A Theology Primer
Robert Cummings Neville author
Format:Paperback
Publisher:State University of New York Press
Published:2nd Oct '91
Should be back in stock very soon
A concise, philosophically grounded introduction to Christian systematic theology that organizes core doctrines—such as creation, Trinity, sin, salvation, and Christology—within a framework open to contemporary social, ethical, and interreligious dialogue.
What does it mean to think theologically in a world shaped by competing religions, modern philosophy, and pressing social questions?
In A Theology Primer, Robert Cummings Neville offers a clear yet intellectually rigorous introduction to Christian theology as a disciplined way of thinking about God, creation, and human existence. Rather than treating doctrine as static belief, Neville presents theology as an ongoing act of conceptual interpretation—one that engages scripture, tradition, reason, and experience in a dynamic conversation.
Spanning topics from the nature of divine creation and the Trinity to sin, salvation, Christology, and the role of the Church, the book builds a systematic framework for understanding Christian thought in relation to contemporary philosophical and interreligious concerns. Particular attention is given to the human condition under covenant, the complexities of grace and freedom, and the social dimensions of sin and sanctification.
Neville also situates classical Christian claims alongside liberation and feminist theological perspectives, as well as broader world religious traditions, making the work especially relevant for readers interested in theology's public and global dimensions.
Readers will find:
· A structured introduction to core Christian doctrines
· Philosophically informed analysis of theological concepts
· Engagement with modern ethical and social issues
· Dialogue with non-Christian religions and contemporary theological movements
Praised for its clarity and accessibility while remaining philosophically sophisticated, A Theology Primer serves as both a classroom text and a serious entry point into systematic theology.
Whether you are approaching theology for the first time or revisiting it with critical questions in mind, this book provides a disciplined framework for thinking through faith, reason, and the meaning of divine life in the world.
“The book is very interesting — dense and complicated theological issues are reframed and the issues and arguments are adumbrated in clear fashion.” — Lonnie D. Kliever, Southern Methodist University
“Neville has written an elementary textbook of Christian theology that is both readable for the layperson and is also philosophically and theologically sophisticated. He does not exhaust theological doctrines; but, instead, provides a classical framework for the discussion of contemporary social and political issues. He is sensitive to the implications of non-Christian religions as they bear upon the questions and formulations of Christian belief systems. He also provides a place for a discussion of feminist and third world liberation theologies within the context of classical theological formulations. Neville writes with clarity and force.” — Charles E. Winquist, Syracuse University
“It presents a concise systematic summary of the Christian faith. In addition to getting it all together within a very few pages, it makes interesting connections to major world religions. I also liked the author’s invitation to enter into critical dialogue with his perspective. …The work goes to the central task of Christian theology, and is a significant contribution to the field, in so far as it represents the outline of a well-known scholar’s systematic views.” — Walter E. Wyman, Jr., Whitman College
ISBN: 9780791408506
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 381g
221 pages