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Fruitful Theology: How the Life of the Mind Leads to the Life of the Soul
Why do the theologians rage?
Even a cursory scrolling of social media may lead you to the conclusion that you have to be angry to do theology. Sadly, our day is characterized by theological fighting—complete with harsh words, exaggeration, biting sarcasm, and the spirit of tearing down our brothers and sisters in Christ. But it does not have to be this way. In fact, it should not be this way.
In Fruitful Theology , Ronni Kurtz swims upstream to counter this prevailing problem. Instead of theology leading to anger, division, and discord, this book shows that the life of the mind can actually lead to the fruit of the Spirit. Fruitful Theology is for anyone
What if our speech and conduct were seasoned more with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control? How might the church’s unity be restored, and our witness be maximized, if we were characterized by the fruit of the Spirit instead of the spirit of our age? Theology may not be the most obvious candidate in helping reorient our life towards the fruit of the Spirit, but a right contemplation of God can indeed lead to right living for God, and that is exactly what this book hopes to explore.
Even a cursory scrolling of social media may lead you to the conclusion that you have to be angry to do theology. Sadly, our day is characterized by theological fighting—complete with harsh words, exaggeration, biting sarcasm, and the spirit of tearing down our brothers and sisters in Christ. But it does not have to be this way. In fact, it should not be this way.
In Fruitful Theology , Ronni Kurtz swims upstream to counter this prevailing problem. Instead of theology leading to anger, division, and discord, this book shows that the life of the mind can actually lead to the fruit of the Spirit. Fruitful Theology is for anyone
What if our speech and conduct were seasoned more with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control? How might the church’s unity be restored, and our witness be maximized, if we were characterized by the fruit of the Spirit instead of the spirit of our age? Theology may not be the most obvious candidate in helping reorient our life towards the fruit of the Spirit, but a right contemplation of God can indeed lead to right living for God, and that is exactly what this book hopes to explore.
192 pages, Paperback
Published August 30, 2022
28 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
Ronni Kurtz
6 books224 followersRonni Kurtz (PhD, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary) is an Assistant Professor of Theology at Cedarville University. He is the author of Light Unapproachable: Divine Incomprehensibility and the Task of Theology (IVP Academic, 2024), Fruitful Theology: How the Life of the Mind Leads to the Life of the Soul (B&H Publishers, 2022), No Shadow of Turning: Divine Immutability and the Economy of Redemption (Christian Focus Publishers, 2022) as well as a co-author of Proclaiming the Triune God: The Doctrine of the Trinity in the Life of the Church (B&H Academic, 2024).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
December 22, 2021
Honestly, when Ronni asked me to read and review his book, I was a bit surprised. I'd told him previously that, though I would read his book, I likely wouldn't rate it. I only rate books 5 stars if they're extra moving or life-changing, and I wasn't about to make an exception for him, even if he was a good friend. But still he asked me, and I'm quite sure it's because he is far more interested in an honest review than a good one. And I have to say, he's earned the 5 stars.
As I read on the virtue of patience, my mind called back to the conversations Ronni and I had as I wrestled with where I stood on classical theism. As I read of gentleness, I was transported to a conversation we had over coffee as I struggled with the longest and deepest season of doubt in my life. Far from mere sentimentalism, these memories actually demonstrate to me that Ronni practices what he preaches. That his reflections on how theology leads to fruit are not simply ideas he has; they're experiences he's lived. He can tell you about how God's gentleness leads us to be gentle because it's led him to be gentle. He can tell you about how to wrestle in patience with difficult theology because he's done it himself. The number one requirement for someone writing a book on the fruit of the Spirit is that he has to actually exhibit fruit. Regularly. And based on that qualification alone, I can tell you there's no one better to write this book than Ronni.
I know I've spent much time on Ronni instead of the actual content of the book. That was intentional, because I think it says something about the book itself: it feels far more like an author discipling and caring for you than it does a discourse on sanctification. If you're curious about the content of the book, it contains exactly what you'd think it would. You'll learn some foundational theology, follow some exegesis, and hear about what godliness actually looks like practically. More than once my heart was stirred to know God more, and more than once I was confronted by the beauty and splendor of the gospel. I think you'll find that's true for you too if you read it. It's well worth your time.
As I read on the virtue of patience, my mind called back to the conversations Ronni and I had as I wrestled with where I stood on classical theism. As I read of gentleness, I was transported to a conversation we had over coffee as I struggled with the longest and deepest season of doubt in my life. Far from mere sentimentalism, these memories actually demonstrate to me that Ronni practices what he preaches. That his reflections on how theology leads to fruit are not simply ideas he has; they're experiences he's lived. He can tell you about how God's gentleness leads us to be gentle because it's led him to be gentle. He can tell you about how to wrestle in patience with difficult theology because he's done it himself. The number one requirement for someone writing a book on the fruit of the Spirit is that he has to actually exhibit fruit. Regularly. And based on that qualification alone, I can tell you there's no one better to write this book than Ronni.
I know I've spent much time on Ronni instead of the actual content of the book. That was intentional, because I think it says something about the book itself: it feels far more like an author discipling and caring for you than it does a discourse on sanctification. If you're curious about the content of the book, it contains exactly what you'd think it would. You'll learn some foundational theology, follow some exegesis, and hear about what godliness actually looks like practically. More than once my heart was stirred to know God more, and more than once I was confronted by the beauty and splendor of the gospel. I think you'll find that's true for you too if you read it. It's well worth your time.
December 13, 2021
At first I considered describing Fruitful Theology as the friendly introductory pathway to theology alongside the likes of Mere Christianity. However, after continuing to read I realized the repetitive theme in each chapter were Ronni Kurtz calls the reader beyond “mere” fruits of the spirit and into something deeper and greater. Fruitful Theology is an exhortation to the weary but aspiring theologian and the young but eager believer who find themselves discouraged by the toxicity of differing theological tribes. Looking past the noisy gongs of hot-take Instagram users and controversial public theologians, Dr. Kurtz directs the reader to the contemplation of God and the following fruit of the Spirit described in Galatians 5.
Reorienting the reader to Anselm’s focus upon the faith that seeks understanding, Dr. Kurtz advocates for a a deeper fruit of action that should be the true product of healthy knowledge of the Triune God. Pastoral in nature yet referencing the “academic” theologians of old, Fruitful Theology balances a high view of the great theological tradition with accommodating language which welcomes anyone to approach just as they are.
I believe that Fruitful Theology is one of the best introductions to the great “well of joy” available in theological study. It has already earned itself a position within my discipleship resources alongside the works of Dane Ortlund and Matthew Barrett for a helpful gateway into healthy Christian theology which produces the fruit of doxology.
“May our theology lead to” love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.
(Thank you to Ronni Kurtz for the absolute privilege of reading and proofing a pre-publication version of this book.)
Reorienting the reader to Anselm’s focus upon the faith that seeks understanding, Dr. Kurtz advocates for a a deeper fruit of action that should be the true product of healthy knowledge of the Triune God. Pastoral in nature yet referencing the “academic” theologians of old, Fruitful Theology balances a high view of the great theological tradition with accommodating language which welcomes anyone to approach just as they are.
I believe that Fruitful Theology is one of the best introductions to the great “well of joy” available in theological study. It has already earned itself a position within my discipleship resources alongside the works of Dane Ortlund and Matthew Barrett for a helpful gateway into healthy Christian theology which produces the fruit of doxology.
“May our theology lead to” love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.
(Thank you to Ronni Kurtz for the absolute privilege of reading and proofing a pre-publication version of this book.)
January 6, 2024
Fruitful!
May 9, 2025
I had the privilege of sitting under Ronnie’s preaching when he was my pastor and his teaching when he was my professor, and it was such a joy to read this book because it’s a perfect reflection of both his pastoral spirit and theological mind. This book is a great resource for everyday Christians who want to connect the deep truths of who God is with the practical realities of life. It’s accessible, thoughtful, and rooted in Scripture—and I think it will serve the church well.
June 21, 2022
Let me tell you why I LOVE this book by my dear friend Dr. Ronni Kurtz.
First—It is deeply and timelessly Christian:
While there are appropriate illustrations that date the book, they are not faddish. Ronni avoids the typical trade level temptation of pandering to the audience with hot takes and overly casual idioms. A Puritan could (and would) read this book, understand none of the cultural references, and still say amen.
Second—It is honest and humble:
Ronni is not presumptuous in this book. His writing embodies another friend’s wonderful phrase: it communicates that he “doesn’t despise his neediness.” I can hear and agree with the theme that rings throughout (sometimes explicit sometimes implicit): an amazement that *I* am a Christian. That God could be gracious to *me.* that he would use *me!*
On a personal note, Ronni renders me a great gift by writing in this way: he has given me—and others like me and Ronni and our friends—permission to not be ok. He has written in such a way that he portrays himself first and foremost as a recipient of the grace he invites others to, and “the foremost” of those who need it. He has written in such a way that he could reach out to anyone of his friends, say “I’m not ok. I’m falling apart. I need prayer, I need counsel, I need rest, I need help” and not be a hypocrite. He wouldn’t need to detract a word from this book. I can’t tell you what a gift that is to me as a friend who shares his hyperactive zeal for writing and ministry. For my own part, this zeal can often translate into a hesitancy to slow down or a hesitancy to be transparent out of a fear of forfeiting the opportunity to “do more.” This book can set a helpful precedent for young scholars and theologians.
Third—It is serious without being stuffy, profound without being belittling:
Ronni avoids the temptation of making the reading easy BY making the content frivolous. It’s very serious, but seriously joyful. I’m really convinced by his arguments, and I’m happier for it. It does what it’s supposed to do: it winsomely appeals to a pop-level audience to come and drink deeply from the well of theology for joy and spiritual fruitfulness.
This is a great book for pastors who are in need of setting themselves ablaze with theology again. It can be particularly useful for pastors to put in the hands of members who may or may not see the immediate relevance theology has on their lives. It’s also a great book for theologians who need a good model of distilling the treasures of their discipline for a lay audience without losing any of its luster.
First—It is deeply and timelessly Christian:
While there are appropriate illustrations that date the book, they are not faddish. Ronni avoids the typical trade level temptation of pandering to the audience with hot takes and overly casual idioms. A Puritan could (and would) read this book, understand none of the cultural references, and still say amen.
Second—It is honest and humble:
Ronni is not presumptuous in this book. His writing embodies another friend’s wonderful phrase: it communicates that he “doesn’t despise his neediness.” I can hear and agree with the theme that rings throughout (sometimes explicit sometimes implicit): an amazement that *I* am a Christian. That God could be gracious to *me.* that he would use *me!*
On a personal note, Ronni renders me a great gift by writing in this way: he has given me—and others like me and Ronni and our friends—permission to not be ok. He has written in such a way that he portrays himself first and foremost as a recipient of the grace he invites others to, and “the foremost” of those who need it. He has written in such a way that he could reach out to anyone of his friends, say “I’m not ok. I’m falling apart. I need prayer, I need counsel, I need rest, I need help” and not be a hypocrite. He wouldn’t need to detract a word from this book. I can’t tell you what a gift that is to me as a friend who shares his hyperactive zeal for writing and ministry. For my own part, this zeal can often translate into a hesitancy to slow down or a hesitancy to be transparent out of a fear of forfeiting the opportunity to “do more.” This book can set a helpful precedent for young scholars and theologians.
Third—It is serious without being stuffy, profound without being belittling:
Ronni avoids the temptation of making the reading easy BY making the content frivolous. It’s very serious, but seriously joyful. I’m really convinced by his arguments, and I’m happier for it. It does what it’s supposed to do: it winsomely appeals to a pop-level audience to come and drink deeply from the well of theology for joy and spiritual fruitfulness.
This is a great book for pastors who are in need of setting themselves ablaze with theology again. It can be particularly useful for pastors to put in the hands of members who may or may not see the immediate relevance theology has on their lives. It’s also a great book for theologians who need a good model of distilling the treasures of their discipline for a lay audience without losing any of its luster.
October 25, 2022
This book ought to be required reading in a Bible college's introduction class that freshman have to take.
Ronni has written an incredibly readable work that encourages the reader towards a difficult topic not by force or shame, but by a demonstration of love. While having never taken a class with Professor Kurtz I have heard the testimony of students who speak highly of his love for theology and desire for his students to love it as well. This book carries the same spirit I've heard about. He comes across as a friend who has tasted and seen something good and wants to bring the reader along to share in the goodness of Theology that leads to bearing fruit in the life of the believer.
This book would serve both new students very well in preparing them to begin their studies in theology and lay christians who are scared of the words "theology" or "doctrine." He uses a handful of specific doctrines to demonstrate how they connect to the fruit of the Spirit. In doing this the book both serves as a basic introduction to some theological concepts while being an instruction to worshipful study of theology that leads to obedience.
The reason I dropped a star is that the author tries to tackle the issue of divisiveness in theological discourse in our day and simply doesn't have the room or desire (I think) to deal with it properly. In the first chapter he points out ways that theology can be weaponized and used improperly, and throughout the book notes people such as "social media theologians" or others that are using it improperly. But the complexities of how theology IS divisive and how Christians do need to warn and discern and defend the sheep was not the aim of the author nor was it accomplished. I simply think the book could have stayed more focused on the positive aspects of the point, because some of sweeping statements made about theological debate simply could not be dealt with in proper detail in a work like this.
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
All opinions are my own.
Ronni has written an incredibly readable work that encourages the reader towards a difficult topic not by force or shame, but by a demonstration of love. While having never taken a class with Professor Kurtz I have heard the testimony of students who speak highly of his love for theology and desire for his students to love it as well. This book carries the same spirit I've heard about. He comes across as a friend who has tasted and seen something good and wants to bring the reader along to share in the goodness of Theology that leads to bearing fruit in the life of the believer.
This book would serve both new students very well in preparing them to begin their studies in theology and lay christians who are scared of the words "theology" or "doctrine." He uses a handful of specific doctrines to demonstrate how they connect to the fruit of the Spirit. In doing this the book both serves as a basic introduction to some theological concepts while being an instruction to worshipful study of theology that leads to obedience.
The reason I dropped a star is that the author tries to tackle the issue of divisiveness in theological discourse in our day and simply doesn't have the room or desire (I think) to deal with it properly. In the first chapter he points out ways that theology can be weaponized and used improperly, and throughout the book notes people such as "social media theologians" or others that are using it improperly. But the complexities of how theology IS divisive and how Christians do need to warn and discern and defend the sheep was not the aim of the author nor was it accomplished. I simply think the book could have stayed more focused on the positive aspects of the point, because some of sweeping statements made about theological debate simply could not be dealt with in proper detail in a work like this.
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
All opinions are my own.
August 3, 2022
"The heart cannot love what the mind does not know" Jen Wilkin
This is one among my favourite quotes, reminding me of the immense value of growing in knowledge of the Lord - how can I love what I don't believe or trust? And when the greatest commandment is to love the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength...I can't help but long to know Him more.
There are, however, dangers of knowledge - particularly in the church - as theology can give rise to divisiveness and judgemental attitudes. One person's passion becomes all encompassing and you can't figure out why other's don't see it the way you do.
Responding to this conundrum usually rises with emotion and impacts how we interact with, and treat, others. It's with this in mind Ronni Kurtz writes Fruitful Theology: How the Life of the Mind Leads to the Life of the Soul.
Many have seen devastating impact of divisiveness in the church, so he helps us rewind to see, once again, the joy and benefit of growing in our knowledge of God but specifically how that growth is intended to influence our display of the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). He takes a chapter for each fruit, to explore how it's shaped by theology and how we live it out.
"As we set out on this adventure of contemplating God and all things in relation to God, we will be transformed."
On Love. God doesn't have love, he is love. This means when we enter his presence, we're brought into the very presence of love! His gracious love seeps into us enabling our own hearts to extend that love to others.
On Joy. We find fullness of joy in the presence of God because as we gaze on Him we're confronted with the good, the beautiful and the true; we consider what we deserve and what we get in Christ; our confusion turns to clarity; and we're practicing deep dependence on Him.
On Peace. "We have been infected with disunity, and the sickness has found its way into the church." The gospel points us to peace with God, our ministry as peacemakers, and our peace with each other in unity.
On Patience. "Theological wisdom is not microwavable. To arrive at a place of wisdom in the theological life, you will need wrestling, contemplation, prayer, and patience." We're reminded how God's patience toward us leads us to have patience with others.
On Kindness. Considering God's kindness toward us and the depravity of our own hearts,"we are aware enough of sin's impact on us to know we are just a couple of bad decisions away from displaying the same unkindness." May we see others as those created in the image of God and deserving of our kindness.
On Goodness. "Not only does the Bible give us a grand vision for a goodness of being, but it also gives us a grand vision for a goodness of doing." Our contemplation of God's goodness bids us to pursue our neighbor's good in our speech, with our time, our pursuit of justice, and with the gospel.
On Faithfulness. "Christian theology aids us on our journey toward the spiritual fruit of faithfulness by reminding us of the faithfulness of God and reinforcing our own faithfulness." Our hearts will not naturally become faithful, it requires discipline.
On Gentleness. Most required in how we navigate conflicts, as we display gentleness of tongue and of temper.
On Self-Control. "By our self-control, we possess the wisdom to choose that which will bring life to ourselves and glory to our God instead of that which will bring destruction to ourselves and glory to the prince of darkness." What we give space to in our minds will directly impact our heart and our hands. May we ever be mindful of this real estate and attend to what we think about.
Over the years as a healthcare professional, whether here in Canada or in Africa, I've seen over and over that knowledge does not necessarily lead to a change in behaviour. Whether it's eating a lot of carbs despite having diabetes, or not using a mosquito net properly because of animistic beliefs.
Now, when I consider this in light of my own reading and growing in faith, the words in these pages were really convicting as I asked myself how what I believe and how the truths I'm learning are (or aren't) leading to changes in my character.
It's humbling to be sure.
As we abide in Christ, our knowledge grows deeper and, by His grace, we will be transformed more and more into His likeness. If the fruit of our character doesn't line up with His, it's time to step back and consider whether we know the One we're following. Then, fix our eyes on His Word to contemplate who He is.
This is on my favourites list! I'd recommend this for anyone who wants to explore how our knowledge of God intersects with how we live.
Quick Stats
# of pages: 192 pages
Level of Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
My Rating: 5 stars!
*A big thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
This is one among my favourite quotes, reminding me of the immense value of growing in knowledge of the Lord - how can I love what I don't believe or trust? And when the greatest commandment is to love the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength...I can't help but long to know Him more.
There are, however, dangers of knowledge - particularly in the church - as theology can give rise to divisiveness and judgemental attitudes. One person's passion becomes all encompassing and you can't figure out why other's don't see it the way you do.
Responding to this conundrum usually rises with emotion and impacts how we interact with, and treat, others. It's with this in mind Ronni Kurtz writes Fruitful Theology: How the Life of the Mind Leads to the Life of the Soul.
Many have seen devastating impact of divisiveness in the church, so he helps us rewind to see, once again, the joy and benefit of growing in our knowledge of God but specifically how that growth is intended to influence our display of the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). He takes a chapter for each fruit, to explore how it's shaped by theology and how we live it out.
"As we set out on this adventure of contemplating God and all things in relation to God, we will be transformed."
On Love. God doesn't have love, he is love. This means when we enter his presence, we're brought into the very presence of love! His gracious love seeps into us enabling our own hearts to extend that love to others.
On Joy. We find fullness of joy in the presence of God because as we gaze on Him we're confronted with the good, the beautiful and the true; we consider what we deserve and what we get in Christ; our confusion turns to clarity; and we're practicing deep dependence on Him.
On Peace. "We have been infected with disunity, and the sickness has found its way into the church." The gospel points us to peace with God, our ministry as peacemakers, and our peace with each other in unity.
On Patience. "Theological wisdom is not microwavable. To arrive at a place of wisdom in the theological life, you will need wrestling, contemplation, prayer, and patience." We're reminded how God's patience toward us leads us to have patience with others.
On Kindness. Considering God's kindness toward us and the depravity of our own hearts,"we are aware enough of sin's impact on us to know we are just a couple of bad decisions away from displaying the same unkindness." May we see others as those created in the image of God and deserving of our kindness.
On Goodness. "Not only does the Bible give us a grand vision for a goodness of being, but it also gives us a grand vision for a goodness of doing." Our contemplation of God's goodness bids us to pursue our neighbor's good in our speech, with our time, our pursuit of justice, and with the gospel.
On Faithfulness. "Christian theology aids us on our journey toward the spiritual fruit of faithfulness by reminding us of the faithfulness of God and reinforcing our own faithfulness." Our hearts will not naturally become faithful, it requires discipline.
On Gentleness. Most required in how we navigate conflicts, as we display gentleness of tongue and of temper.
On Self-Control. "By our self-control, we possess the wisdom to choose that which will bring life to ourselves and glory to our God instead of that which will bring destruction to ourselves and glory to the prince of darkness." What we give space to in our minds will directly impact our heart and our hands. May we ever be mindful of this real estate and attend to what we think about.
Over the years as a healthcare professional, whether here in Canada or in Africa, I've seen over and over that knowledge does not necessarily lead to a change in behaviour. Whether it's eating a lot of carbs despite having diabetes, or not using a mosquito net properly because of animistic beliefs.
Now, when I consider this in light of my own reading and growing in faith, the words in these pages were really convicting as I asked myself how what I believe and how the truths I'm learning are (or aren't) leading to changes in my character.
It's humbling to be sure.
As we abide in Christ, our knowledge grows deeper and, by His grace, we will be transformed more and more into His likeness. If the fruit of our character doesn't line up with His, it's time to step back and consider whether we know the One we're following. Then, fix our eyes on His Word to contemplate who He is.
This is on my favourites list! I'd recommend this for anyone who wants to explore how our knowledge of God intersects with how we live.
Quick Stats
# of pages: 192 pages
Level of Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
My Rating: 5 stars!
*A big thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
February 12, 2025
Excellent book! It was really encouraging reading through theological doctrine paired with the fruit of the spirit. The chapter about love and the divine simplicity of God was especially sweet to meditate on! The final chapter ended with scripture emphasis on 2 Corinthians 3:18 which I thought was very fitting as we behold God by our theology: “And we all, with unveiled faces, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed in the same image from one degree of glory to another”.
January 11, 2023
reading this book brought me back to the sweet days spent in ronni’s classroom while he taught at Spurgeon College. this book will enchant you with the goodness, beauty, and truth found in studying and beholding God. it is an artful and accessible summation of life-giving and spirit-filled theology.
August 9, 2023
Helpful to work through a book that is desiring to connect mind and theology with living rightly before the very God you should desire to know. Conclusion is packed with concise summary statements that I think will serve me as prayers as long as I seek to know God better and worship Him in life.
October 20, 2022
In Fruitful Theology, Ronni Kurtz reminds us that we are all theologians, regardless of what or how much we believe about God. Each chapter outlines the fruit of the Spirit in relation to theology in a moving way. The main premise of the book is that the study and “result of theology done well should be love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22).”
Kurtz says, “when Christians set their minds toward the deep things of God in the task of theology, we set our gaze on none other than the triune God.” Theology is meant to lead us to worship, and “as we set out on this adventure of contemplating God and all things in relation to God, we will be transformed.”
For me, Fruitful Theology truly accomplishes the author’s desired outcome in moving my own theological journey “a few steps closer” (if not many steps closer!) toward the fruit of the Spirit.
If there is one book I’ve read recently on theology that has fueled the longings of my heart to know God, it is this one. Far too often, the truths about God have been used as a weapon in unloving and ungracious ways. Each chapter both reminded me and opened up a greater depth in how the fruit of the Spirit should permeate our lives in regard to theology and how we love God and people. As the author states, “A mind full of truth should lead to a heart full of love and hands full of care.”
The chapter concerning self-control was especially insightful, helpful, and eye-opening, presenting the topic in a way I have never before heard.
I was inspired to seek to live out the fruit of the Spirit toward God and others, studying each more deeply to inspire me further in this endeavor. This book is a treasure chest full of practical help and truth, thoroughly written and presented to the reader.
I received a review copy of this book for free from Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
Kurtz says, “when Christians set their minds toward the deep things of God in the task of theology, we set our gaze on none other than the triune God.” Theology is meant to lead us to worship, and “as we set out on this adventure of contemplating God and all things in relation to God, we will be transformed.”
For me, Fruitful Theology truly accomplishes the author’s desired outcome in moving my own theological journey “a few steps closer” (if not many steps closer!) toward the fruit of the Spirit.
If there is one book I’ve read recently on theology that has fueled the longings of my heart to know God, it is this one. Far too often, the truths about God have been used as a weapon in unloving and ungracious ways. Each chapter both reminded me and opened up a greater depth in how the fruit of the Spirit should permeate our lives in regard to theology and how we love God and people. As the author states, “A mind full of truth should lead to a heart full of love and hands full of care.”
The chapter concerning self-control was especially insightful, helpful, and eye-opening, presenting the topic in a way I have never before heard.
I was inspired to seek to live out the fruit of the Spirit toward God and others, studying each more deeply to inspire me further in this endeavor. This book is a treasure chest full of practical help and truth, thoroughly written and presented to the reader.
I received a review copy of this book for free from Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
February 6, 2023
Great read that enforces the need for theology for all believers in order for spiritual growth in Christ. You can't love the God you do not know and you can't walk in the ways of a God you do not love. He accomplishes his goal of communicating how the life of the mind leads to the life of the soul. Recommend.
There are typos and a relatively minor error (stating Jesus was born in "Galilee of Nazareth", p. 123) that I hope will be fixed in a second edition
There are typos and a relatively minor error (stating Jesus was born in "Galilee of Nazareth", p. 123) that I hope will be fixed in a second edition
July 6, 2024
For now I will return this book to it place on the shelf. But, it will not sit there long this book will be among my favorites to read with others as we contemplate how our theology should inform our everyday walk.
December 12, 2024
Excellent.
As we do theology, we should "Contemplate the good, the true, and the beautiful in Christ, and in doing so be transformed by the renewing of your mind by beholding Christ from one degree of glory to another." (146)
As we do theology, we should "Contemplate the good, the true, and the beautiful in Christ, and in doing so be transformed by the renewing of your mind by beholding Christ from one degree of glory to another." (146)
July 17, 2024
Fantastic!
January 9, 2023
This is a good book and a joy to briefly review here.
I figured it would be a good one since Kurtz shares in his Acknowledgements who he was reading during the summer he authored it (Augustine, Gregory, and Dostoevsky, among others), but it still proved to impress with its timeliness, sincerity, and perspicuity. Kurtz’s writing style comes across as simple yet careful, communicating dense theological doctrines with the accessibility only achieved by well-seasoned students of God and all things in relation to God. It is also immediately apparent that he has spent time at the pulpit to the benefit of his readers as we are presented with sober-minded teaching on the gospel within each chapter as is characteristic of any good sermon.
Kurtz heeds his own teaching by being gentle with his exhortation: to have his readers consider again what the chief end of theology is, and to reflect on whether the outworking of one’s theology looks akin to the works of the flesh or is in step with the Spirit. It is a profitable reminder given today’s theological climate. Since the natural end of theology ought to bear fruit, it is regrettable that this is not often seen in high-visibility theological discourse. The success of Kurtz’s project comes from his fundamental understanding that theology actually yields fruit by the sanctifying grace of the Spirit. Theology alone is not sufficient for this, but by grace the contemplative life will bring forth a rich harvest. In other words, and in imitation of Kurtz’s leitmotif, theological wisdom will cultivate spiritual fruit.
In all, I enjoyed the clarity and earnest spirit of Kurtz’s work, and I look forward to reading more from him in the future. And as an added benefit, I now have an approachable book to share when asked why I love studying theology, and one I ought to return to when my contemplative life remains in thought and not in deed.
I figured it would be a good one since Kurtz shares in his Acknowledgements who he was reading during the summer he authored it (Augustine, Gregory, and Dostoevsky, among others), but it still proved to impress with its timeliness, sincerity, and perspicuity. Kurtz’s writing style comes across as simple yet careful, communicating dense theological doctrines with the accessibility only achieved by well-seasoned students of God and all things in relation to God. It is also immediately apparent that he has spent time at the pulpit to the benefit of his readers as we are presented with sober-minded teaching on the gospel within each chapter as is characteristic of any good sermon.
Kurtz heeds his own teaching by being gentle with his exhortation: to have his readers consider again what the chief end of theology is, and to reflect on whether the outworking of one’s theology looks akin to the works of the flesh or is in step with the Spirit. It is a profitable reminder given today’s theological climate. Since the natural end of theology ought to bear fruit, it is regrettable that this is not often seen in high-visibility theological discourse. The success of Kurtz’s project comes from his fundamental understanding that theology actually yields fruit by the sanctifying grace of the Spirit. Theology alone is not sufficient for this, but by grace the contemplative life will bring forth a rich harvest. In other words, and in imitation of Kurtz’s leitmotif, theological wisdom will cultivate spiritual fruit.
In all, I enjoyed the clarity and earnest spirit of Kurtz’s work, and I look forward to reading more from him in the future. And as an added benefit, I now have an approachable book to share when asked why I love studying theology, and one I ought to return to when my contemplative life remains in thought and not in deed.
March 15, 2025
“May the triune God captivate the mind’s eye; may your contemplation of His glory and grace bear fruit until your faith is sight.”
John 4:23 Inseparable: spirit and truth. They meet perfectly in Jesus Christ.
Real holiness looks like Jesus. And if we keep our eye on Jesus, we will see rather straight away that sound doctrine and the fruit of the spirit are not mutually exclusive. Rather, the former is meant to fuel the latter and the latter is meant to adorn the former.
Sound doctrine gives Christ like character its proper shape, its back bone and Christlike character is how we show our sound doctrine. It isn’t just empty ideology. It isn’t just for religious show.
The study of creation is the study of God’s handiwork. The study of the church is the study of God’s people. The study of Christian salvation is the study of God’s redemption. God is the primary subject of Christian theology and we put Him before all, placing all else in its rightful place, subjected to Him.
When Christians set their minds toward the deep things of God in the task of theology, we set our gaze on none other than the triune God.
The goal of theology is a clearer vision of who God is and what He is doing in the world.
When we do theology properly, we should not come out the same person. As confusion about God gives way to clarity and we are brought into the truth of the Christian faith, we cannot help but be molded and shaped by it.
Rev 1:17 The presence of the Lord changes us.
A theological life is a life of adventure. The adventure is the ever increasing contemplation and comprehension of this beautiful, good, and true God.
The result of theology done well should be love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Gal 5:22)
Discord arises as theology is used to break unity with those fellow image bearers with whom we ought to be marching arm in arm toward the promised land. Maybe you’ve seen theology weaponized as an instrument of pride…the search for truth is but a grasp for self-importance.
Does our theology seek the applause of our neighbors, or the good of our neighbors?
Augustine “For this is the fulness of our joy, which there is nothing greater: to enjoy God, the trinity, in whose image we have been made.”
Jen Wilkins “The heart cannot love what the mind does not know.”
What you consistently contemplate, you will grow to consistently appreciate.
Thomas Aquinas “The whole of our life bears fruit and comes to achievement in the knowledge of the trinity.”
Does the way you think about theology, the way you do theology, and the way you talk about theology, typically lead to love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control? Or does the way you think about theology, the way you do theology, and the way you talk about theology typically lead to moral impurity, idolatry, hatred, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissention, factions, envy?
Either we will obey and take every thought captive or our thoughts will take us captive.
The Christian who bends his or her thoughts toward the fruit of the spirit is the Christian who lives in freedom, not slavery.
Fruit of the spirit, not “fruits” of the spirit: that is to say, there is no such world in which we are called to cultivate joy and peace but we may forsake self-control for example. A Christian theology that leads to goodness but not gentleness is incomplete. It is not enough for us to bend our thought life toward a handful of the fruit of the spirit; we must go after them all. When we bring all of these virtues together, we get a good sampling of Christian wisdom.
Theology done well can drive the virtues that make up the fruit of the spirit deep in our soul, such that we become Christians marked by wisdom and stability.
The life of the mind is a vital arena in the Christian life…
May the goal of our theology be the glory of God and the good of others, instead of attention and applause.
Examine points of doctrine, biblical passages, and theological wisdom, all with an eye toward the cultivation of spiritual fruit.
1. God is love
2. If theology is the study of God and all things in relation to God, theology done well should always appoint our attention at God and bring us into the presence of God.
3. Therefore, theology done well brings us into the presence of love, as God is love.
All you need to disdain your neighbor is internet access.
Philippians 4:7 / Isaiah 26:3 There is a direct connection between contemplating God and trusting God.
As those who have been gripped by the goodness of God, we pour ourselves out for the good of those around us.
•Pursue our neighbors good with our speech. (Eph 4:29) In your words, can you find life? In your words, can others find the breadcrumbs of the bread of life?
•Pursue our neighbors good with our time and possessions. (Luke 3:11) My possessions and my time are not my own and can be powerful instruments of good.
•Pursue our neighbors good by pursuing justice. Keep our minds on what is actually good. (Isaiah 5:20, Amos 5:24, Deut 10:17-19)
•Pursue our neighbors good with the gospel. (Ps 25:7)
Christopher Holms “The experience of God’s goodness evokes spiritual gladness.”
Our minds are skilled at gravitating towards that which will not aid our pursuit of faithfulness. Our minds need training to remember that God is good in Himself, and good in His actions toward us. Your heart will not drift toward faithfulness; it will take discipline to set your mind’s eye on God’s glory…
Packer: The Christmas spirit does not shine out in the Christian snob. For the Christmas spirit is the spirit of those who, like their master, live their whole lives on the principle of making themselves poor, spending and being spent, to enrich their fellow men, giving time, trouble, care, and concern, to do good to others and not just their own friends, in whatever way there seems need.
Philippians 2:3-11 Emptied, humbled, death. Christ the supreme example.
It takes something as grand as the news that “Jesus Christ, the righteous, took on flesh, that we may be made right with God” to reinforce our faithfulness over lifetimes.
Drawn toward leaders who are calm: anchored soul, gentleness of temper. (Pr 16:32, 1 Tim 3:3)
A gentle spirit is a sign of much power. To have a gentle spirit shows that a person has the power to master much of the inner chaos that weaker individuals let spill out onto others. It takes power not to revile in turn when reviled. Or to threaten in return, when suffering. This is the power Christ demonstrated on His way to the cross. (1 Peter 2:23)
When we dive into self-indulgence, we show that we do not trust God’s providential care and think, rather, that we must fend for ourselves.
In the scriptures, self-control is tied closely with having wisdom. It is wise for us to develop the ability to be in control of ourselves, so that when we are presented options that appeal to our desires and appetites, we can choose those which lead to life, and not death.
Prov 25:28 Self-control acts as a barrier to defend our body and soul from that which will harm us and others.
A life characterized by self-control, while hard to maintain, is a life characterized by stability and wisdom. Moreover, a life characterized by wise self-control, under the care of divine providence, leads to real, lasting joy. (Ps 16:5-6, 11)
While self-indulgence brings a fleeting joy that comes and goes in a second, wise self-control brings about an eternal joy that will last forevermore.
Jesus Christ is the true living water; those who drink from Him will never be thirsty again. Self-indulgence will give you a taste of pleasure, which vanishes. It needs to be replenished, over and over. In this way, self-indulgence makes you a slave for the next taste.
Philippians 4:8 “Be transformed by beholding.”
You possess something of immense value: your attention. The world wants it, and it will throw much at you to get it. There are folks who’s primary job is to continually maintain and upgrade sophisticated algorithms to guarantee that your attention will stay fixed on your phone.
Neil Postman in “Amusing ourselves to death”: We are a people in danger of simply becoming an audience. “The world is a stage where your attention and gaze are the commodity.”
DWELL: Philippians 4:8
Whatever we give our attention to, will form us as people.
If our minds stay on the ever changing and increasingly shallow events of our culture, we will continue to decline in wisdom and reasonableness, as followers of Christ. However, if we let Paul’s command sink into our lives and have the self-control to look up and out of the dizzying array of distractions surrounding us, giving instead a hard, sustained look at what is good, true, and beautiful, we may be transformed into wise and stable men and women.
There is a clear connection between our thought life and our actions.
BE TRANSFORMED. Rom 12:2
A mind full of truth should lead to a heart full of love and hands full of care.
2 Cor 3:18 When we behold Him, we begin to look like Him as we are transformed from one degree of glory to another.
In all of our thinking about God, we have a choice. We can be characterized by the works of the flesh, so that theology leads us to devour one another. Or, we can insist that casting our intellectual gaze on God will instead be marked by the fruit of the spirit and will not lead to devouring one another, but to bearing one another’s burdens. This is the way forward for Christian theology.
➡️AUDIO BOOK
John 4:23 Inseparable: spirit and truth. They meet perfectly in Jesus Christ.
Real holiness looks like Jesus. And if we keep our eye on Jesus, we will see rather straight away that sound doctrine and the fruit of the spirit are not mutually exclusive. Rather, the former is meant to fuel the latter and the latter is meant to adorn the former.
Sound doctrine gives Christ like character its proper shape, its back bone and Christlike character is how we show our sound doctrine. It isn’t just empty ideology. It isn’t just for religious show.
The study of creation is the study of God’s handiwork. The study of the church is the study of God’s people. The study of Christian salvation is the study of God’s redemption. God is the primary subject of Christian theology and we put Him before all, placing all else in its rightful place, subjected to Him.
When Christians set their minds toward the deep things of God in the task of theology, we set our gaze on none other than the triune God.
The goal of theology is a clearer vision of who God is and what He is doing in the world.
When we do theology properly, we should not come out the same person. As confusion about God gives way to clarity and we are brought into the truth of the Christian faith, we cannot help but be molded and shaped by it.
Rev 1:17 The presence of the Lord changes us.
A theological life is a life of adventure. The adventure is the ever increasing contemplation and comprehension of this beautiful, good, and true God.
The result of theology done well should be love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Gal 5:22)
Discord arises as theology is used to break unity with those fellow image bearers with whom we ought to be marching arm in arm toward the promised land. Maybe you’ve seen theology weaponized as an instrument of pride…the search for truth is but a grasp for self-importance.
Does our theology seek the applause of our neighbors, or the good of our neighbors?
Augustine “For this is the fulness of our joy, which there is nothing greater: to enjoy God, the trinity, in whose image we have been made.”
Jen Wilkins “The heart cannot love what the mind does not know.”
What you consistently contemplate, you will grow to consistently appreciate.
Thomas Aquinas “The whole of our life bears fruit and comes to achievement in the knowledge of the trinity.”
Does the way you think about theology, the way you do theology, and the way you talk about theology, typically lead to love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control? Or does the way you think about theology, the way you do theology, and the way you talk about theology typically lead to moral impurity, idolatry, hatred, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissention, factions, envy?
Either we will obey and take every thought captive or our thoughts will take us captive.
The Christian who bends his or her thoughts toward the fruit of the spirit is the Christian who lives in freedom, not slavery.
Fruit of the spirit, not “fruits” of the spirit: that is to say, there is no such world in which we are called to cultivate joy and peace but we may forsake self-control for example. A Christian theology that leads to goodness but not gentleness is incomplete. It is not enough for us to bend our thought life toward a handful of the fruit of the spirit; we must go after them all. When we bring all of these virtues together, we get a good sampling of Christian wisdom.
Theology done well can drive the virtues that make up the fruit of the spirit deep in our soul, such that we become Christians marked by wisdom and stability.
The life of the mind is a vital arena in the Christian life…
May the goal of our theology be the glory of God and the good of others, instead of attention and applause.
Examine points of doctrine, biblical passages, and theological wisdom, all with an eye toward the cultivation of spiritual fruit.
1. God is love
2. If theology is the study of God and all things in relation to God, theology done well should always appoint our attention at God and bring us into the presence of God.
3. Therefore, theology done well brings us into the presence of love, as God is love.
All you need to disdain your neighbor is internet access.
Philippians 4:7 / Isaiah 26:3 There is a direct connection between contemplating God and trusting God.
As those who have been gripped by the goodness of God, we pour ourselves out for the good of those around us.
•Pursue our neighbors good with our speech. (Eph 4:29) In your words, can you find life? In your words, can others find the breadcrumbs of the bread of life?
•Pursue our neighbors good with our time and possessions. (Luke 3:11) My possessions and my time are not my own and can be powerful instruments of good.
•Pursue our neighbors good by pursuing justice. Keep our minds on what is actually good. (Isaiah 5:20, Amos 5:24, Deut 10:17-19)
•Pursue our neighbors good with the gospel. (Ps 25:7)
Christopher Holms “The experience of God’s goodness evokes spiritual gladness.”
Our minds are skilled at gravitating towards that which will not aid our pursuit of faithfulness. Our minds need training to remember that God is good in Himself, and good in His actions toward us. Your heart will not drift toward faithfulness; it will take discipline to set your mind’s eye on God’s glory…
Packer: The Christmas spirit does not shine out in the Christian snob. For the Christmas spirit is the spirit of those who, like their master, live their whole lives on the principle of making themselves poor, spending and being spent, to enrich their fellow men, giving time, trouble, care, and concern, to do good to others and not just their own friends, in whatever way there seems need.
Philippians 2:3-11 Emptied, humbled, death. Christ the supreme example.
It takes something as grand as the news that “Jesus Christ, the righteous, took on flesh, that we may be made right with God” to reinforce our faithfulness over lifetimes.
Drawn toward leaders who are calm: anchored soul, gentleness of temper. (Pr 16:32, 1 Tim 3:3)
A gentle spirit is a sign of much power. To have a gentle spirit shows that a person has the power to master much of the inner chaos that weaker individuals let spill out onto others. It takes power not to revile in turn when reviled. Or to threaten in return, when suffering. This is the power Christ demonstrated on His way to the cross. (1 Peter 2:23)
When we dive into self-indulgence, we show that we do not trust God’s providential care and think, rather, that we must fend for ourselves.
In the scriptures, self-control is tied closely with having wisdom. It is wise for us to develop the ability to be in control of ourselves, so that when we are presented options that appeal to our desires and appetites, we can choose those which lead to life, and not death.
Prov 25:28 Self-control acts as a barrier to defend our body and soul from that which will harm us and others.
A life characterized by self-control, while hard to maintain, is a life characterized by stability and wisdom. Moreover, a life characterized by wise self-control, under the care of divine providence, leads to real, lasting joy. (Ps 16:5-6, 11)
While self-indulgence brings a fleeting joy that comes and goes in a second, wise self-control brings about an eternal joy that will last forevermore.
Jesus Christ is the true living water; those who drink from Him will never be thirsty again. Self-indulgence will give you a taste of pleasure, which vanishes. It needs to be replenished, over and over. In this way, self-indulgence makes you a slave for the next taste.
Philippians 4:8 “Be transformed by beholding.”
You possess something of immense value: your attention. The world wants it, and it will throw much at you to get it. There are folks who’s primary job is to continually maintain and upgrade sophisticated algorithms to guarantee that your attention will stay fixed on your phone.
Neil Postman in “Amusing ourselves to death”: We are a people in danger of simply becoming an audience. “The world is a stage where your attention and gaze are the commodity.”
DWELL: Philippians 4:8
Whatever we give our attention to, will form us as people.
If our minds stay on the ever changing and increasingly shallow events of our culture, we will continue to decline in wisdom and reasonableness, as followers of Christ. However, if we let Paul’s command sink into our lives and have the self-control to look up and out of the dizzying array of distractions surrounding us, giving instead a hard, sustained look at what is good, true, and beautiful, we may be transformed into wise and stable men and women.
There is a clear connection between our thought life and our actions.
BE TRANSFORMED. Rom 12:2
A mind full of truth should lead to a heart full of love and hands full of care.
2 Cor 3:18 When we behold Him, we begin to look like Him as we are transformed from one degree of glory to another.
In all of our thinking about God, we have a choice. We can be characterized by the works of the flesh, so that theology leads us to devour one another. Or, we can insist that casting our intellectual gaze on God will instead be marked by the fruit of the spirit and will not lead to devouring one another, but to bearing one another’s burdens. This is the way forward for Christian theology.
➡️AUDIO BOOK
January 10, 2023
Ronni Kurtz’s Fruitful Theology reminds us that the goal of theology is the worship of God Himself and that the heart of the theologian should be bent on that aim while pursuing it within the framework of the fruit of the Spirit, which is the mark of one who has been transformed by the God whom they are studying. The title of Dr. Kurtz’s final chapter captures well the intent of the book and the call for all who love God and are pursuing doctrinal fidelity, “Strong in Mind, Gentle in Spirit: Theology for the Glory of God and the Good of Others.” Clearly, it would be a mistake for you to simply read the conclusion alone, for it is the culmination of a stream of study that leads one through the rubric of spiritual maturity that must mark the Christian Theologian. While it is an easy read, thanks to the author's superb writing, it is by no means a book without profound depth. I plan to return to it often as a gauge for my heart in my own theological pursuits. I commend this excellent work to you!
Jason B. Alligood (Ph.D. Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary)
Jason B. Alligood (Ph.D. Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary)
March 5, 2025
Such an encouraging book! It discusses the role of theology in the Christian life through discussing the fruit of the spirit. The book seamlessly integrates Scripture and doctrinal concepts in a way that encourages the reader to reflect on their own life and their pursuit of theology, the glory of God, and the fruit of the spirit.
January 15, 2024
This book challenged and encouraged me in so many ways. I love how much the beatific vision shapes his view of the Christian life and doctrine. This book is profound yet clear and easy to read. Highly recommend this book to anyone.
January 15, 2025
This is a good book on a number of levels. But after reading Samuel Rutherford’s letters to his friends from the 1600’s I sometimes wonder if in 2025 the “faithful wound of a friend” can too easily be taken as unkindness because of the emphasis of being gentle. It is possible to make arguments for truth to our friends and still be gentle — and direct and bold. Being zealous, bold or courageous are important attributes along side kindness and gentleness. They are not mutually exclusive. The goal of our instruction is love. And faithful are the wounds of a friend. There is a loving way to say anything that needs to be said.
These sorts of books make me feel there is an imbalance in our day. Jesus is both the one who is gentle to Mary and Martha and rebukes the Pharisees and even his own disciples. Everything need not be said in a whisper nor should we be afraid to speak truth if the only reason we are failing to do so is so as so as not to “wound” a friend.
These sorts of books make me feel there is an imbalance in our day. Jesus is both the one who is gentle to Mary and Martha and rebukes the Pharisees and even his own disciples. Everything need not be said in a whisper nor should we be afraid to speak truth if the only reason we are failing to do so is so as so as not to “wound” a friend.
November 25, 2024
Not a book you read once and put on your shelf. This is one you come back to over and over again as every read leaves yearning to know the Lord and love him as tenderly and wholly as he loves you - which is IMpossible.
January 15, 2023
A needed heart check. The book is made even more compelling by the author's living out these principles in daily life. Highly recommend.
December 5, 2022
In a word: dadgum. This could quite possibly the best book of 2022. I would argue that this is the most needed book for every Christian on the planet right now. Laymen, seminarians, pastors would profit greatly from this book. Could be the next “Knowing God.” Ronni has a down to earth style in his writing, written at a popular level but still oozes with academic rigor. His tone is irenic. This book is a book that I will come back to multiply times in the future. In a time when theology leads to division, strife, and in some cases all out war. Ronni has sounded the clarion call that our theology should lead to and produce the fruit of the Spirit.
Here are some amazing quotes from the book:
“God is the desire of the theologian’s heart; God is the theologian’s portion.” (1)
“Right-sizing God as the subject of Christian theology is of most importance, for doing so will distinguish theology from other intellectual pursuits.” (2)
“The goal of theology is a clearer vision of who God is and what he is doing in the world.” (2)
“God is more than facts to be examined; he is the one who calls forth the cosmos by the word of his power, and he will be not merely examined but exalted.” (2)
“Theological intelligence is not a valid reason to downplay or neglect the vital role of emotional intelligence, relational intelligence, cultural intelligence, and the like.” (7)
“If theology is a weapon, then, let it be a weapon of love.” (16)
“The Christian who bends his or her thoughts toward the fruit of the Spirit is the Christian who leaves in freedom, not slavery.”
“Without theology, there is a danger in the Bible’s remaining a book of loosely related material that merely teaches morality.”
“It is the preeminent joy and responsibility of Christians to love God.”
“Joy is not negotiable in the Christian life, it permeates our rhythms, our personalities, our words, our actions, and just about all we are. We are to be a joyful people.” (41)
“As our tribalism grows, our ability to nuance diminishes, and it becomes increasingly difficult to pursue levelheaded reasoning and Christian wisdom.” (56)
“When God is put under the microscope and his ways analyzed, what comes into focus are not shortcomings but multiplied reasons to trust him.” (64)
“Theological wisdom is not microwaveable. (73)
“Theological wisdom does not happen overnight, and in this way theology is one of the greatest teachers of patience.” (77)
“God’s kindness is a lightening bolt that strikes our dead hearts and calls us to life.” (86)
“When we contemplate the truth of theology, it becomes clear that meekness is the way, and we can lay aside out need to be the loudest in the room or the harshest in the room.” (126)
“Self-indulgence is easy; self-control is a daily struggle.” (143)
“A mind full of truth should lead to a heart full of love and hands full of care.” (148)
“If you feel the need to indulge, indulge in the fruit of the Spirit. We ought to indulge in kindness, indulge in love, and indulge in gentleness.” (150)
“Theology is not a lone-wolf adventure, and theology done wrong can lead to destruction.” (159)
“The Christian theologian must be a lover it books but must also with great passion love the book.”
Here are some amazing quotes from the book:
“God is the desire of the theologian’s heart; God is the theologian’s portion.” (1)
“Right-sizing God as the subject of Christian theology is of most importance, for doing so will distinguish theology from other intellectual pursuits.” (2)
“The goal of theology is a clearer vision of who God is and what he is doing in the world.” (2)
“God is more than facts to be examined; he is the one who calls forth the cosmos by the word of his power, and he will be not merely examined but exalted.” (2)
“Theological intelligence is not a valid reason to downplay or neglect the vital role of emotional intelligence, relational intelligence, cultural intelligence, and the like.” (7)
“If theology is a weapon, then, let it be a weapon of love.” (16)
“The Christian who bends his or her thoughts toward the fruit of the Spirit is the Christian who leaves in freedom, not slavery.”
“Without theology, there is a danger in the Bible’s remaining a book of loosely related material that merely teaches morality.”
“It is the preeminent joy and responsibility of Christians to love God.”
“Joy is not negotiable in the Christian life, it permeates our rhythms, our personalities, our words, our actions, and just about all we are. We are to be a joyful people.” (41)
“As our tribalism grows, our ability to nuance diminishes, and it becomes increasingly difficult to pursue levelheaded reasoning and Christian wisdom.” (56)
“When God is put under the microscope and his ways analyzed, what comes into focus are not shortcomings but multiplied reasons to trust him.” (64)
“Theological wisdom is not microwaveable. (73)
“Theological wisdom does not happen overnight, and in this way theology is one of the greatest teachers of patience.” (77)
“God’s kindness is a lightening bolt that strikes our dead hearts and calls us to life.” (86)
“When we contemplate the truth of theology, it becomes clear that meekness is the way, and we can lay aside out need to be the loudest in the room or the harshest in the room.” (126)
“Self-indulgence is easy; self-control is a daily struggle.” (143)
“A mind full of truth should lead to a heart full of love and hands full of care.” (148)
“If you feel the need to indulge, indulge in the fruit of the Spirit. We ought to indulge in kindness, indulge in love, and indulge in gentleness.” (150)
“Theology is not a lone-wolf adventure, and theology done wrong can lead to destruction.” (159)
“The Christian theologian must be a lover it books but must also with great passion love the book.”
January 29, 2026
I read (listened) to this one while driving to Florida in preparation for my Systematic Theology class for YL staff training and loved the way it presented theology as so practical, applicable, and essential!
February 22, 2024
In observing Christian culture, particularly online, it would seem that as one grows in the knowledge of God pride and division grows alongside it. I wondered how one avoids this pitfall. How do I avoid becoming prideful? How do I remain gracious? 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘍𝘳𝘶𝘪𝘵𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘺.
First, Ronnie Kurtz helps us understand that all Christians are theologians. We all are on a journey in this life to know God.
He then posits that theology is done well when it leads us to worship. 🔑
When we love God with our minds not so we can understand the arguments or participate in them ourselves, but so we can worship the Lord in spirit and truth, then we will bear the fruit of the spirit.
Each subsequent chapter discusses how theology assists us in developing this fruit.
The book concludes with a helpful appendix for anyone who is new to an intentional study of Christian theology.
This is a book to read slowly to reflect on how each fruit is displayed in the practice of theology in the Christian life.
I came away with a deeper understanding of the role of theology in my relationship with God and others. It’s not simply to know what I believe. It is an act of worship and devotion to the One who gave Himself for me that will result in fruit, which benefits my communities. That makes me want to pursue knowing God even more.
First, Ronnie Kurtz helps us understand that all Christians are theologians. We all are on a journey in this life to know God.
He then posits that theology is done well when it leads us to worship. 🔑
When we love God with our minds not so we can understand the arguments or participate in them ourselves, but so we can worship the Lord in spirit and truth, then we will bear the fruit of the spirit.
Each subsequent chapter discusses how theology assists us in developing this fruit.
The book concludes with a helpful appendix for anyone who is new to an intentional study of Christian theology.
This is a book to read slowly to reflect on how each fruit is displayed in the practice of theology in the Christian life.
I came away with a deeper understanding of the role of theology in my relationship with God and others. It’s not simply to know what I believe. It is an act of worship and devotion to the One who gave Himself for me that will result in fruit, which benefits my communities. That makes me want to pursue knowing God even more.
February 10, 2025
4.2 Stars
Ronni Kurtz's "Fruitful Theology" is an excellent book about how Christians should engage their mind with theology. Kurtz's book is not an introduction to theology, but a case for Christians to engage with theology because this leads to growing in the fruits of the Spirit. Kurtz's book is built around the fruits of the Spirit and explains how each of these can be produced in the Christian life by focusing/learning some aspect of theology.
I greatly appreciated Kurtz's arguments and thought that this was a very helpful and compelling book. The book is a stark reminder of the important of doctrine in faithfully following. One cannot faithfully love others if one does not have a full understanding of how one is loved by God. Kurtz reminds us of this truth and thus has written a great book that is needed for our time. For students of theology I would highly recommend this book to read in companion with some kind of intro to systematic theology.
Ronni Kurtz's "Fruitful Theology" is an excellent book about how Christians should engage their mind with theology. Kurtz's book is not an introduction to theology, but a case for Christians to engage with theology because this leads to growing in the fruits of the Spirit. Kurtz's book is built around the fruits of the Spirit and explains how each of these can be produced in the Christian life by focusing/learning some aspect of theology.
I greatly appreciated Kurtz's arguments and thought that this was a very helpful and compelling book. The book is a stark reminder of the important of doctrine in faithfully following. One cannot faithfully love others if one does not have a full understanding of how one is loved by God. Kurtz reminds us of this truth and thus has written a great book that is needed for our time. For students of theology I would highly recommend this book to read in companion with some kind of intro to systematic theology.
June 7, 2025
Wonderful book and humbling ♥️ it gave me a lot to think about in my life and some great books to add to my reading list
August 9, 2022
Many of us have heard about it. Kids learn it in Sunday School. Sunday school teachers love to do crafts on this topic. They have activities to show their individual attributes. Preachers go through each attribute in their sermon series. Based on Galatians 5:22-23, the fruit of the Spirit is one of the most popular topics in Church and Christian circles. From Bible study materials to popular books, one can easily find resources on how to teach this. However, while many books deal with practical applications, not many have adequately dealt with the theology behind the fruit of the Spirit. This book fills in the gap with a theological treatise that undergirds each attribute. The central thesis of this book is that a fruitful theology underlines the foundation for fruitful spirituality. In other words, without a proper theology, we will not be able to fully understand how to apply and cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in us. For some people, the word "theology" might be quite intimidating. That is why author and professor Ronni Kurtz spends time explaining the critical place of theology. In a way, we are all theologians, albeit to different degrees. When we start to think of God, we are already theologizing. Not only that, he gives several arguments about the importance of a theological underpinning when studying the fruit of the Spirit. He tackles some of the misgivings among some people with regard to theology being "weaponized as an instrument" for division, pride, replacement of wisdom, etc. He then puts forth arguments for why theology is important. The chief reason is that the mind and the Spirit are closely connected. Theology is about the exercise of the mind. Fruitful theology is about the exercising of the mind toward expounding the depth of insight with regard to the fruit of the spirit. It is a means to cultivate Christian virtue. He then gives us some tips on a broad understanding of Galatians 5:19-26 before jumping into each attribute of the Spirit.
My Thoughts
===============
Books like this are long overdue. It is common to hear how laypeople dismiss the importance of theology even in the most common Bible passages. Thanks to difficult words they find hard to understand, some buy into the "Only the Bible is Enough" philosophy, jettisoning all manner of theological talk in favour of things more "biblical." Others focus more on practical applications, believing that God's Word is never meant to be difficult to understand. Both points of view are seriously flawed. Those who insist on a literal Bible-only camp are indirectly accusing scholars and theologians of unbiblical teaching. How could that be when the very basis of their studies and research are on the Bible? Those who insist on mainly the practical side would struggle with what to apply. Theology informs the right applications. Any premature rush to applications will be like empty vessels trying to make a lot of sounds. That is why I truly appreciate the author for walking readers through the basics of what theology is and why it is important for us to use this tool to study the fruit of the Spirit.
The chapters alone provide much fodder for preachers and teachers intending to teach the Fruit of the Spirit. The theological underpinning might require some customization if preachers intend to use this resource to preach or teach the Fruit of the Spirit. Instead of using the content wholesale, it would be far more beneficial for preachers/teachers to get the concepts written and to contextualize the message into their sermons. More importantly, recognize that this book is about the training of the mind to see the work of the Spirit that is consistent with the overall theological thrust. For those new to the study of theology, this book can be a convenient primer to appreciate the richness of theology. For those who have some theological training, this book reminds us of the basics of letting theology guide our ministry.
I recommend this book warmly for teaching, preaching, and as a resource for discussion groups.
Ronni Kurtz (PhD, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary) is an Assistant Professor of Theology at Cedarville University. Before moving to Ohio, Ronni was a pastor in Kansas City, Missouri for seven years where he also taught theology at Midwestern Seminary and Spurgeon College. He is the author of No Shadow of Turning: Divine Immutability and the Economy of Redemption and Fruitful Theology: How the Life of the Mind Leads to the Life of the Soul.
Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of B&H Publishing and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
My Thoughts
===============
Books like this are long overdue. It is common to hear how laypeople dismiss the importance of theology even in the most common Bible passages. Thanks to difficult words they find hard to understand, some buy into the "Only the Bible is Enough" philosophy, jettisoning all manner of theological talk in favour of things more "biblical." Others focus more on practical applications, believing that God's Word is never meant to be difficult to understand. Both points of view are seriously flawed. Those who insist on a literal Bible-only camp are indirectly accusing scholars and theologians of unbiblical teaching. How could that be when the very basis of their studies and research are on the Bible? Those who insist on mainly the practical side would struggle with what to apply. Theology informs the right applications. Any premature rush to applications will be like empty vessels trying to make a lot of sounds. That is why I truly appreciate the author for walking readers through the basics of what theology is and why it is important for us to use this tool to study the fruit of the Spirit.
The chapters alone provide much fodder for preachers and teachers intending to teach the Fruit of the Spirit. The theological underpinning might require some customization if preachers intend to use this resource to preach or teach the Fruit of the Spirit. Instead of using the content wholesale, it would be far more beneficial for preachers/teachers to get the concepts written and to contextualize the message into their sermons. More importantly, recognize that this book is about the training of the mind to see the work of the Spirit that is consistent with the overall theological thrust. For those new to the study of theology, this book can be a convenient primer to appreciate the richness of theology. For those who have some theological training, this book reminds us of the basics of letting theology guide our ministry.
I recommend this book warmly for teaching, preaching, and as a resource for discussion groups.
Ronni Kurtz (PhD, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary) is an Assistant Professor of Theology at Cedarville University. Before moving to Ohio, Ronni was a pastor in Kansas City, Missouri for seven years where he also taught theology at Midwestern Seminary and Spurgeon College. He is the author of No Shadow of Turning: Divine Immutability and the Economy of Redemption and Fruitful Theology: How the Life of the Mind Leads to the Life of the Soul.
Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of B&H Publishing and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
June 13, 2022
Within the pages of this book, Kurtz gives us a much needed reminder that our study of God should lead us to be more like God. By working through the fruit of the Spirit, Kurtz shows how our study of God should help that fruit grow and thrive within our lives. The chapters are concise but give you a lot to chew on. The conclusion is worth the price of the book as it masterfully concludes everything he had said with a series of 'May we' statements that directly apply the content of the book with the products of fruitful theology and give us goals to work toward. I wish that I had a book like this when I began my postgraduate studies. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is commit to the study of theology so that they can study in a way that grows them and glorifies God.
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