Includes bibliographical references (pages 390-411) and indexes.

Method and truth -- God : personhood, trinity, holy love and grace -- God and the world -- The challenge of atheism : lessons for Christians -- The nonhuman creation, and ordinances for human welfare -- Human potentiality and the image of god -- Misdirected desire and alienation : a hermeneutical comparison of historical thinkers -- Jesus Christ the mediator -- Why consider historical theologies of the atonement? Historical thought and hermeneutics -- A concise christology -- The Holy Spirit : (I) biblical doctrine -- The Holy Spirit : (II) historical insights -- Why the church? Why ministry? Why sacraments? -- The return of Christ, the resurrection and related issues -- The last judgment, eternity and the restoration of all things.

In this concise, one-volume systematic theology, celebrated scholar Anthony Thiselton covers the various Christian doctrines comprehensively with an eye to practical application for Christian discipleship. Written with students and busy ministers in mind, the book is readable and accessible, with its chapters organized into five fairly equal sections for teaching and learning convenience. Rather than setting out an abstract system, Thiselton explores theology as a living, organic whole. The book thus includes biblical foundations, historical thought, contemporary writers, and practical implications. Expertly incorporating biblical exegesis, philosophy, conceptual grammar, and hermeneutics, this volume is the most succinct multidisciplinary systematic theology available.