Faithful Friday: Across the Spectrum

Can you tell that I really enjoy reading theology books? 😀 Across the Spectrum is one of the most helpful books I've found in helping me to understand the different viewpoints of Christians on all manner of topics. Now in its third edition, I think this volume is still one of the most concise yet dense books out there that lays out the arguments for opposing sides along with objections for each stance. The authors cover everything from Calvinism and Arminianism to charismatic gifts to women in ministry and beyond, so there is no shortage of opposing views. I would say this book is an introduction to understanding these debated matters, but with enough information to get readers started if there is a topic that is weighing heavily on their heart.

I appreciate that this book not only exposes me to other theological understandings, but it also shows the issues that my own understanding might pose. This was a textbook for one of my theology classes where the professor had students choose the side that they believed, and then have us argue in favour of the opposing side. It was certainly eye-opening to convince others of doctrine I either disagreed with or was unfamiliar with at the time! As a result of this exercise, I haven't held onto non-essential doctrines as tightly as I might have, which has given me the opportunity to learn from Christians of various denominations. If anything, this book reveals all that we don't know about the workings of God, but that we have much to look forward to in eternity when we encounter God and the full body of believers.

In sharing older theology books (this copy is 22 years old!), one of the things I've had to be careful about is that sometimes, the theologian may have changed their stance on particular issues or is now teaching something quite different. I've been saddened to hear of some theologians who are walking away from the faith, so if I ever highlight a book and that has happened to the author, please let me know. I didn't come across anything like that for these authors in my research, but I'm also open to blind spots.

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