This intriguing volume fills a gap in teaching materials for theological students that has long been noteworthy: it tackles the traditional loci of systematic theology through the lens of modernity's particular challenges. Not a history of doctrine nor yet a systematic theology in itself, it introduces the reader to the chief problems that Christian systematic theology has had to face in the modern and contemporary periods when seeking to defend, or at times adjust, its classic heritage. Intended primarily for students in the Reformed tradition, this book will prove to be an excellent textbook and focus for debate; the editors are to be congratulated on the quality and insightfulness of the contributions.
-Sarah Coakley,
Norris-Hulse Professor of Divinity, University of Cambridge
This collection of fifteen essays on key topics will repay careful study. Through examining the different ways in which the central doctrines of the Christian faith have been handled under the pressures of modernity, it provides valuable orientation for students of modern theology. Clear, informed, and insightful, it deserves inclusion on all relevant reading lists.
-David Fergusson,
professor of divinity and principal of New College, University of Edinburgh
A volume such as this is a welcome guide indeed to the contours of modern theology. Especially valuable is the organization of this book according to the classical doctrinal loci and central concerns of the Christian theological tradition. An impressive lineup of scholars provides a sure guide to the ways each of these concerns has been treated within the context of modernity and demonstrates thereby the necessity of our striving, even if sometimes failing, to tell of the gospel in ways both responsible to the tradition and alert to the realities of contemporary culture.
-Murray Rae,
professor of theology, University of Otago
This is an unusually helpful book. Clearly written, reliable, and illuminating, it traces the development of key Christian doctrines throughout the modern period, and in so doing offers a lucid introduction to modern theology. The best book of its kind. Highly recommended.
-Adam A. Neder,
associate professor of theology, Whitworth University
This outstanding collection of essays with contributions from leaders in the field will appeal to scholars and students alike. The format is classical: a topical overview of particular doctrines. By combining careful attention to the development of the different loci in the modern period alongside sensitivity to the theological nuances involved in each doctrine, the editors have managed to provide the reader with a genuine alternative to other textbooks. The essays are all excellent, setting a high watermark for other such symposia. It should quickly establish itself as a resource of choice for those wanting a comprehensive account of modern Christian theology that is alert to historical as well as systematic considerations. I highly recommend it.
-Oliver Crisp,
professor of systematic theology,
Fuller Theological Seminary
"What makes this volume, edited by Kapic and McCormack, unique in this genre of books is its attempt to tell the story of modern theology in a thematic format...The fifteen chapters cover the typical topics of theology (e.g. creation, anthropology, atonement, pneumatology, etc.), each written by...a leading voice from within a broadly Reformed perspective...Mapping Modern Theology is a welcome addition, and one which I as a teacher plan on adopting the next time around. Rarely does there come along a volume which is not only historically rich, but systematically nuanced and readable as well. Kapic and McCormack (and all the contributors) are to be commended for a fine book which will serve students well.
-Myles Werntz,
Englewood Review of Books
This is a great textbook for understanding what's happened in systematic theology over the last couple of centuries...There's a sweet spot here in the shared space between evangelical and mainline scholarship...Between them, Kapic and McCormack have really assembled a great team of writers, and this looks like a book that's going to help a lot of students and stay in use for quite a while. There are a few other overviews of modern theology available, but Mapping is likely to establish itself as the go-to text for college and seminary, for one main reason: its thematic organization...The book is carefully designed with students in mind, to solve problems that Kapic and McCormack have seen their students encounter over their years of teaching modern theology.
-Fred Sanders,
The Scriptorium blog
The unique achievement of Mapping Modern Theology is showing the development of particular doctrines within modern theology [and] highlighting the theologians who carried these conversations forward...This book provides a valuable map for every student of theology. It will be beneficial for those seeking an overview of modern theology as well as a crucial resource for systematic theology courses. For anyone interested in theology, this is an essential book for your shelf, but like the best maps, it is not meant to collect dust and should be underlined, notated, and dog-eared through continual use and enjoyment.
-Wes Vander Lugt,
Jesus Creed blog