Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine Reviews

• Scripture Saturated Systematic Theology

  
  By A2T3KLY0CCKTG4 on 2000-12-27
  Though I have found immense help in Dr. Grudem's book over the past months, I have post-poned a review in order to get a complete reading of it first. Now that I have read it all, I can say that this may be the best systematic theology written in the 20th century.

  Dr. Grudem combines theological insight, practical application, and faithful exegesis of Scripture with simple, uncomplicated language and clear thinking. The result? The most readable and informative Systematic Theology one could desire. Every chapter starts with a question and ends with application questions and a hymn! Education is turned into exaltation over and over again as Grudem moves you from deep thinking to appropriate feeling about the greatest truths in the universe.

  The arrangement of topics is typical. Grudem covers the doctrine of God, man, Christ, salvation, church, and last things. Like any book of this magnitude, it has strengths and weaknesses. But the strengths are more than the weaknesses. The section on theology proper (the doctrine of God) is outstanding. Grudem's explanation of the Trinity is very helpful avoiding both modalism and arianism. His treatment of God's character and attributes is especially good, arguing strongly against the "open" view of God and process theology.

  The chapters on Creation and Providence are also very well-done containing lengthy Scriptural arguments for his position. His soteriology is Reformed and not much different than you would get from Berkhof or Murray. Still good, though.

  Grudem spends much time discussing the Holy Spirit (though the chapters are scattered around the book and not in one section)and especially the church. His understanding of the nature of the church is excellent avoiding denominationalism, yet affirming a very Biblically-grounded argument for plural elders governing a congregational church. He is baptistic in polity, though not dogmatic on the issue. He believes that charismatic gifts are still current in the church today, but is wary of extremes. Whether one agrees with Grudem or not on this issue, he should be read, because he approaches the subject from a scholarly standpoint with supreme concern for the text of Scripture. One can't afford to neglect his arguments in forming their opinions (I still somewhat unsettled on many questions relating to this and so do not write from a bias.)

  On last things, Grudem defends historic premillenialism and presents some thoughtful arguments to both amillenialism and dispensational pre-tribulation premillenialists. He should be read here. But again, he proceeds with caution.

  The weakest chapter of the book is the one on the Atonement. Although Grudem provides some excellent scholarship on the question of Christ's "descent into hell" here, there is a lack of depth in his treatment of this most glorious doctrine. Berkhof and Gill are better.

  Overall this is an excellent book. It's greatest strength is its textual basis. Grudem's chief concern is to be Scriptural and for the most part he succeeds well. You don't have to be a theologian to read this book. But you will become a theologian if you do.
  
  

• More Questions Than Answers

  
  By A1U0KH1K52P754 on 2002-10-22
  Grudem's Systematic Theology was required reading for my theology classes in Seminary. I must say that I enjoyed reading his work, even though I do not sympathize with Calvinism. I think that the most beneficial aspect of this work is that it is pretty easy reading (easy reading for theology anyway).

  Grudem has included several features that make this one of the best Systematic Theologies in print today.

  * He provides the reader with clear and understandable definitions of the theological terms he uses.

  * He closes each chapter with Questions for Personal Application.

  * In addition to suggestions for further reading for each topic, he lists parallel sections in other systematic theologies from a variety of perspectives (Anglican, Arminian, Baptist, Dispensational, Lutheran, Reformed, Renewal, and Roman Catholic).

  * Each chapter has a Scripture Memory Passage related to the chapter topic.

  * He includes a hymn that goes along with the topic of each chapter.

  The main weakness of this work is the same weakness present in every systematic theology I have read. Namely, that the writer presents his system without addressing the passages of Scripture that do not easily fit in with his system. I finished the book with more than two hundred questions, wondering how Grudem would respond. Most of the questions were formed directly from Scriptures that seem to be in disagreement with Grudem's system.

  Overall, I would still recommend this systematic theology. However, I would recommend that the reader ask questions of the text and then seek the answers in the Bible. This is how we grow in our understanding of theology. Even if you are not a Calvinist, this book will aid you in understanding theology.
  
  

• Non-fundamentalists need not buy

  
  By AYNSTQDLZ9TVX on 2002-05-02
  Wayne Grudem's Systematic Theology will inform many Evangelicals with an interest in theology. It is a scholarly work, comprehensive, and scratches where most Evangelical Christians are itching, covering such topics as Creation, Eschatology (the Last Things), female leadership, and charismatic/spiritual gifts. It is also clearly written and has an unusually devotional style. In short, it is a good summary of contemporary Evangelical Reformed orthodoxy. But unfortunately that's all it is.

  Any reader hoping for a stretching and illuminating foray into the theological mainstream will be disappointed. Grudem's work is flawed in several respects. Firstly, it presents itself as a pretty authoritative exposition of orthodox Christian belief. But this is misleading. Grudem's theology can be located near the most conservative end of the theological spectrum. As such certain key doctrines, such as the authority of Scripture, are asserted rather that convincingly argued. And many other issues are glossed over as practically self-evident, such as the doctrine of God's nature. It is clear that this theology is written by a man who has either not been exposed to the rigorous questions of theologians who do not share his views, or, which is worse, he simply regards such 'liberal' theologians as irrelevant.

  The second flaw is related to this, and it is the fact that Grudem's theology is unbalanced. It is true that a systematic theology cannot in practice give equal weight to everything, but Grudem does not even make a laudable attempt. It is indicative of the narrow theological circles in which he moves that he spends pages and pages arguing about peripheral issues while he ignores the central challenges of theology. For example, in turning to Grudem's section on the resurrection, one finds several paragraphs devoted to a (in my view) fairly inconsequential discussion of the nature of Jesus' risen body, while there is hardly a word breathed about what the significance of the resurrection might be, its place in theology, its soteriological value, its relation to history, and its relevance to the believer. Such issues are merely glossed. Grudem is at times painfully pedantic, but at others bewilderingly vague and superficial.

  The final flaw I will mention is Grudem's theological method. His approach is to practically dismiss philosophical questions from the realm of theological inquiry (though they creep in implicitly through the back door many times throughout his work), and to make Scripture the sole arbiter of theological truth. Grudem fails to realise that 'the truths' of Scripture are not self-evident, but result from interpretation of the text: thus prior assumptions are required in order to make any sense of the text of the Bible whatever. Grudem's lack of interpretative sophistication is never more evident than when he simply asserts a view and then presses a number of biblical texts into his service to back up his point. The manner in which this is done has little regard for the nature of Scripture, and is the kind of proof-texting approach that is both careless and unconvincing to any non-fundamentalist Christian.

  In short, Grudem's theology would be best employed as a reference point for convinced Reformed Evangelicals; more searching readers ought probably to pick up a more balanced and less officious work such as that of Leo Garrett.
  
  

• In many ways, this is an excellent work

  
  By A2YI3SU5THQUQZ on 2002-10-22
  I have given this work by Wayne Grudem 5 stars not because I agree word for word with everything he espouses here, because I don't. I am of the view that theology, as a discipline, is like any other discipline in being a human endeavor, and therefore, is fallible. When reviewing works of theology, I believe in being careful about not expecting any theological work to approach a level of infallibility that only Scripture can ever attain. But in reading and reviewing theological material, I do expect the author to put forth an intelligent, logical, rational, persuasive BIBLICAL presentation that hangs together internally as well as biblically. So despite my reservations and disagreements with some of what Grudem puts forth here, I think it deserves 5 stars because in my view, this work gets the job done.

  There are a number of clear strengths to this book. First, this book is by far the most accessible systematic treatment of theology I've ever read. If there is any systematic theology book that theology novices could really sink their teeth into, this is it. This book, while effectively dealing with the many difficult theological issues that need to be dealt with in any adequate systematic theology, avoids drowning these difficult issues in difficult terminology that too many systematic theologies wrongly assume are common terms that non-theology focused Christians understand and don't need defining. This is what makes so many systematic theologies inaccessible to most Christians. While it's true that this represents a sad commentary on the relevance of theological fundamentals and ideas in the minds of too many Christians, I felt that this book by Grudem is a great place to begin reeducating everyday Christians to think theologically and to be able to grasp the material without being intimidated. This is an enormous strength of this book.

  Second, I find myself agreeing with many of the endorsements of this book from a diverse variety of theological perspectives in saying that this book is respectful of varying theological traditions and is clearly written in a spirit of Christian love. Grudem is mostly reformed in his theology and clearly articulates a reformed theology here. But he does so without being disrespectful to alternate viewpoints. In addition, his bibliography at the end of each chapter and at the end of the book is extremely thorough in giving readers a long list of resources from a variety of theological traditions.

  Third, I felt that Grudem's book was fairly thorough in dealing with the many areas of systematic theology. I felt that his section on ecclesiology was especially good, while also clearly articulating persuasive positions on election, reprobation, grace, and providence.

  Having said all this, I do believe that Grudem's book reflects a disproportionate emphasis on charismatic gifts that was both unpersuasive and overdone. Grudem clearly makes an investment in this book to advancing charismatic operativeness. In fact, it seemed to me that Grudem devoted more time to this particular issue than on many of the fundamental doctrines of God and salvation. Given that the operativeness vs cessationist debate is (or at least should be) a secondary issue, I did think it was inappropriate for Grudem to treat this issue as if it was a primary article of faith, which is unfortunately a common attitude that has encompassed the charismatic gift issue in elements of both sides of the debate.

  In the end, while I was close to giving the book 4 stars because of the sometimes missplaced emphasis outlined above, I felt that this book was simply too good in too many other areas to demote the review I'm giving it. I wholeheartedly agree with Grudem's introduction where he desires Christians to think theologically because theology is not a dry, academic exercise, but a vibrant expression of God's faithfulness that can dramatically transform our faith when undertaken in obedience to God. Since I think this book has reintroduced the wonder and amazement of theology to so many Christians who had previously adopted a 'see no evil, hear no evil' attitude towards theology which I think is a terribly half baked approach to the Christian life, I believe that Grudem has done the body of Christ an enormous service which will hopefully result in greater interest and passion in contemplating the great things of God as a joyful endeavor of the mind.
  
  

• Why is this book so good?

  
  By A3GVXL028FFXMW on 2006-01-09
  Although I personally disagree with a number of the positions held in this book, and might agree more with other Systematic Theologies, this one is by far the best. It truly is head and shoulders above any of the other Systematic Theologies I have surveyed--including Hodge, Erickson, Wiley, Miley, Geisler and others--although each has it's value.
  
  First, it's designed for the layman, but meaty enough for those with more education. It handles challenging issues without getting off into extraneous detail. You go right to the crux of the issue. In addition, Grudem's tone feels kind. You really feel that he is instructing you in love. As many have pointed out, it really has a devotional quality to it in many places, including appropriate hymns at the end of each chapter. Look for that in another theology!
  
  Second, it has excellent helps. For example, he indexes many of the major Systematic Theologies at the end of each chapter. This allows you to very easily compare his perspective with another, and do deeper reasearch.
  
  Third, it's broad yet concise. I really feel that with this book on my shelf, I have access to the crux of a lot of major doctrinal issues. It covers many many issues from the atonement to miracles and the baptism of the holy spirit.
  
  Fourth, it is truly a Biblical approach. It's not just a doctrinaire polemic about pet positions. Just reading one chapter really challenged me and reinspired me to examine the Bible more closely--that is because that is exactly what Grudem himself is attempting. He's building up doctrine from Scripture, not the reverse.
  
  I believe this book is destined to become a classic, and perhaps redefine the genre. Start here.
  
  
• Selected as the text for a 3-semester theology class series
  By on 1997-06-02
  I have adopted Grudem's "Systematic Theology" as the text our college uses for its foundational three-semester systematic theology course. Grudem has a knack of handling difficult topics clearly and concisely, and his excellent writing style has been helpful for students who have had no previous exposure to theology. Grudem knows his topics well, and has gone beyond most introductory theology texts in several areas: 1) each chapter closes with a list of personal application questions, so that the student may appropriate truth into living; 2) each chapter gives an excellent bibliography for further study; and 3) each chapter ends by recommending a hymn for singing, showing that good theology demonstrates itself in doxology. In summary, I would say this: I have been searching for a good introductory theology text for twenty years, and have ended my search with this book. If I could have had the time and ability to write my own text, it would have been very similar in format and content to Grudem's. Dennis Thomason. Yellowstone Baptist College, Billings, Montana
  
  
• Theology at its best!
  By A218GTUVERWJ5 on 2002-01-02
  Wayne Grudem has truly manufactured one of the best recent-day systematic theologies. Written from an Evangelical framework, it is Reformed on the major issues (Authority of Scripture, doctrine of God, fall of man, atonement, regeneration, election, justification, etc.) but is Charismatic/Third Wave on issues like spiritual gifts and the work of the Holy Spirit in believers' lives. This work is easy to read, but in no way watered down.

  Dr. Grudem infuses academic and scholarly exegesis with a passion and hunger for God. By asking theological questions throughout, he provokes thought for the reader that leads to a better understanding of the material presented. He is very sound, theologically, and fair, personally. Of course he advocates the Reformed position, but he represents other theological perspectives adequately and without bias. Grudem also offers insightful comments, thorough explanations of doctrines, and conducts hermeneutics in a very understanding way. But what makes this systematic theology one of the greatest is that it is very life applicable for today's issues and relevant for even the layman.

  Part 1 deals with the doctrine of the Word of God. In this section, Grudem presents convincing evidence for the infallibility of the Word of God. He also gives a satisfying history of the canonization of the New and Old Testament Scriptures.

  Part 2 conveys the doctrine of God (existence, knowability, "incommunicable" and "communicable" attributes, the Trinity, creation, providence, miracles, prayer, angels, and Satan and demons). In this section, Grudem denies "open theism" (often argued by Clark Pinnock, Gregory A. Boyd, John Sanders, Richard Rice, and William Hasker) and reaffirms Calvinist convictions of the sovereignty of God. Also, his explanation of the Trinity is done excellently and clearly.

  Part 3 concerns itself with the doctrine of man. This systematic is like others in that it includes the creation of man, the essential nature of man, sin, and the convenants between man and God...but Wayne Grudem has gone the extra mile by including male and female roles prescribed in the Bible. He holds true that both male and female are created equal in the image of God, but that their roles differ in the church and at home. Egalitarians will disagree with his complementarian theology, but no one can deny that Grudem presents his controversial case masterfully. He is a genius at explaining opposing viewpoints without misrepresenting them.

  Part 4 and 5 each integrates Christology (doctrines concerning Christ) and Pneumatology (doctrines concerning the Holy Spirit). The deity of Christ, atonement, election, adoption, etc. is explained brilliantly with theological soundness, exegetical reasoning, and practical application. This section also deals with controversial issues like eternal security, baptism with the Holy Spirit, and progressive (as opposed to entire) sanctification. Grudem, Third Wave in his theology of the filling with the Holy Spirit proposes several hermeneutical arguments that differ from classical Pentecostalism.

  Part 6 deals with ecclesiology (doctrines of the church). In this section Grudem explains the role and function of the church, the unity and purity of the church, the authority that the Church has, church government, sacraments, worship, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit given to the church for edification. Once again, even though Grudem is Reformed on the major issues, he is far from being a Cessationist like Warfield, Bruner, Reymond, Ryrie, and Gaffin. Grudem sponsors the non-cessationist position very persuasively. Whatever position you may adhere to, this section will definitely benefit and inform you.

  Part 7 is the last part. Eschatology (doctrines concerning the last things--the future) is the theme of this part. The return of Christ, the millenium and final judgment and eternal punishment, and the new heavens and earth are each expounded. My favorite element of this entire systematic theology is that Grudem gives much attention to representing other viewpoints. This unique trait is especially appreciated in this part. He articulately explains the three views of the millenium: amillennialism, premillennialism, and postmillennialism. He also clearly explains the three views of the rapture in premillennialism (pre-, mid-, and post-tribulation rapture). Additionally, he educates the reader of the differences between historic premillenialism (which he advocates) and dispensational premillenialism. Grudem's systematic by far provides the most thorough investigation of differing theologies.

  These 7 parts (and his 6 appendices) offer a truly amazing systematic theology that will please all who read it. This work is not only as theologically invigorating as Erickson, Litton, Wiley, Pieper, and Carter, but is filled with the personality that separates it from "dry" systematics. I recommend this systematic to theologians, professors, pastors, Bible students, and laymen alike. No matter who you are, you will sense that this book was written especially or you.
  
  

• A New Standard for a New Millenium
  By on 2000-03-08
  Of the many works on Systematic Theology being sold today, from a conservative-evangelical perspective, this is undoubtedly the finest.

  Grudem has succeeded in providing a clear presentation of the historic, Protestant understanding of the Bible's overall teaching in a clear and concise way. Moreover, he has made such a study eminently practical by providing questions for personal application, scripture memory suggestions, and Ñ of all things in a theology book - a concluding hymn/song of praise and worship! While some may take issue over Grudem's understanding of particular topics, none can deny that he seeks to do justice to various opinions; always careful to dignify their representative spokespersons. Perhaps the works most rewarding feature is the humble tone and "air" of teachableness that pervades it - a feature hearkening back to what is perhaps the seminal Protestant theological textbook: Calvin's "Institutes."

  Here is a volume that careful students of God's truth ought to digest over the course of many years... We give it 5 STARS as the best in overall soundness and usefullness.

  
  
  

• Helpful and useful systematic
  By on 1999-02-27
  Strengths - (1) Grudem's Systematic is very readable, written in a very clear and precise style. (2) Grudem interacts well with most of the trends in modern evangelicalism. His critiques of Pinnock and his Arminian friends are outstanding. (3) Grudem summarizes a lot of his own research in the chapters and sections on inerrancy, gender issues, the descent of Christ into hades, church polity, and spiritual gifts. A lot of this is outstanding material that you cannot find anywhere else. (4) Other sections, such as the canon of scripture, the ordo salutis, and eschatology are very good. (5) Grudem provides strong scriptural support for his positions. (6) There is a good emphasis on personal applications. A lot of this material will preach. It can be used in Bible studies and sermons. (7) It contains very useful bibliographic information. Weaknesses: (1) There is almost a total lack of historical theology and interaction with non-evangelical theologians. (2) Grudem spends too much space discussing minor disagreements with his colleagues at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. (3) Too much space is devoted to Grudem's pet issues (spiritual gifts) while other issues are neglected (general and special revelation).(4) The heavy emphasis on charismatic theology in a couple of chapters is likely to make the book offensive to people who could benefit from the rest of the chapters. (5) The chapter on the atonement lacks the kind of synthesis that you find, for example, in Erickson's Systematic. But despite these weaknesses, Grudem's Systematic is one of the best recent systematics by an evangelical and definitely worth reading.
  
  
• Systematic theology at its worst
  By A743MZRZL21AP on 2002-01-26
  What is a systematic theology?

  Well, apparently that depends. To an Augustine, or an Anselm, or a Luther, or a Barth, it is a critical reflection on the content of the Christian message with a particular view toward realizing the implications of that message in a culturally relevant fashion.

  For a Grudem, systematic theology is merely an outlining of everything the Bible has to say about everything in a hopelessly dull and useless fashion.

  It should not be suprising that Grudem's text has in recent years becomes so popular throughout American evangelical circles. Because he represents only the latest and most visible in a long, dreary line of American theologians whose ability to do theology is fatally impaired by their radical Biblicism (aka Bible-olatry) and sociopathic evangelical conditioning.

  As such, his text displays the classical evangelical symptoms of extreme insularity, isolationism, and ahistoricity. This allegation can be confirmed by preparing a list of 'significant' theologians and theologies of the twentieth century from traditions other than American evangelicalism (not that there actually is such a thing as 'significant' American evangelical theology) and then scanning the text and index to see if they are discussed. They are not; or if they are they are treated cursorily and derisively. Barth, for instance--who is widely regarded as the most significant Protestant theologian since Luther and whose own systematic theology reaches to thousands of pages in fourteen volumes--receives a single one-sentence treatment IN A FOOTNOTE. Nor is there serious treatment of Tillich, Kung, Bultmann, Rahner, Moltmann, Kierkegaard, liberation theology, feminist theology, black theology, political theology--in short, no serious treatment of any theologian or theology that has done anything significant in the last century to shape world-wide the Christian consciousness.

  Avoid this book at all costs.
  
  

• Tediously pedestrian presentation of standard Reformed dogma
  By AMMEMPM9MPS55 on 2003-03-21
  Make no bones about it: Grudem's Systematic Theology represents about the dullest and least inspired end of the evangelical theological spectrum. His method is only too obvious: Announce your conclusions; line up the prooftexts; shoot holes through everyone else's prooftexts; proudly announce the matter settled.

  Grudem's 1200-page tome is not hard to understand, yet its banality makes it unreadable except for those who share his uncritical prooftexting approach to theology. He consciously avoids interaction with non-conservative sources on the grounds that dialogue with theologians or scholars who do not maintain a belief in the inerrancy of the Bible is fruitless. This view of Scripture is set out in the first view chapters in a formulaic manner that will convince only his fellow inerrantists. From thereon in, Grudem ploughs through the standard Reformed doctrines with utter sincerity and conviction, and yet utterly unconvincing to all but card-carrying members of his world.

  By way of example of the trite and mind-numbing nature of Grudem's theology, note the twenty-four pages he offers on the doctrine of the Trinity, most of which is spent proving his case, refuting opposing viewpoints, and barely a page explaining what relevance it has for Christian theology and faith. The picture we get is that the Trinity is merely a dogma to be defended because it is true. Whether it really means anything appears secondary. We get no vision of what overarching implications the Trinity might have for Christians, but just a few contrived and unconnected points that fall woefully short of integrating the dogma into anything approaching a coherent Christian theology.

  I feel I have been rather harsh with Grudem, but perhaps deservedly. He frequently throws up simplistic answers to his opponents' arguments and quotes Bible texts in support of his own views (basically the Calvinism of the Westminster Confession) in an alarmingly glib manner, rarely offering any real exegesis, and rarely justifying his philosophical assumptions (indeed, we get the impression he thinks he has none TO defend).

  This may well give you a thorough overview of conservative Reformed evangelicalism (with, importantly, a charismatic bent), but outside of that narrow scope of usefulness, its value is severely limited.
  
  

• Very good - for what it's intended to be
  By A3I8X8OQONXJIF on 2006-01-29
  I read through all 68 reviews so far...and couldn't help but add my few thoughts. As a preface, these thoughts come from a very strong evangelical reviewer who holds that the Bible is infallible - perfect, complete, and holding no self-contradictions.
  
  Most of the detractors rated it low primarily because it taught doctrine that they disagreed with (usually either from postmodern, cessationalist, or Arminian positions). Most of its praises were from those who agreed with Grudem (calvinists, charismatics, conservatives). In fact, one reviewer in particular rated it lowly and then arrogantly said his "greatest concern" was that Grudem did not believe as he did (I believe it was with regard to dispensationalism).
  
  I look at a book like this and wonder how Greco-Roman our culture has become. Has Plato more sway over our thinking than Jesus? With issues that are currently "hot", our highest goal so easily becomes the achievement of a full, logical "system" (hence the systematic part of the title). I do not believe that the Hebrew mindset elevated logic to anywhere near what Western theologians do today. Remember that all the individual authors of the Bible were Jewish except possibly Luke. As such, I would much prefer a volume titled "Topical Theology" rather than "Systematic Theology".
  
  Thinking systematically forces our minds into a pattern that does its best to turn all Scripture into one big puzzle that we need to put together. Would a Hebrew mind think about it the same way? I see the Hebrews seeking wisdom above logic. If two passages did not fit together, they left them apart, assuming that part of the puzzle had not yet been given.
  
  In fact the very ones who showed the greatest inclination towards systematizing scripture were the very ones Jesus argued with - the pharisees and sadducees. These two groups were so focused on their focuses that their only unity came in opposing Jesus. Not only that, but many Hebrew scholars in Jesus' day had come up with a theology that fused together Jesus' two comings, even though in hindsight it is very clear that one coming was as suffering servant and the second as a victorious King. Further, I see no evidence of Jesus seeking, honoring, or teaching a full logical system. In fact, though He was all-knowing, His focus was utterly practical and pastoral. In Paul's, Peter's, and John's writings, the only letter that comes close to being systematic is Romans, which clearly does not talk about every individual aspect of salvation (Jesus' resurrection being notably absent).
  
  When it comes to the Bible, I believe we should not be so anxious to throw our support behind a given system of understanding (calvinism, arminianism, etc) and instead take Scripture at face value, assuming that until Jesus returns we might not have all the puzzle pieces. The Bible is 100% complete, yet it does not explain everything. I would instead say that God gave us everything that would help us love Jesus deeper during this lifetime, leaving out parts that would only serve to distract from the person we worship.
  
  That said, Grudem's work does a very good job for what is intended to be. I wouldn't agree with all of his conclusions, but I do agree with his humility and purpose. This book increased my love for the Bible and (almost) every minute reading Grudem's words caused me to spend five minutes in the Bible itself. It's not perfect, but that's the best metric of judging books that I've found yet.
  
  Some of the negative reviews mentioned that Grudem almost took for granted what protestants and evangelicals would consider "fundamental" doctrines. This is reasonably accurate, and as I understand it is because his desire is not to re-prove these beliefs. His audience is clearly in the evangelical camp and those seeking a more classical, less relevant (or sometimes very relevant but just way longer) approach should look elsewhere.
  
  With some issues, Grudem does not spend much time discussing opposing viewpoints, undoubtably trying to stay within the constraints of one singular volume. Some of the areas which recieve a lot of attention (and from various perspectives, although he always presents his conclusion clearly) are
  - the work of the Holy Spirit today
  - Baptism
  - Church government
  - Salvation, election, free will
  - End times
  
  The labels of Grudem's doctrinal stances have been mentioned in other reviews, but I would like to point out that this book is very helpful regardless of one's personal views. At the very least you will find a worthy opponent and fellow student of God's word.
  
  
• A Devout Waste of Time
  By A12K39NB1OGQ8U on 2007-03-17
  Grudem's work is just that, a devout waste of time. I admire his devotion to Christ and the works devotional tone; however, beyond the devotion it lacks academic rigor. One of the most glaring weaknesses is the book spends almost as much time telling the reader why they should believe as it does to what should be believed. Grudem's epistemic foundationlism dominates the prolegomena of the book. In what amounts to a condescending circular argument the reader is told that God is necessarily and philosophically truth, therefore whatever God utters is truth, therefore the Bible as the verbally inspired word (not to be confused with Christ as the Word) is truth, therefore whatever the scriptures say about God is necessarily true, and therefore they are to be fully trusted. This argument is a waste of time, and if it is intended to convince one who does not consider themselves a part of the church, it will fail. Faith is ultimately a confession to be made, and the foundationlism seems insincere.
  
  Grudem treats the scriptures as if they were somehow part of the Godhead. Despite his holding to a basic Chalcedonian (orthodox) view of Christ as fully God and fully human, he neglects the human aspect of scripture. As his view of inspiration amounts to the human being consumed and turned into a type-writer for the Divine.
  
  He is also currently involved in reinterpreting the view of the Trinity that has been orthodox since the first ecumenical council of Nicea. He is reintroducing a type of Semi-Arianism in order to recreate the Trinity in the image of his view of the Christian household. Where traditional orthodoxy has asserted that Christ, to image faith for those who would follow, was obedient to the desires of the Father, was non-the-less eternally homoousias (of the same substance) with the Father - God of God, light of light. The subordination of the Son to the Father was condemned as heresy in Arius, and is no less questionable when Grudem (and others) seek to reintroduce it. The trinitarian subordinationism will always be a poor interpretation of divinity, and must not be used to support the subordination of women in the Christian household.
  
  For one who seeks to monitor the doctrinal orthodoxy of others, Grudem himself seems to fall very short.
  
  I would give this work less than one star if I could.
  
  
• Naive theological method at its most banal
  By A3BGHJZ5RHO2X9 on 2003-02-27
  Grudem's book is fatally flawed because of his professed theological method. He states that the discipline of systematic theology involves nothing more than the systematizing and organizing of biblical materials. One simply takes all the biblical passages about a topic, organizes them better, and, voila!, one has "systematic theology."

  This represents an absolute conflation of biblical studies, biblical theology, and systematic theology. The distinctions between these field may often be over-emphasized, but there are significant differences.

  Furthermore, Grudem doesn't follow his own method; no one could. It is impossible to move, for example, from biblical passages to a full doctrine of the Trinity without significant work being done on tradition, philosophy, religious presuppositions, etc.

  This work is real and necessary to systematic theology. No amount of simple "textual rearranging" will produce systematic theology. (That's why sytematics from different times and places always look so different).

  I am a convinced evangelical Christian, which is why I find this book to be an absolute embarrasment. The interested evangelical could certainly do better elsewhere.
  
  

• well written but...
  By A28ZN9L5P6PDKP on 2001-11-08
  The reasoning here is WEAK.

  At long last, I thought I had found it--a reliable, evenhanded systematic that still remains true to evangelical Christianity. Alas, it is not as it seemed.

  Everything was going swimmingly until page 662...then WHAM! I struck over the head by Grudem's attempt to deal with 1 Timothy 4:10 (which says that God is "the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.") Grudem's reaction reads as follows:

  "Here 'Savior' cannot be restricted in meaning to one who forgives sins and gives eternal life," because these are not given to those who do not believe; Savior must have a more general sense here, namely, "one who rescues from distress, one who delivers."

  No elaboration is given.

  If, as C.S. Lewis said, Christianity is a fighting religion (he meant intellectually--not the Crusades), then it is hard to swallow a whimpering piece of argumentation like this passage. Are we all to interpret scripture with such broad super-suppositions? We should hold out theology up to the scrutiny of the Biblical text, not the other way around.

  This particular claim (which stands unwarranted because of Grudem's lack of explanation and support) could have been given some basis if the author had taken more time on writing about it.

  As it stands, it seems an unnecessary attempt to set oneself up as gatekeeper to salvation. Strikes me as a bit pharisaical in its cool calculating discussion of those who will be damned.

  Instances like this (there are a few more) are the fly in the ointment of an otherwise likable book.
  
  

• Not your normal systematic theology
  By A22S7D0LP8GRDH on 2002-02-12
  I love this Systematic Theology. I, in general, am not a big fan of systematic theology in its commonly understood sense. Well, I better restate that. I am not a big fan of the results of systematic theology. It often makes for Christians who feel that they know everything and then begin to interpret the Bible to match their theology, instead of growing in knowledge through Bible reading and changing their theology to match the Bible. The only other systematic theology books that I have read with any amount of thoroughness would be Berkhof's and Calvin's. So I'm not claiming to be a top notch theologian. But I do want to grow to more thoroughly understand God's revealed truth in his word, and then obey it. Wayne Grudem's book is every bit as thorough as those others, maybe even more so. He takes time to explain differing views, defining which are major and minor doctrines, giving thorough histories of the different views of the issues, and then ending each of the 57 chapters with a section title "Questions for Personal Application."

  This application is what I have found extremely helpful. They questions aren't anything that you couldn't think up on your own with a little thought. It basically helps to guide you in your meditation and prayer over the Biblical truths just presented. It helps get the focus back where it should be, God. Instead of the goal being theology for theology's sake, the goal is the glory of God through a changed, obedient life, that then in turn changes other lives. A changed life, changes lives.

  I am considering using this book, even though it is 1290 pages for the small group Bible study that we have. This has been a beneficial reference to me as I have been studying.
  
  

• Theology Made Simpler
  By AAQKKZURM6BC on 2002-05-08
  I put off buying a book of systematic theology for years ... the language used in them always put me off! Grudem has the knack of writing profoundly, yet simply.

  In his book, he discusses most issues an evangelical would be interested in, and he fairly presents the views of those he disagrees with.

  I like his questions and hymns at the end of each chapter. It is also helpful that he tells you explicitly where he is coming from in his introduction.

  This book is a terrific start if you want to explore Christian theology. There is also a shorter version of the book, but I think you would be cheating yourself if you didn't buy the whole shebang. [You don't have to read it all!]

  Although I think Grudem and the Council for Biblical Manhood and Womanhood are a little astray in their views on bible translation, I am happy to enthusiastically recommend this book, which does not stray into that area.
  
  

• a few words of caution
  By A1I75RU08IYSAK on 2006-10-30
  Grudem provides a book outlining major doctines of conservative reformed theology, using the bible to justify various positions. My main criticism however is the lack of attention Grudem seems to pay to the historical and literary context of scripture, which leads at times to validation of ideas that are more a reflection of western worldviews than a Judaic / biblical ones, such as the 17th century idea that God somehow needs to punish in order to gain 'satisfaction', or the Greek idea that the body and soul are somehow seperable.
  
  For those new to theology it is also important to be aware of the significant limitations of systematic theology. While it does give a useful overview of doctrine, it does very little to explain the biblical framework. The bible in its broadest sense is a narrative of God's redemptive action in the world, and we should view the bible primarily in this way, seeking to find our place in the ongoing story. The predomninance of systematic theology at the moment seems to reflect a western mindset of wanting to compartmentalise our beliefs. But such a mindset begs the question: was God wrong to give us a book of mostly historical narrative rather than a book of doctrines or rules for living?
  
  
• Systematic proof texting
  By A2LP8LXIGZCTBM on 2003-09-16
  Wayne Grudem is often hailed as the common mans theologian. He has attempted to create and accessible and readable systematic theology. Grudems certainly achieves this, however, it is unfortunate that the book is simply bad. Its use of poor prose and systematic proof texting means that the books is an uncontrable waste of money. In Grudems attempts to render the book accessible he simply strings a long list of verses together with some rather flimsy, superficial exergesis. It has been and will continue to be a popular book within charasmatic circles due to Grudems stance on tongues, yet what ever you wish to believe about that and other controversial issues there are better books to buy.
  
  
• great book for teachers who need hard concepts spoken simply
  By ABV40MYQGPMAI on 1999-10-09
  The book is very easy to read, it is arranged (naturally) very systematically and simplifies lesson plans. The theological vocabularly is complete, yet the definitions are easily grasped.Excellent for teachers who are attempting to lay a firm foundation in the life of new and not-so-new believers. Spiritually probing and enlightening..brings new thoughts to the mature Christian. Study questions at the end of chapters are excellent, thought provoking.
  
  
• Valuable but flawed exposition of reformed theology
  By AMMEMPM9MPS55 on 2001-02-18
  Grudem's book provides a decent exposition of standard reformed doctrine, and he has the credentials of being a convinced charismatic, and so his sections on the gifts of the Holy Spirit are an invaluable addition lacking in most systematic theologies. He provides some very basic, though useful, defences of traditional evangelical theology.

  On the other hand, Grudem's work is flawed by its overly scientific-rational approach to theology and doctrine. His treatment of the authority of the Scriptures, for example, is unconvincing in many of the details, eg. inerrancy etc. Evangelical theology, to be taken seriously, must move away from the 'prooftexting' approach, and interact on a more substantial level with some of the real challenges presented by alternative theological and philosophical understandings of Scripture which have equally been established out of a high regard and respect for the Bible.
  
  

• I was very disappointed in the book.
  By on 1998-06-25
  Grudem's Systematic Theology is current and mentions contemorary names such as Bill Clinton, John Wimber, etc. There are too many problems to list in a brief review such as this. My main concern is that he is anti-dispensational, believes in the special creation of the soul at conception, espouses a strong Calvinistic position and leans heavily into Charismaticism. There are many more problems, but these are my main concerns. For those looking for a good biblical theology, go through Grudem carefully with both eyes open.
  
  
• This book gave me the insight to escape a damaging situation
  By on 1999-06-01
  I had served at a non-denominational church faithfully for 12 years. The church grew from 30 persons to well over 1500 in just 10 years. However, much of the growth centered around the government and control of one charismatic leader, and through time it became a very controlling and manipulative environment. The laity was kept in a state of spiritual adolesence. Though I had numerous troubling thoughts and opinions about the way things were going, it wasn't until I read this books chapters on government and the purity of the church that the lights went off, from a purely biblical perspective. I made the very painful decision to leave the church, and although the process was tough, my family is now growing stronger than ever with our newfound love of scripture and of Christ. God used this book to save us from many griefs that come through scriptural naviety.
  
  
• A Spiritual Systematic Theology
  By ASO7RFPO3JMWM on 2003-09-17
  I read Grudem's work in conjunction with Millard Erickson's similar work. Grudem is a little simpler read than Erickson, although at times he will require the reader to think hard, especially concerning salvation. Grudem comes from a post-tribulational, charismatic-calvinist bent.

  The work is unashamedly evangelical, although Grudem will at times express his indebtedness to non-evangelical theologians. Most evangelicals will agree with him on the doctrines of God, Bible, and creation. The points of difference for evangelicals will be salvation (many good argumetns from many positions), the authority within the church, and the millenium. This book differs from other theologies at the end of each chapter. Grudem offers study questions, memory verses, hymns, and a bibliography for furthter study.

  I found that Grudem's most well argued sections were :salvation, Providence, modern day gifts (for which i remain unconvinced), and the millennium (also unconvinced). His logic for the most part is impeccable. I read this book alongside Erickson and Calvin and found it most helpful. It is well worth the price.
  
  

• Very enjoyable for theology lovers.
  By A3JPKAJGGUPUKP on 2004-07-10
  This book is nicely laid out. After the coverage of a subject in each chapter, it has sections at the end of each chapter entitled: "questions for personal application "; "special terms"; "bibliography"; "sections in evangelical systematic theologies" (cross-reference with other systematic theologies); and "hymn."

  This book is subtitled, "An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine," and even though it has 1290 pages, it cannot cover its subjects comprehensively. It does serve as an excellent introduction to various topics though. It addresses most of the main arguments for both sides, although I find that at times, Grudem dismisses counter-arguments a bit too quickly. While he does well to concisely rebut some opposing viewpoints, but I have found a few places where his rebuttal -- while probably solid -- does nothing to answer against a position somewhere between his own and the discussed opposing viewpoint.

  I would recommend this book to anyone interested in getting an overview of theology, but I would always recommend that in theological debates, one always examine at least two opposing authors. Grudem presents opposing viewpoints nicely, but he can only speak for his opponents to a limited extent. You can look up some varying viewpoints on practically any doctrine on the Internet, and I recommend that you do so.
  
  

• The Standard Evangelical Calvinist Systematic Theology
  By A25AMBAAZLNTQT on 2005-07-31
  After ten years on the market, Professor Wayne Grudem's "Systematic Theology" has become something of the standard text for Calvinist Evangelicals. And with good reason.
  
  Grudem writes with clarity and creativity--two rather rare components in systematic theology texts. He begins each chapter with questions that assist readers to see the relevance of the topic to their lives. He then ends each chapter questions for personal application--showing how truth relates to life.
  
  Grudem, though strong in his scriptural support and defense of his views, avoids a critical spirit toward those with whom he disagrees. Thus his writing is theologically founded and relationally inviting.
  
  One might wish for more development and discussion of opposing views. Additional exegesis of the core texts that support the views presented also would improve an already fine book. However, it would also add to the length of an already hefty volume.
  
  For a one-volume systematic theology from an evangelical perspective that is written with relevance to every day life, you really can't do better than Grudem.
  
  Reviewer: Robert W. Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of "Soul Physicians: A Theology of Soul Care and Spiritual Direction," "Spiritual Friends: A Methodology of Soul Care and Spiritual Direction," and the forthcoming "Sacred Companions: The Story of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction."
  
  
  
• Easily accessible and simply written
  By A2W0W4QSSBRQOL on 2006-02-01
  Easily accessible and simply written, this massive book is a sure benefit to all who read its pages. It's highly parsed and somewhat atomistic individualism between chapters almost creates an atmosphere of an encyclopedia rather than a truly systematic theology, which has both its benefits and its drawbacks. This book was a required textbook for a basic bibliology/theology proper class I took, and was an excellent discussion piece.
  
  Undoubtedly most of the reviewers here are guided to review Grudem's book either in support of or in opposition to his Reformed (Calvinist) positions. But, what Grudem does really transcends labeling him "Reformed," (though one shouldn't mistake thinking of him as not-Reformed either, for he is a staunch defender of Calvin's thought) For the most part he gives fair and adequate treatment to opposing views, while nonetheless systematically adressing them within the framework of his operations (I applaud Grudem for not giving special attention to traditional Calvinism's "five point" system of the TULIP, though each letter of the acrostic is adressed when it is specifically applicable. Further, it is noteworthy that Grudem, while a Calvinist, does not set his system as the primary reference point, but rather gives a biblical summary of the data then proceeds to link the pieces.) Particularly interesting I thought was his incredibly detailed explanations of the Genesis account and his take on the literalist interpretation of "Yom" meaning day, vs the more contemporary interpretation of "ages," or "eons."
  
  Other sections I found helpful were Grudem's explanations of the Calvinist understanding of "double election" (though Grudem dislikes calling it that, and sticks with election, rebrobation, and preterition), predestination and free will (Grudem being a compatibalist, though again he hesitates to use the word, both because he desires to avoid overly technical essays, but also because such a word is pregnant with superfluous and pejorative connotations Grudem understandly wants to avoid) and Providence.
  
  Other excellent sections include Grudem's expositions of Spiritual Gifts (see also Are Spiritual Gifts For Today? A book of point-counterpoint edited by Grudem) Governmental theories of church organization (Catholic, episcopalian, presbyterian, etc...)
  
  Any review of this book that in itself does not qualify as a book, will undoubtedly be insufficient to give a comparative account of epic nature of this entire undertaking. One can hardly fathom the work it took to create such a tome, and so one hesitates to criticize. Nonetheless there are several issues I feel that are either inadequate, or simply unfortunate.
  
  First I found that Grudem, being a theologian and not a scientist, to be somewhat unconvincing during his critique of modern scientific theories of evolution (though he does bring up some good points.) Anytime a non-scientifically trained evangelical comes out with a defense against evolution I cringe because the systems they attack have a tendency to be so severly truncated from the actual complexities of the scientific understanding, that it is somewhat comical to see this interaction. One has to have a pretty staunch grip on Christianity to take Grudems critiques seriously (which is not necessarily a problem, as one must activate a plethora of assumptions to undergird a so called "objectivist," scientific approach.)
  
  My second problem with Grudem's book is not on a particular point, but in general Grudem does not dialogue with any of the so called "Liberal," (or even "post-Liberal,") theologians (ala Barth, Bultmann) and hardly has any dialogues with excellent non-evangelical theologians (Pannenberg, Robert Jenson, Colin Gunton, John Ziziolos, Stanly Grenz, Miroslav Volf, etc...) nor even does Grudem interact with many post-conservative evangelicals like Kevin Vanhoozer (one of the best, if not the best, current theologian out there, evangelical or not). Grudem goes so far to state in the introduction that Liberals have not added anything to theology that their conservative contemporaries have not already seen or written. While this may or may not be true, the mere fact that Grudem uses this as an excuse to not interact with other liberal or non-evangelical thinkers is somewhat questionable. That said, Grudem does provide a helpful bibliography of non-evangelical thinkers (Wesleyan, Catholic, Pentecostal, etc...) but again these thinkers listed fall fairly broadly into the conservative category. While there is nothing wrong with conservativism, it does seem to be its inherent tendency to be merely reactional (and by reactional, I mean generally xenophobic and agressive when it comes to other theories)
  
  Third, Grudem deals very sparsely with any type of philosophical or historical exposition on doctrine, and seems to simply assume his current explanations are born from purely rational inquiry into the text of the bible, when clearly Calvinism, as much as Arminianism (or Pentecostal/Charismatic or any other system), has a detailed historical background that would help illuminate why certain assumptions are made.
  
  Fourth, and finally, in light of the enormity of todays theological emphasis on systems stemming specifically from a trinitarian monotheism, Grudem has a sparse and cliche chapter on the Trinity, and indeed falls under Karl Rahner's criticism of treating De Deo Uno (the One God) seperately from De Deo Trino (the Triune God). So, despite Grudems many references to the Trinity (both implicit and explicit) he seems to maintain a traditional understanding of the Trinity, and for the most part, especially in upholding Calvinist expectations for predestination, election, government, providence, etc...assumes a monadic emanation or force that is uni-directional (though compatibilist) in working in our history. He doesn't seem to take seriously trinitarian participation and how that would affect our understandings of the rest of theology (for example, see the excellent works by Colin Gunton: The One, The Three, and The Many, also The Promise of Trinitarian Theology; and Robert Jenson's two volume Systematic Theology, and his earlier work The Triune Identity; John Zizioulas' seminal essay Being and Communion; Wolfhart Pannenberg's three volume Systematic Theology (especially the first); Stanly Grenz's Social God and the Relational Self; Miroslav Volf's After Our Likeness: The Church as the Image of the Trinity; Kevin Vanhoozer's First THeology: God Scripture and Hermeneutics, and his most recent work The Drama of Doctrine; etc...)
  
  Thus, overall, I would recommend this book for anyone looking for a textbook-like exposition on Christian doctrine that has numerous excellent insights and commentaries on the Word of God. This book is an amazing achievement and serves its purpose well. However, anyone looking for seminary and doctoral level systematic theologies should look elsewhere, as this book deals little with philosophy, historical theology, or post-modern theological themes.
  
  
• A Systematic Theology from a Charismatic Calvanist!
  By on 1999-06-16
  Finally! You CAN be a Calvanist AND a Charismatic (notice I didn't say "Pentacostalist") at the same time and not have to apologize for it.

  Here's a great systematic theology in readable English. It's humerous that it comes from a prof who teaches at a seminary run by a denomination that doesn't have a systematic approach to theology!

  Definately worth every penny and more.
  
  

• Review of Grudem's Systematic Theology
  By A2Q4P2G08QZC03 on 2001-01-29
  Systematic Theology by Wayne Grudem (Zondervan, 1994) It would be difficult to write a systematic theology which makes a significant contribution to this field of study. I'm not sure that Grudem's does, but there are some things about it that are different. He takes effort to be doxological, and that is refreshing. He writes clearly and concisely, and that is somewhat unusual. He covers a wider range of subjects than most. And besides all that, he is a calvinist with other theological distinctives which I share and appreciate. The work seems to be designed for undergraduate level -- this is not a criticism, but I was expecting something more advanced. It shows virtually nothing of historical theology. And he spends relatively little time doing exegesis -- too often it's the "make a statement and put a verse reference in parenthesis" mode. Good, but not very thoroughly exegetically grounded. I guess Grudem opted for the wider rather than deeper idea (over 1,200 pages), and there is something to be said for that. But other than that, I don't think he has made a significant contribution. Finally, Grudem shows an odd set of priorities sometimes -- for example: 8 pages on regeneration, 12 or so pages each on justification and union with Christ, and barely over 4 pages on hell (especially striking, given the popular rejection of hell among evangelical theologians today) --yet more space than any of this is given to his unusual view of prophecy and to the continuation of the miraculous gifts. Overall, this book is enjoyable and interesting reading, and it is helpful in many ways. Grudem will strike you as a genuine and a sincere Christian who wants theology to be appreciated by all. It is a good book, and I like it overall -- despite the few areas of disagreement. I think it will have some general use especially among laymen and undergraduate doctrines students. And there is something to be said for the wider range of subject material in a single volume. A pastor friend says he's reading through it for his devotions and loving it -- a great idea!
  
  
• THEOLOGY 101 is COOL!
  By AOUA19ALH6PL2 on 2003-04-08
  I took several classes with Dr. Grudem, and he is an excellent professor. This book was one of the first theology books that I owned and come to use as a regular referance for theological questions.
  For the seminary student a definite MUST HAVE, even if you don't agree with all his views.
  For the new Christian a definite MUST HAVE, because you need to understand why the Bible teaches what it teaches. Don't get your "Bible education" only from the pulpit.
  For the Adult learner a definite MUST HAVE, because you can never learn too much! An older adult friend of mine enjoyed reading this book. She was so surprised to find out that people have written about basic theological ideas in one volume.
  For the Bible study teacher a definite MUST HAVE, because your students will ask the deepest questions at the most unusal times. This is the best source to guide your discussions.
  One more thing I love about this book. After each chapter he gives a HYMN that relates to the theological topic he has just discussed. This makes so much sense! Why? Because musical lyrics and music reinforce ideas that we believe and feel strongly about. I use to love that Dr. Grudem would make us sing a hymn before class started. One of my most favorite memories is singing an Easter hymn in class.
  
  

• The Mosaic of Christian Belief: Twenty Centuries of Unity & Diversity
• Christian Beliefs: Twenty Basics Every Christian Should Know
• Knowing God
• The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism
• Christian Theology