The Method of Christian Theology: A Basic Introduction

by Rhyne R. Putman

When handling the things of God, our method matters.
 
Everyone who thinks about God has a method for approaching the subject, whether they recognize it or not. A theological method addresses foundational questions such What is theology? How should we approach Scripture? What is the role of tradition, philosophy, and experience? How do we use theology in ministering to others? These questions are vital for anyone studying God and his Word—how one defines theology, sees its task, and uses its sources will shape one’s doctrine, for better or worse.
 
In The Method of Christian Theology , Rhyne Putman guides readers through the essential “first words” of systematic theology. Written for entry-level theology students, this book provides clear guidance for using theological sources, reasoning through difficult questions, and applying theological reflection in paper writing and preaching. By studying the foundations of theology, readers will be better equipped to serve God’s people in whatever ministry they are called to.

 

Genres: Theology, Christianity

336 pages, Paperback

Published May 15, 2021

Reviews

[Emma Mullins]

I think this book gave a great overview to what theology is, the different facets of it, as well as easy ways to apply. Although this was a textbook for class, I would enjoy reading it for fun!

[Allison Jones]

A basic but helpful summary of a Christian theological method and its necessity.

[Johnny Carau]

Not the easiest for me to read tbh. Idk maybe It wasn’t the right time and I’ll have to go back to it. Still some good stuff in it though.

[Scott Bielinski]

A nice and helpful introduction to theological method. Very easy to read. A lot of very practical helps at the end of the book. Excellent section (87-117) on the importance of the (right) heart and mind of the theologian.

Putman has written a great resource for the local church. His (very good!) conviction that theology and doctrine are for discipleship in the church shapes the book into a tool for pastors and laity alike.

"We proclaim doctrine in disciple-making relationships and in the teaching ministry of the local church. We long to see our neighbors behold the beauty of the gospel and its power play out in their lives. The labor of theology should result in the fruit of doctrine: faithful and true teachings derived from Scripture and used to grow God's people in knowledge, spiritual maturity, and obedience" (284).

[Peyton Mansfield]

A good introduction to what theology is and how to do it. The book was thorough without feeling overly-academic or repetitive. The heart of this book, though it mainly handles the methods and thought behind theology, is in using theology to bolster discipleship.

My only downside is that it's hard to point to one big purpose of the book I would recommend it for, outside of generally introducing theology. After reading, I can compare some philosophies of truth, rank our four sources for truth, and describe the need for the occasional doctrinal sermon, and so on -- really good and helpful stuff. But there wasn't an "Aha!" point that kept me reading, so much as my preexisting interest in the topic.

If you are interested in theology, and you want to be a good student, thinker, and minister from it, this is a good book to read.

[Clark Goble]

Intended as an introduction to Christian theology, this book provides an excellent overview of the ins and outs of theology. Putman covers a wide array of subjects that will help the Christian understand the practical application of theology and why it's important to the student of Scripture. This work will help the reader put religious experience in the right perspective in relation to Scriptural truth. Additionally, the reader will begin to associate right belief with right practice. I especially enjoyed Putman's treatment of expository preaching as well as sections dedicated to writing theological papers and sermons. Honestly, I wish this little book had existed when I was in school as it serves as a great primer for writing academic papers.

For a student of God's Word, I highly recommend this book. It is accessible for the average reader and will greatly enhance an honest study of Scripture.

[Jacob Ball]

I had to read this book for my theology class, and thought it was fairly well done. Much of the information located inside can be found if you take a basic hermeneutics or homiletics class. I did not find the method profound or innovative. However, it was very refreshing to hear how one’s point of view and one’s disposition can affect how we go about doing theology. That contribution alone was worth the book.

[Sam Brittain]

Excellent introduction to Theological Method.

A much needed work in a time where “theological answers” are sought with little attention to the process by which they are found. This work should be required reading for anyone studying systematic theology.

[Colton Strother]

A great introductory work on the task of theology. Putman's pastoral heart shines as introduces a complex topic to a lay audience. Recommended for undergraduate students or church discipleship settings.

[Nicholas Lewis]

Putman’s book is clear and concise; a helpful primer on the method of doing theology. The first half of the book is the strongest and his concise definitions and breakdowns make this an easy book to reference. I’d encourage any student of theology or ministry leader to read this one.

[Tucker Woodson]

If I was teaching an undergrad class on theological method, I would have this book be read immediately after Graham Cole’s “Faithful Theology.” A great introduction to prolegamena, deeply faithful to the core.

[Dr. A. Jacob W. Reinhardt]

An excellent work on the process of doing theology informed with heartfelt and worldview concerns and practical counsel to teachers.

[Payton M. Arnett]

I love this book! I highly recommend it as a practical and meaningful look at many aspects of theology.

[Clinton Crumley]

Great introduction to theology for College students or anyone new in the process of theological study and disciple making.

[John Paul Arceno]

https://johnpaularceno.com/2022/12/04... (5/5)

[kaylyn]

Pitman wrote with clarity and organization while delivering a strong message on Christian theology and how to partake in it. I enjoyed it!!