Beyond the Book with Dr. Akin: “A Handbook of Theology”

In the following Q&A, Akin takes the time to answer a few questions about this new handbook:

What is the book about?

This book is a complement to “A Theology for the Church.” Thus, it addresses biblical, historical, and systematic theology. It contains articles that survey the classic categories of theology in a more concise manner.

Who is the target audience?

Pastors and students of theology are the primary audience. However, anyone can benefit from the excellent articles by this outstanding group of evangelical scholars.

What motivated you to co-edit and contribute to the book?

I was approached by my friend David Dockery. I liked the concept and thought it could make a valuable contribution to evangelical theology. After finishing the project, I am convinced it does. It was an honor to write the article on the person of Christ (Christology).

What concerns or encourages you the most about the current state of Baptist theology and of evangelical theology more broadly?

In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in historic Baptist theology, which is very encouraging to see. We need to know our historical roots.

In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in historic Baptist theology, which is very encouraging to see. We need to know our historical roots.

Evangelical theology began making significant contributions to the theology of the Church in the latter part of the twentieth century. That has only increased and expanded in the twenty-first century. It needs to continue.

What is the value of taking time to survey the broader landscape of theology?

The Church often needs more generalists than specialists, though we obviously need both. This is especially true for those who lead our churches.

What is unique or particularly helpful about this volume?

Some of its distinctives are the specific and important articles that are addressed and the length of its treatment on key theological topics.

How does “A Handbook of Theology” equip readers to serve the Church and fulfill the Great Commission?

Fulfilling the Great Commission involves teaching disciples to observe all that Jesus has commanded. It involves fulfilling the Great Commandment to love God with our hearts and minds. The handbook gives attention to the life of the mind, which is more crucial than ever in an increasingly secular world devoid of faithful Christian thinking.

Fulfilling the Great Commission involves teaching disciples to observe all that Jesus has commanded. It involves fulfilling the Great Commandment to love God with our hearts and minds.

How has a lifetime of theological study and your contributions to this volume shaped you spiritually?

I was made aware once again of how important it is to love God well with our minds and to think well in biblical and distinctively Christian categories.