Evangelical Truth: A Personal Plea for Unity, Integrity & Faithfulness (Christian Doctrine in Global Perspective) is an easy-reading theological book that defines the contours of Evangelical belief.
The late John Stott had a great ability of explaining complicated ideas in practical everyday language. This book is a necessary primer for understanding Evangelical theology.
The book has only 3 chapters that are bookended by a longer-than-normal introduction and conclusion. The three chapters are intentional. Stott shapes the book by expressing Evangelical theology around the Triune God.
The first chapter concerns the revelation of God through the scriptures.
Chapter two focuses on the cross of Christ through salvation and the Christian message.
The third chapter discusses the ministry of the Holy Spirit through Christian practice and community.
Stott does an excellent job of placing systematic theology in our practical world. Subjects such as revelation, inspiration, justification by faith, and holiness are discussed along with contemporary motifs like revival, postmodernism, social action, and miracles.
The main fault of the book is that it is too short. Many of the topics are only talked about on a surface level. However, Stott scratches the surface deep enough to whet the appetite for further study.
The book would be an excellent read for anyone who is beginning to study theology, or wants to better understand Evangelical theology, or wants a light refresher on Christian essential beliefs.
It would also make a wonderful Sunday school text that would help create many fine discussions.
All in all, I highly recommend John Stott’s Evangelical Truth.
Sounds good to me…I think I would be interested….I wonder how I could “fit that in”…Thanks for the suggestion. I will see about my Tuesday night group…