Doctrine: What Christians Should Believe

I am very thankful for this book and it's authors, Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears. In my experience, for many Christians the idea of studying doctrine is something that is done in the world of academia and is not something the average Christian needs to concern themselves with. Many books on doctrine that are available to Christians are very large and daunting works that seem to intimidate readers more than they invite. This book is a rare treat due to it's relatively short length (in comparison to books on Systematic Theology for example) and how it's written in such a way that someone with no prior experience in studying theology can drive right in and not be lost. This is a perfect book for new Christians who want a solid grounding in their faith or for any Christian who wants to grow deeper in their understanding of biblical truths. For Christians, theology matters as it gives us the foundation upon which to understand God, how He relates to us and how we are then to live in light of His revelation. This book is a very helpful guide to get Christians grounded in historic and orthodox Christian beliefs and understandings.

I found the website of Mars Hill Church in Seattle about a year or so ago, and I have been downloading and listening to Pastor Mark's sermons ever since. This book is written in a conversational tone, much how Mark preaches. Clear, understandable, seasoned with humor, not to mention well researched and documented. The sheer amount of footnotes (both Bible references and other sources) puts this book on an academic level, yet it also contains many practical insights on living in a Christ-like manner. I've tried several times to get through other theology texts such as Essentials of Evangelical Theology, but have lost interest quickly due to the dryness of the reading material. On the other hand, I have had to force myself to put Doctrine down on several occasions. Cheers to both Mark and Gerry on a job well done.

This book has kept me very interested! There are several things discussed most Christians take for granted. The book is NOT one sided on issues that are more open to the basic Christian's salvation. For example, when discussing the creation story of the Bible, several view points (options or beliefs) were given. This book has not only helped me understand Christian theology better, it has also given enough information about those ideas that would oppose Christianity, for a better understanding of both sides. I would suggest this book to ANY Christian to read. Read it with an open mind and pray to God to reveal Himself to you . . . and enjoy!

I am not a product of seminary or advanced theological training. Rather, just a guy trying to learn so I can better lead a small group in studying and applying God's Word to our lives. I've found Mark Driscoll's leadership in the church and passion for Jesus to be both powerful and refreshing...in a time where we have largely strayed and really need the truth preached! I appreciate Driscoll and Breshears for many reasons. However, the one aspect of their ministry that stands out is the way that they communicate Jesus, the gospel, and application of the truth to life today. There is no sugar coating. Simply put, they are real. Driscoll and Breshears are steadfast in conservative theology in a time when many have skewed Christianity to fit their lifestyle, as opposed to allowing that Jesus adjust them! Nevertheless, they still communicate in a way that strikes a cord with all backgrounds, ages, etc... Doctrine is substantial and well-executed, while also remaining easy to understand and follow for all the theological lightweights like myself. Oh, and did I mention the footnotes? Research, homework, due diligence...done. Great resource. Great men of God.

Christians are called to know, appreciate, and dispense the crucial doctrines of the biblical faith. Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears have stepped up and endowed the church with a modern and simple presentation of the most important doctrinal teachings of the Christian religion. The authors previously published the "Vintage Jesus" and in this new volume they help make theology appealing in their straightforward writing style. Pastor Driscoll (Mars Hill) and Breshears (professor of theology Western Seminary) combine to bestow this volume to Christians whereby this very readable book instructs the reader in the most basic truths of Christianity. Yes this is not Berkoff, Grudem, or Reymond, but the authors approach theology from a Reformed position as they present doctrines concerning: - Who God is - How God speaks - How God loves - How God saves - And much more I came to this book because of the strong endorsement from John Frame and this work is excellent for the new believer, teens, busy housewives, and others who want to learn the basic doctrines of the Christian faith in a non-technical manner. Effective, exceptional, simple, educational, and edifying. God Does Exist!: Defending the faith using presuppositional apologetics, evidence, and the impossibility of the contrary