Know the Truth: A Handbook of Christian Belief

by Bruce Milne

Understanding and appreciating who God is and what he has done for us is at the center of the Christian faith. Right belief is the first step to getting everything else right--from home to work, from worship to witness, from self-understanding to service. In this concise handbook Bruce Milne summarizes in masterly fashion what the Bible teaches in the major areas of Christian doctrine (the Bible, God, humanity, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the church and the last things). He explains the historical understanding and development of these truths from the early church to the present. In doing so he impartially highlights denominational and theological differences where appropriate. Know the Truth offers comprehensive biblical material on all the essential doctrines. The revised edition, published in 1999, includes new and updated material drawing on the latest biblical and theological studies. Further, it considers doctrine in the face of recent changes in the world and the church--along with challenges from movements such as the New Age, postmodernism, feminism and pluralism. In addition, each section concludes with a thorough listing of Scripture passages, questions to stimulate further reflection and a completely updated bibliography to aid further study. Here is a helpful and thorough resource for all who want to understand the essential Christian faith.

Genres: Theology, Christian, Christianity, Reference, Religion, Nonfiction, Faith

352 pages, Paperback

First published May 4, 1982

Reviews

[G Walker · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good basic overview of the evangelical faith. Nothing earth shattering. Clear, concise presentation. Reformed (mostly anyway). Some of the issues are dealt with simplistically, but still, I see the value for having in a church library. Nothing great - but not too bad either. The danger of this book would be an immature believer thinking this is a final word or a definitive guide to the issues... not eclectic or ecumenical enough for that... a bit narrow in scope.

[Samcwright · Rating 3 out of 5]

A solid overview of Christian belief. It can sometimes be difficult to nail down what Christians believe because they mix what they WANT Christianity to be with what their different faiths actually teach. Another helpful book when understanding what is unique to the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

[Joseph Walliker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be right back, I've got to recommend this book to everyone in my church! A fantastic overview of faith and Christian theology.

[Christopher Rush · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to say "it was okay," but 2 stars seems a bit parsimonious. It's probably not the best systematic theology out there, as some sections are tainted by Milne's ecology and amillennialism, but it's decent enough. It certainly seems aimed toward the novice level, which is good for people who want an entry-level systematic theology. On the other hand, it does have some goofy arrangements, and it is lacking in a few things like anthropology. Its eschatology is noncommittal (though leaning to amillennialism, as I said) and rather terse. It has nothing at all concerning Satanology and Angelology, which is rather disappointing (I'm not sure if Milne is trying not to scare people away or what). It has study guide questions, which may help facilitate classroom or study group work, but most of the questions are simple and obvious and don't facilitate a lot of higher-level thinking. I wouldn't have chosen this for my class, but the Powers that Be dictated its use. That's fine - it was satisfactory in its way.

[Ann Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clearly written systematic theology. Topics: Bible, God, Mankind & Sin, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Church, the Last Things. Great to dip into for specific topics.

[Joe Anady]

Excellent introduction to Christian doctrine. Brief enough to use in the church, and yet not overly simplistic.

[Neil Saltmarsh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Normally this type of book, that is apologetics, doesn't interest me and like a dose of cod liver oil I imbibed slowly with many sips. It is good to know what you believe and why you believe it but I think that no matter how much you may or may not know will not convince anyone who decidedly believes otherwise. However, as I said, I read it because it was good for me and if someone asks me a question maybe I am more equipped to answer thoughtfully. Still there is no substitute for saying I don't know, if you truly don't.

[Sam Chretien]

One of the first books on Christian doctrine that I was introduced to. Milne teaches from a pastors heart and has the mind of a scholar. Also, the fact J.I. Packer endorsed the book. There can be no higher praise.

[Eamon Marlow · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic overview of core modern orthodox Christian beliefs. Obviously basic, but it was not purposed to be anything more.

Wonderful recommendation for any confused on where to start in understanding The Truth.

[Paul Vawter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty standard introduction to systematic theology from a Baptist, amillennial, reformed perspective. Milne is favorable toward charismaticism and dismissive of dispensationalism.

[Peter J Delain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Understanding the Christian faith

A thorough investigation of biblical principles and positions. Without forcing any direction, the author provides a road map of Christian theology.

[Roberto Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

A complete overview of the doctrines of the faith, including the wide ranging views and perspectives held by different groups within Christendom.

The perfect resource for every Christian.

[Whit Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really helpful, lighter than systematic theology, but still very clear, through, and organized

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has impacted my life more than any other (bar the Bible itself)

[Kingsley Layton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful and resourceful.

[Connor Longaphie · Rating 1 out of 5]

I still fail to see the point of short books that attempt to cover many issues. Google renders this and others like it useless. I liked it less the second time

[Ezra Tambo]

i need to understand doctrine

[Norman Falk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Muy bueno. Básico, pero da buena base e introducción para Teología Sistemática.