C.H.E. Sadaphal's Blog, page 27

ON THE NEW TESTAMENT by MARK DRISCOLL

4.5 of 5 The bottom line: An excellent introduction to the New Testament basics with some extra theological lessons as an added bonus.   On the New Testament is the second book in the Testament series by Mark Driscoll. Basically,…Read more ›

SYNCRETISM

The New Oxford American Dictionary defines syncretism as “the amalgamation or attempted amalgamation of different religions, cultures, or schools of thought.” As a result, syncretism becomes one of the most dangerous words in the entire English language as it pertains…Read more ›

ON THE OLD TESTAMENT by MARK DRISCOLL

**** (of 5) The bottom line: A brief, concise introduction to the Old Testament that answers many common questions and provides a path for future study.   On the Old Testament can be thought of as a starter kit for…Read more ›

THE CRUSADE AGAINST ISIS

While reading the New York Times the other day, I came across a very disturbing advertisement written by the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights (click for greater clarity): Ironically, a faith-based organization is calling for a “just war”…Read more ›

LUKE INTERPRETATION by FRED B. CRADDOCK

 4.5 of 5 The bottom line: Another extraordinary volume in the Interpretation series and a masterful analysis of one of the Synoptics. A notable go-to resource when preaching or teaching lessons.   Luke Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and…Read more ›

COVENANT

How does the ancient concept of a covenant triumph over the modern formulation of a contract? Contracts are based on mutual distrust and typically stipulate expected responsibilities as well as penalties for deviation from the desired behavior. Take, for instance,…Read more ›

RAY RICE, ADRIAN PETERSON, AND THE MORAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Considering the recent reports about NFL players involved in cases of domestic violence and child abuse coming to light, it compels me to comment on several variables. And, it goes without saying, abuse in any context is always deplorable. (1)…Read more ›

PRACTICAL THEOLOGY by RICHARD R. OSMER

4.5 of 5 The bottom line: A book that delivers on how to execute theological principles in real-life scenarios.   Practical Theology offers exactly what the title states—real-life, functional ways to apply what one has learned about theoretical theology and…Read more ›

RESPONSIBILITY

In The Responsible Self by H. R. Niebuhr, the author develops a moral philosophy based not upon rigid rules or prescriptions but instead a flexible algorithm developed by answering two sequential questions: (1) “What is happening?” and (2) “What should…Read more ›

WRITING THEOLOGY WELL by LUCRETIA B. YAGHJIAN

*** (of 5) The bottom line: A guide that successfully illustrates how to write theology well, but also devotes significant space to the very basics.   Writing Theology Well certainly will equip you with the tools needed to write like…Read more ›