Systematic Theology 3 Vol. Set

by Thomas C. Oden

Three volumes, two millennia of thought, one masterpiece of synthesis Emphasizing the beliefs common to all branches of Christendom rather than the issues that divide, Thomas Oden brings the full weight of two millennia of discussion to bear on the ever-contemporary questions of Christian faith. His magisterial study not only treats the traditional elements of systematic theology, referencing hundreds of theologians— Protestant, Catholic, Orthodox, charismatic—but also highlights the foundational exegetes of history. Broadly ecumenical in the truest sense of the word, and written from the perspective of a theological liberal-turned-evangelical, Oden’s direct, frank, and provocative approach articulates the concerns of a broad spectrum of Christians—pastors, teachers, seminarians, and thoughtful laity. Though comprehensive in scope, the set is arranged in a Trinitarian fashion with each volume focusing on one person of the godhead. The first volume explores the Christian understanding of God, creation and providence. The second volume discusses Christ and the Incarnation. The third volume considers the presence of the Holy Spirit in history, and his power in the lives and communities of present day believers. • Volume 1: The Living God • Volume 2: The Word of Life • Volume 3: Life in the Spirit PRAISE FOR SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY "Demonstrates a commitment of faithfulness to the scriptural teachings concerning Jesus and a rich appreciation for the classical and conciliar traditions of Christology." —Preaching "Oden's project is anti-trendiness with a vengeance . . . refreshingly bold." —First Things "The most impressive systematic exercise in ecumenical ‘consensual thinking’ in print." —Religious Studies Review "A welcome addition to the pastor's bookshelf and a needed voice in the contemporary theological conversation." —Interpretation

Genres: Theology, Christianity

1614 pages, Hardcover

Published April 28, 2006

About the author

Thomas C. Oden was Henry Anson Buttz Professor of Theology and Ethics at Drew University in New Jersey from 1980 until his retirement in 2004. He remained faculty emeritus until his death. He was the general editor of the Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture and the Ancient Christian Doctrine series as well as the author of Classic Christianity, a revision of his three-volume systematic theology.

Reviews

[G Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oden is incredibly practical. This work is brilliantly laid out in form and methodology. This is concrete relational theology at its best. Though, in actual "conclusions" he and I would at some points differ significantly, he has an air of bold humility in what he presents. He draws from the rich and "full" body of Christ, from patristic and Eastern Orthodox, Medieval and Reformational down to Roman and Neo-Orthodox, but in the end (whilst maybe too Wesleyan for me) is squarely evangelical and conservative. This set is very doxological yet at the same time academically credible and rigorous, though not in a sterilized sense like one might find in Berkhof, et all. Nourishing and edifying. Worthy buying, time reading (and re-reading!) and it deserves a legitimate place on any believer's bookshelf. The set I have is white (HBs, from Prince/Hendrikson)