Christian Theology: An Eschatological Approach

by Thomas N. Finger

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• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0840775059
• ISBN13: 9780840775054
• Release Date: January 1985
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson
• Length: 367 Pages
• Weight: 1.54 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Well-rounded systematic in dialogue with many traditions

This systematic theology is unique in several respects. First, the fact that an Anabaptist/Mennonite theologian would choose to write a systematic is a rare thing indeed. It signifies a willingness both to engage the wider theological community in sustained reflection, as well as a desire to present specifically Anabaptist insights to that community. Secondly, as the subtitle suggests, it presents an approach to theology in which eschatology is central, though not a Hal Lindsay end-times view that would have the reader constantly scan the days Middle East headlines to discover the return of Jesus. Finger attempts a synthetic engagement with many traditions - Roman Catholicism, Feminist and Liberation theologies, reformed and Baptist, neo-Orthodox and classical liberal. (Not an exhaustive list) He has a high view of Scriptural inspiration - elucidating a concept of "total truthfulness" rather than infallability - but is far from a fundamentalist. I especially appreciated the influence of Eastern Orthodox/Patristic spirituality on his theology. He speaks at length of "divinization", union with God in Christ, and brings in the influence of Irenaeus and kindred thinkers to a degree not found in most evangelical-oriented theologies. The author considers this book to be an introductory text. I would call it an intermediate text. He intends both to present his own views and to open the door for readers to important theological movements and thinkers throughout history. Most sections also have detailed engagement with biblical texts.All in all, well rounded and balanced. A fairly conservative theology, but even for those to whom this does not appeal, the 2 volumes are generally open-minded and even-handed in their treatment of various theological movements, and serve well as a broad overview of biblical and historical theology, as well as presenting the author's own views.