Evangelical Theology: An Introduction

I have the Audible version of this book. Along with the Humanity of God, It's a useful book to read (or hear) before tackling the Church Dogmatics. It covers most of the basic themes of Barth's theology in his own words. Highly recommended.

In this series of lectures, Barth outlines what it means to do theology. He begins by outlining four components of the context of theology. He then treats four characteristics of a theologian. After that, four threats to theology are listed. Finally, four essential components of theological work are listed. Central to the work are Spirit, faith, hope, and love, the final components of each section. As one would expect, central elements of Barthian theology are present. The Word of God and the community of faith are central to the theological endeavor. God is the ultimate object of theology, rather than humanity. This is an excellent introduction to Barth. It is also a good way to begin theological exploration.

Among 20th century theologians, Barth is arguably without peer. Here we have a beautiful introduction written in his later years to Barth's entire theological output. If one were serious about beginning to read Barth, there is no better book through which one could enter into his thought. A very helpful book for those interested in what Barth has to say about the nature and purpose of theology. A treasure.

The book, which was originally a lecture-series, begins with a definition of what "evangelical" theology is. From this point on, Barth elaborates (further) "biblical" definitions -- which is the starting and ending point of all of Barth's theology; the theology of the Prophets and Apostles, of God Himself, as He has made Himself known to His specially-selected "witnesses" throughout history.One will find hints of Barth's (so-called) "crisis theology" here; the Bible, attesting to and confronting, humanity with His Word, Jeusus Christ -- who speaks, and has spoken -- and will continue to speak to all....Karl Barth disdained the term "neo-orthodoxy" which was designated to his 'type' of theological-beliefs, or as "his" system. For him the Gospel was "ever anew" and always "fresh" to each generation, as well as every individual in it.He has maintained a patent and resolute singularity with the Reformers, being regarded as one of the greatest Christian thinkers in the Reformed tradition. At the same time, he continually challenges both the orthodox and heterodox to "re-think" our theology and to make sure we are in conformity and within the blessed assurance of the theology of Prophets and the Apostles: God's Word (New Testament Greek: theou logos = "theology").This isn't "past time reading". (Not for the theologically uninformed). Yet the style, method, and "logic" is easily followed -- if one doesn't "skip" a thought here or there. I (personally) use the book as both a "devotional" and as a technical-reference. Chapters on: Prayer, Solitude, The Word, The Witnesses, Community....more!Buy it (you'll like it)!

Barth wrote "evangelical theology" at the very end of his academic career. it consists of reflections upon what it means to be a theologian and a christian. This is a tremendous book and i would recommend it to any serious student of theology.