A Short Systematic Theology

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Summary: A Sequel to Mere Christianity?
Review: The three chapters of this book summarize much of a Christian theology that transcends denominational lines; I've only read such in the work of C.S. Lewis. The key to Zahl's work is not found in his theological ideas at all, for, while they read profoundly, they are merely the logical conclusion of the life of Christ. The work compels a Christian thought process that neccisitates action, while never relying on the Bible, tradition, or personal revelation. One could reject all that has been used as source material for the church for two centures, yet one could hardly argue with the claims presented in this book. Nor, of course, would one want to, as the work implicitely argues for an active Christianity that could simultaneously challenge, refute, and illegitimize the critiques of Christianity as hypocrisy in the post-modern age.

Rating:
Summary: Succinct reading, very helpful
Review: This book does an outstanding job of breaking down and yet integrating Protestant theology so that it is understandable by anyone.

Rating:
Summary: Short, compact, concise, direct...
Review: Zahl's work stood out from the beginning because of how he begins this theological treatise-- with Christology. For him, Christ is the center of God's revelation to us, the crux of our faith, the epicenter from which our thoughts and beliefs about God should expand. It sounds like a no-brainer, that we would discuss Christianity from the standpoint of Christology. Yet most theological works start with Scripture, Natural Theology... Or the question of whether or not there is a God and what leads us to believe there is... I like this approach better-- not only does it make sense (Why didn't I think of this before and write the book? I'm thinking... or, Why didn't someone else...?), but it is Biblical-- as Christ is the epicenter of the Scriptures. Short enough to be read in one sitting, you will probably want to take each of the 25 theses alone, so that you can think through (and savor) the ramifications of each.