Learning Theology with the Church Fathers

by Christopher A. Hall

Overview

The early church fathers were great theologians—though they did not think of themselves as such. They were working pastors, involved in the daily life and leadership of their congregations. Yet they were wrestling with many of the great and formative questions of the Christian faith, such as the Trinity, the incarnation, the providence of God and the nature of the church. These beliefs were defined in the crucible of spiritual leadership, pastoral care and theological conflict, all set against the background of the great cultural movements and events of their day. For the church fathers, theology was a spiritual exercise woven into the texture of life. What would it be like to sit under the preaching and instruction of these great men, to look over their shoulders as they thought and wrote, or to hear them debate theological issues? Learning Theology with the Church Fathers offers us that experience. With the same insight and love of his subject that he brought to Reading Scripture with the Church Fathers, Christopher A. Hall opens the door on patristic theology. Focusing on the great questions, we view these issues in their settings and find greater appreciation for the foundations and architecture of our Christian faith.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780830826865
Publisher:	InterVarsity Press
Publication date:	08/16/2002
Pages:	308
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.25(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Christopher A. Hall is chancellor of Eastern University in St. Davids, Pennsylvania. He previously served as dean of the Templeton Honors College at Eastern. In addition, he is associate editor of the Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture.

Table of Contents

Preface
1. Preparing to Learn Theology with the Church Fathers
2. Christ the Son, Begotten and Not Made
3. The Mystery and Wonder of the Trinity
4. Christ Divine and Human
5. On the Holy Spirit
6. Sin, Grace and the Human Condition
7. God's Transcendent Providence
8. God's Wise and Loving Providence
9. The Sacred Scriptures
10. One Holy, Apostolic Church
11. The Resurrection of the Body and Life Everlasting
Notes
General Index
Scripture Index