Essential Theology

Cutting through the controversies and doctrinal debates, two trusted Dallas Theological Seminary professors offer a practical, foundational handbook on the basics of Christian theology—and why it matters to everyday life. From humanity and sin to the Trinity to the end times, Svigel and Holsteen show why these topics matter and how you can apply them to your life every day.

L. Michael Morales examines the key elements of three major redemption movements in Scripture: the exodus out of Egypt, the second exodus foretold by the prophets, and the new exodus accomplished by Jesus Christ. We discover how the blood of a Passover lamb helps us grasp the significance of Jesus' death on the cross, how the Lord's defeat of Pharaoh foreshadowed Jesus' victory over Satan, how Israel's exodus out of Egypt unfolds the meaning of the resurrection, and much more.

Easily the most important advance in Judeo-Christian relations in 100 years, Commonwealth Theology (CT) cuts across denominational divisions to reveal God’s plan for the Church and the Jews. CT is based on a more literal interpretation of the Scriptures. Interpretations have, since the 2nd century, been influenced by man’s philosophy and politics. Beyond the basics of Christian salvation, mainstream theologies are at odds. Catholic, Reform, and Evangelical interpretations of Bible prophecy don’t agree because they have all overlooked the obvious. Is it possible that the truth has been...

Through accessible insights, The Earth Will Be Filled explores how the theme of glory can deepen your understanding of Scripture, offering you a meaningful way to reflect on God's majesty and presence. This book is an invitation to immerse yourself in the awe of God's glory. Step into the richness and wonder of God's glory with The Earth Will Be Filled, and discover how glory permeates Scripture and invites us into a life-transforming response.

In The Essential Criteria of Dispensational Theology for the Professional and Layperson, Pastor Theodore Pestor guides listeners into a clear, organized, and meaningful understanding of this foundational doctrine. With decades of study, teaching, and pastoral experience, Pastor Pestor presents Dispensational Theology not as a scholarly abstraction, but as a living framework that reveals the beauty, unity, and continuity of God’s plan of redemption.

For those who yearn for a deeper walk in faith, their journey can begin here. Dr. Sproul takes theology down off of the dusty shelves of theological libraries and expounds in clear and simple terms over one hundred major Christian doctrines. He offers listeners a basic understanding of the Christian faith that will kindle a lifelong love for truth, which is foundational to maturity in Christ.

Unlock the secrets of an ancient faith with "The Zend Avesta: A Beginner's Guide: The Essentials of Zoroastrian Theology." This captivating guide offers a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the profound teachings and rich heritage of Zoroastrianism. Perfect for both newcomers and those seeking a deeper understanding, this book illuminates the core principles that have shaped one of the world’s oldest religions. Delve into Dualism: Discover the fundamental battle between Ahura Mazda, the god of light and wisdom, and Angra Mainyu, the spirit of darkness and chaos. Understand how ...

The study of Bible prophecy can seem complicated or controversial, yet Christians still long to understand what God’s Word reveals about the future. Whenever authors Amir Tsarfati and Barry Stagner teach on the end times, the most popular part of their ministry is the question-and-answer session, revealing the church’s great hunger to know more about the last days. In Bible Prophecy: The Essentials, Amir and Barry pool their knowledge to answer some of their most commonly asked questions.

The Essential Talmud is a masterful introduction by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz to the great repository of Jewish wisdom, the Talmud. A book of profound scholarship and concise pedagogy, The Essential Talmud succinctly describes the Talmud's history, structure, and methodology. It summarizes the Talmud's main principles, demonstrates its contemporary relevance, and captures the spirit of this unique and paradoxical sacred text as a human expression of divine law.

The last command Jesus gave the church before he ascended to heaven was the Great Commission, the call for Christians to "make disciples of all the nations.

"But Christians have responded by making "Christians", not "disciples". This, according to brilliant scholar and renowned Christian thinker Dallas Willard, has been the church's Great Omission.

Walking the Way of the Wise is a profound exploration into the depths of biblical wisdom, seamlessly blending scholarly insight with practical guidance. In this latest addition to IVP Academic's Essential Studies in Biblical Theology (ESBT) series, Mitchell Chase invites listeners to rediscover wisdom as an essential thread woven throughout the tapestry of Scripture. Chase unveils wisdom not merely as knowledge or cleverness but as a life-giving path of joyful obedience to God's Word.

St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most venerated Christian figures, and his profound teachings, deep love of nature, and commitment to simplicity have resonated with generations of followers. St. Francis of Assisi, a title in the Essential Wisdom Library, offers a simple and universal introduction to Francis' life, his key teachings, and the spiritual practices that enriched his faith and the lives of those who follow his legacy.

Two hundred and fifty years later, Jonathan Edwards, America’s consummate pastor-theologian, continues to capture the attention of Christians around the world. Yet Edwards left us over 1,200 sermons and thousands of pages of other publications, not to mention the literal thousands of books that have been written about Edwards since he died. The Essential Jonathan Edwards serves as a perfect introduction to Edwards’s life and thought. It explores Edwards day-to-day life, and his views on beauty, true Christianity, heaven and hell, and the good life.

Know why you believe. Pass on what you've experienced. Many Christians are unsure about what they believe and why. They may wonder if their faith is meaningful and credible. Because of this, they struggle with passing on a relevant Christianity to their families and friends. That’s why Josh McDowell and his son, Sean, have created this comprehensive yet easy-to-understand handbook.

In this winsome book, best-selling author John S. Dickerson clearly and faithfully explains essential Christian beliefs, using simple stories that have resonated with his congregation of thousands. He guides listeners into these basic beliefs, and most importantly, he illustrates why these beliefs matter.

There's no better time than now to start researching the end-time events foretold in the Bible and examining how they align with what's happening today. But how can a beginner approach the vast and sometimes puzzling study of Bible prophecy without feeling overwhelmed? Written primarily for curious newcomers, Basic Bible Prophecy is a straightforward, no-frills breakdown of what you need to know about the future. Best-selling prophecy author Ron Rhodes provides a big-picture overview of the essential facts about Bible prophecy.

To discover the presence of God throughout the cosmos and in our everyday lives, Daniel C. Matt draws on both science and theology, both fact and belief, and both cosmology and Jewish mysticism, taking us on a deeply personal, thoughtful, and inspiring journey. This update of the award-winning first edition gives us a fresh look at the growing topic of science and spirituality, helps us find our place in the universe, and reveals to us how the universe is reflected in our very being.

Essentials of the Islamic Faith is a selection from some of the speeches M. Fethullah Gülen has given to large audiences over a life-time of dedicated service. In these speeches, he explains the principal elements of Islamic belief - belief in the existence and unity of God; in resurrection and the day of judgment; in divine scriptures and other familiar themes of Islamic discourse.

Perhaps no one else has ever faced as much hardship, opposition, or relentless suffering as the apostle Paul. And yet, through it all, Paul stood firm in Christ and remained faithful - to the very end. The power of Paul's example has captivated veteran Pastor John MacArthur for years, and here, he outlines nine unwavering convictions that contributed to this remarkable perseverance.

"Do you believe in God?" is usually a straightforward question to answer. "What do you believe about God?" is harder! The Bible uses narratives, laws, songs, prophecies, proverbs, and letters to tell us about God, and this book highlights mainstream evangelical systematic theology derived from its teachings. Take an opportunity to learn what doctrines the Spirit-led body of Christ has emphasized over the centuries—and become better equipped in your understanding of God and Scripture.