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Rating: 
Summary: Biased misrepresentation of Scripture to support doctrine
Review: Dorman's book covers all the major doctrines in Christian theology. One strength is that he gives attention to topics often omitted such as angels and providence. His presentation is orderly and fairly well laid out.
The other positive aspect of Dorman's presentation is his use of church history. Though the brevity of the book prevens substantial historical discourse, Dorman does well to at least associate the names of early, medieval, reformation, and modern theologians with the various doctrines he explores.
The biblical hermeneutics employed, however, leave much to be desired. Loosely contextualized proof texts are frequently his basis for theological claims, and there is no evidence that Dorman has done much in the way of biblical history and interpretation. One example of this is his understanding of the Hebrew conception of the afterlife as one of final judgement and good/bad reward/punishment eternal destiny, rather than regarding Sheol as a neutral realm of the dead as all other biblical historians and scholars do.
Unfortunately, the reader is constantly aware of the author's presuppositions and biases (Dorman writes from the Reformed tradition.) Though he attempts to present more contemporary and liberal views, he does so with very little regard for such views and continues on, almost assuming he has convinced the reader to agree with him. This unfortunate yet prominent feature of the book makes it appealing and useful only to those who hold traditional Protestant views. Catholics, liberal Protestants and fundamentalists will find little use for this book, and will often be generalized and misrepresented.
If you are looking for a primer in conservative theology with proof texts as the main source of evidence, you may find the book slightly more useful than the two-star rating I have given.
Rating: 
Summary: A Book for Many Discussions
Review: We have successfully used Dorman's book in small group discussions among people of different Christian backgrounds - Catholic, Wesleyan, Reformed, Baptist. The presentation of contrasting perspectives has been especially valuable to engage a mix of liberal and conservative Christians in a discussion about the diversity that exists today without igniting a liberal-conservative confrontation. The historical perspective of the book lends itself to this more positive outcome. Not dwelling more on modern theological trends is a good thing in this case. Dorman's use of classroom questions as a guide to select material also means the interests of those seeking to dig deeper are often answered or at least they are stimulated to look further. The book makes some compromises to cover so much in a very readable, concise format. Every author would probably pick some different emphasis or approach at some point. However, this book time and time again engenders excitement in those who turn to it trying for the first time to explore the core doctrines of the faith. For it's purpose Dorman's book is quite successful.
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