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Know the Truth: A Handbook of Christian Belief

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'You will know the truth,' said Jesus, 'and the truth will set you free.' Christians have already begun to know God and his truth. This handbook assists in that liberating knowledge, as it opens up the great themes of God's Word and shows how they fit together. Each chapter deals with one aspect of biblical truth and encourages further study with Scripture references to look up, questions for discussion, and books for additional reading. The main sections conclude with practical reflection on how the Bible's teaching challenges us and moves us to adore the living God. This new edition of Bruce Milne's widely appreciated Know the Truth has been extensively revised and updated to ensure its ongoing relevance and value as an excellent introduction to Christian doctrine.

384 pages, Paperback

First published May 4, 1982

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About the author

Bruce Milne

37 books10 followers

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5 stars
65 (32%)
4 stars
82 (40%)
3 stars
41 (20%)
2 stars
8 (3%)
1 star
6 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for G Walker.
240 reviews29 followers
November 21, 2012
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.
429 reviews11 followers
April 30, 2021
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.
Profile Image for Joseph Walliker.
46 reviews
October 22, 2025
Be right back, I've got to recommend this book to everyone in my church! A fantastic overview of faith and Christian theology.
Profile Image for Christopher Rush.
673 reviews12 followers
March 15, 2013
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.
Profile Image for Ann Thomas.
Author 21 books54 followers
August 1, 2012
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.
1 review4 followers
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February 27, 2015
Excellent introduction to Christian doctrine. Brief enough to use in the church, and yet not overly simplistic.
Profile Image for Neil Saltmarsh.
329 reviews1 follower
July 14, 2022
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.
25 reviews
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July 19, 2019
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.
13 reviews
December 31, 2025
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.
Profile Image for Paul Vawter.
85 reviews3 followers
May 28, 2019
Pretty standard introduction to systematic theology from a Baptist, amillennial, reformed perspective. Milne is favorable toward charismaticism and dismissive of dispensationalism.
Profile Image for Peter J Delain.
2 reviews
March 5, 2020
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.
Profile Image for Roberto Torres.
Author 1 book
March 6, 2021
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.
10 reviews1 follower
February 11, 2023
Really helpful, lighter than systematic theology, but still very clear, through, and organized
Profile Image for Connor Longaphie.
379 reviews11 followers
February 11, 2019
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
1 review
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April 8, 2017
i need to understand doctrine
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews