★★★★★ 5
Great Read for "Emerging" Christians (Kindle edition)
Format: Hardcover
I have a lot to say which is positive about this book, but first let me say my one disappointment:
In his review of theological development of the 20th century, he completely skipped over the pentecostal and charismatic movements. He spent lots of time discussing liberation and feminist theologies, but skipped over these massive movements which claim followers in the 100s of millions. This is surprising to me do to the author's pentecostal roots and the fact that he is a solidly evangelical theologian. It could be argued that these movements haven't introduce "new doctrine" but rather just a "new emphasis" on existing doctrines such as spiritual gifts or the Holy Spirit. True, but then why did he spend so much time discussing the Pietists for whom the same could be argued. The theological influence of the pentecostal and charismatic movements is significant and their omission is glaring.
Other than that...
This is a timely book, especially for younger Christians. So many "emerging" Christians are writing books and spouting off ideas which they take to be new and innovative. Reading this book shows you just how tiered they are. Reading Olson's chapter on the emergence of 19th century theological liberalism in Germany reminded me of the last Brian McLaren book I read. Same ideas, but but in the context of church history one realises that these "new perspectives" have already been tried and found wanting. Solomon's declaration that, "There is nothing new under the sun" is what rand through my ears when I considered what a lot of hip, trendy, "innovative" preachers are saying now-a-days.
Olson's dealing with Catholic and Orthodox church history was fair and unbiased given that many evangelical protestants often are when writing about them. I personally learned a lot about both the Scholastics as well as the Pietists. I also valued his perspective on Augustine.
It is a great one volume work. Also, unlike the other reviewer, my Kindle version worked just fine.
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Reviewed in the United States on November 26, 2010
