Review: Delighting in the Trinity

IVP Academic, 2012. 135 pp.

Introducing theology to students can be difficult in a single text. Systematic theologies provide large amounts of information that may be overwhelming and unnecessary for a general audience, and popular books are accessible yet may teach doctrine that is either too shallow or too slanted. Where is the via media in teaching theology? This is the issue that Michael Reeves seeks to rectify in his new book Delighting in the Trinity: An Introduction to the Christian Faith (IVP Academic, 2012). In this text, Reeves does not dissect the minutia of Christian theology but rather surveys the Christian life from a trinitarian lens, showing how the Triune God distinctly operates in the life of a believer.

This book answers the great questions of Christianity through the Trinity. Reeves argues that the dogma of the Trinity sets Christianity apart from other religions; thus, trinitarian living is distinct from other faiths. In five brief chapters, Reeves introduces the doctrines of creation, salvation, and Christian living and shows how the Triune God operates within each aspect of it. His writing is succinct yet full, scholarly yet accessible, and breakout boxes highlight significant figures in church history who have contributed to the historical development of doctrine. Furthermore, the book contains illustrations throughout and is written in a lively and conversational—yet clear—tone.

As the Father, Son, and Spirit have always known fellowship with each other, so we in the image of God are made for fellowship (p. 102)

At less than 150 pages, this book is ideal for theological students and laypersons alike who are interested in discovering the heart of the Christian faith and is suitable for small group study, Sunday school classes, and academic courses. It allows those with little theological education to understand and embrace the core of Christianity and how the Trinity makes the difference for Christian thinking and practice. Congratulations to Reeves for providing a wide-reaching, uncompromising gateway into the journey of faith.

(My thanks is given to IVP for providing a complimentary review copy.)

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