History of Christian Theology: An Introduction

I bought this book several years ago and just now picked it up. When I started it, I did not know that I would like it as much as I did. I read this book in a mere 6 days. The most wonderful aspect of this book is that it is a true introduction. The task of writing a history of Christian Theology is a monumental task but to do it in 400 pages is even more monumental. However, Placher did this very well in this book. This book hits the high points and gives a brief overview of the subject. This is what I was looking for in an introductory book. The other aspect of the book that I really liked was the list of other sources that are listed at the end of each chapter regarding the subject of the chapter. Placher also breaks down these sources as introductory sources and more difficult sources. This book gave me a good overview of Christian Theology and that is what I was looking for before I went into more depth with the subject. If you are looking for a very good introduction to Christian Theology, then I recommend this book. If you are not sure that you are interested in Christian Theology but are looking for a good, quick read to test the waters, then this is the book for you. If you are a student of Christian Theology, then this is not a book for you since it is just an introduction. This book reads well and quickly. The topics in the chapters are the highlights of Christian Theology over time. It maintains is pace and level of writing thoughtout the whole book. I look forward to reading more of Placher's books.

Placher's book served as primary text in two of my undergrad courses, helping make theology both accessible and affordable. As he goes through the eras, one can find evidence of his sense of humor throughout the pages (i.e. "an iota of difference" when discussing Greek translations) while seriously addressing the major points throughout the history of Christianity. As a religion minor, this book was invaluable in starting my deeper investigation into Christian theology and an excellent "index of the ages" for finding primary resources on topics for higher-level classes. For those wanting to get more in-depth, Placher also has two collections of readings that correspond to various topics covered in this book, which are designed to complement this text. They're definitely worth the investment for the serious scholar or the budding theologian and have been used as textbook in both preparatory and collegiate courses due to their accessibility and comprehensiveness.

This book was an absolute lifesaver as I prepared for my graduate school exams. As I read more detailed works of theology, I would constantly return to this book for context. Placher deals with the most complex points of theology and makes them crystal clear. The chapters are short and to the point. I think I have read the chapters on the Trinitarian and Christological controversies 10 times. This book is highly recommended.

Placher offers an excellent overview of the History of Christian Theology in this volume. His writing is lively, and he offers concrete examples for abstract philosophical and theological concepts. This is an excellent text to use for an undergraduate level survey course in historical theology.

Placher has done a wonderful job of delivering on a whole host of ideas. He has made some very complicated ideas much more accessible than many authors. He writes in a captivating way that is almost like reading a story than a textbook presenting ideas. From the influence of Greek philosophy to the "End of Christendom", he touches on many key ideas in a way that makes you want to read more. He is clear and at times puts in a bit of his own opinion in an educated manner. This is still just an introduction, since you cannot be comprehansive in so few pages. But he brilliantly solves this problem by giving a very good bibliography at the end of each chapter. Moreover, he has a basic and advanced bibliography for each which helps you decide how "deep" you want to get into a subject. It is unfortuante that some of the books are out of date. I highly recommend this for any theological student.