwise, I would be quite lost on the basics of Schleiermacher’s positions on Scripture.

If you have a desire to obtain a quick yet helpful grasp of where some of the great theological minds from the first century A.D. to present stood and the period in which they lived, wrote, and ministered, then I highly recommend Theologians You Should Know by Michael Reeves. Once can certainly argue their case that others could or should have been included, but I think Reeves did a great job with his selections. This book is informative, is full of valuable information, provides helpful timelines and suggestions for further study, and thus is a book I know I will return to in the future should I need some tidbits of information on these men. Check it out. I think you will enjoy learning about these particular theologians and this book might just whet your appetite for further study on one or all of these important figures of theology.

I received this book for free from Crossway Books and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Premise/plot: Theologians You Should Know introduces readers to over a dozen theologians. The first two chapters of this one cover more than one theologian. Chapter one focuses on the 'apostolic fathers,' and chapter two focuses on Justin Martyr and Irenaeus. The rest of the chapters--chapters three through thirteen--focus on one theologian apiece. These theologians are: Athanasius, Augustine, Anselm, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Owen, Jonathan Edwards, Friedrich Schleiermacher, Karl Barth, J.I. Packer.

Each chapter is well-organized. Readers first read several pages of biographical material. This also helps place the theologian in context--his life and times. Next readers read a (relatively) brief summary of the theologian's "thought." But that is not all--far from it. Readers are provided reader-friendly summaries to that theologian's works. (If the theologian wrote a LOT, then just the "main" books are summarized.) Each chapter concludes with a "Going On" feature. Reeves carefully and purposefully guides you--encourages you--what to read next. (There is also a timeline for each theologian).

My thoughts: Reading the book straight through provides readers with a good, basic overview. But I think the book would also serve as a great reference book. I think each chapter could stand alone, and, your interest could guide you along.

What I appreciated was the author's easy-going, reader-friendly approach. I like his honesty. I came to trust him. This is what he has to say about John Owen, "Owen, it has to be said, was pretty merciless toward his readers. He expected them to be serious and committed" and "There are no gentle introductions, there is often little sense to the order of a book, and, bluntly, he does go on a bit. But all that is nothing to the way he writes. It feels as if Latin was his real native tongue, and so, when he tries to write in English, the result is uncomfortably complicated. Thus, trying to imbibe Owen in large doses can be a bit like drinking rather too much Horlicks. J. I. Packer’s suggested medicine is to read Owen out loud, which can help a bit. But, to be honest, whether read, said, chanted, or rapped, Owen is tough meat." He doesn't suggest you skip him, however. He says the place to start is Communion with God. It's tough, but, worth it in the end.

The book could have been intimidating or condescending. But it wasn't. Reeves is an excellent guide that makes you want to read theology.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book - it was so interesting to have a look at what different theologians over the millennia have thought, and Mike Reeves does a brilliant (as ever) job of looking at them informally and giving snippets which bring them to life while piquing your interest of wanting to actually read the source material.
The one thing that left a bit of an odd taste with me, however, was "Where are all the women?" It's bothering me, actually - where are all the women? How is it that in millennia of theologians, there has (seemingly, according to this book), never been a single woman who contributed anything to how we understand God as he reveals himself through Jesus and Spirit? I've been googling it and it's a question that will stick with me.