Biblical Doctrine: A Systematic Summary of Bible Truth

This was absolutely what I needed for my internship in my local church. John MacArthur and Richard Mathue did a great job putting this together. It was somewhat easy to read with so many references to look up backing their commentary biblically. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have been continually using this as a resource to answer questions or dive back into theological terms to sharpen my knowledge. I highly encourage anyone who wants to know more about why we worship and serve God and especially to to those who want to study God — get this book!

John F. MacArthur, Biblical Doctrine: A Systematic Summary of Bible Truth Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2017, 1,024 pp. $41.43 A theological tour de force. A magnum opus. A breath-taking panorama that leaves the reader in awe. These are only a few descriptions of Biblical Doctrine: A Systematic Summary of Bible Truth. by John MacArthur and Richard Mayhue. The book is arranged as one might expect, according to the various branches of systematic theology: Prolegomena God’s Word: Bibliology God the Father: Theology Proper God the Son: Christology God the Holy Spirit: Pneumatology Man and Sin: Anthropology and Hamartiology Salvation: Soteriology Angels: Angelology The Church: Ecclesiology The Future: Eschatology A comprehensive glossary is included which helps beginning students with cumbersome theological language. Also included is an excellent topical and Scriptural index for instant access to this treasure trove. Each branch of theology is carefully explained and biblically defended. Opposing views are highlighted and refuted with grace and tact. MacArthur and Mayhue never leave the reader guessing. As such, there is never a hint of ambiguity here. Several terms characterize Biblical Doctrine. These terms will either attract or repel readers, but will nonetheless provide a helpful template for evaluating the prospect of plopping down almost $50.00 for a book! Biblical – This book is literally drowning in Scripture. Anyone familiar with MacArthur’s writing, in particular, will not be surprised to find a dogmatic edge. But dogmatism undergirded by humility and informed by Scripture is surely a path worth tracing out. Evangelical – This book is guided by a commitment to the gospel. Look elsewhere for a pragmatic approach. Readers will be blessed by the relentless pursuit of Jesus and his resplendent glory. Orthodox – This book is committed to historic orthodoxy, which is grounded by a literal, grammatical hermeneutic. Liberalism is soundly defeated and relegated to the ash heap. Reformed– This book is informed by the infrastructure of the Reformers of the sixteenth century. Weaving throughout this volume is a commitment to grace alone, faith alone, Christ alone, Scripture alone, and to God alone be the glory. John MacArthur helpfully sums up the essence of the Reformed faith: “It is the marvel of marvels that the King of kings, whose glory is exalted above the heavens, should lift a finger to rescue even one of such vile traitors as the sons of Adam. Then to learn that this infinitely worthy King has purposed to redeem not one but countless multitudes at the cost of the life of his own dear Son bows the sinner’s heart in humble wonder.” I cannot recommend Biblical Doctrine highly enough. It is an outstanding addition to the growing number of books committed to teaching systematic theology. Students will be challenged and stretched; spiritual growth will no doubt occur as they pour over the many pages of this tome. But most significantly, their hearts and minds will be drawn to worship and glorify the Triune God. Soli Deo Gloria! I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

This volume is a must have for every believer. It treats theology with serious and reverence while maintaining a level of accessibility rarely seen in serious systematic theologies. It doesn't shy away from theological terms, but always defines them. And it defends all of its positions from the text of Scripture. It is so comprehensive and accessible that our church gives it out as our new member gift.

Amazing book. Very informative even in the introduction

The Church today is lost in terms of ‘knowing God.’ Recently, Ligonier ministries conducted a national survey called the “state of Theology.” In this survey, they questioned professed Christians regarding what could be called Essential Christian Doctrine. This essential doctrine is the basic building blocks of the faith of any evangelical denomination in history past and today. Yet, based off the survey, the vast majority of professing American Christians are completely wrong in answering basic Christian faith-based questions. The concern from this survey is just sad, it’s alarming. If you do not have right belief then how do you have right salvation? The answer is; you don’t! The right belief/faith comes from the right revelation/the Bible and Dr. MacArthur’s work outlines this clearly so that the reader can come to the right understanding. I have been a Teaching Pastor for three years and I would claim this book as a must have for anyone that is teaching in a Christian church. It is the most cogent expression of biblical truth that I have personally read among comparisons of Systematic Theology. Systematic theology in its simplest understanding is merely the comprehensive answer that God reveals in Scripture regarding any specific topic. Though this book isn’t considered a Systematic Theology writing, it simply, directly, and clearly addresses the Essential Doctrines of the Christian faith. If you are a Christian you need to read this book. Our flock in American is weak because they are confused. In the NT, it says that the Apostle Paul ‘went from church to church strengthening the disciples.’ The secret elixir that Paul strengthened the disciples with is no secret, it was Biblical truth! Biblical Doctrine should be read and taught by church leaders nation-wide. We have to stop teaching and placating toward social niceties and the culture. American culture and being socially nice does nothing, absolutely nothing, to instruct how God has revealed Himself to humanity. It is Scripture alone that teaches the believer what to believe about God. This book helps collate that teaching in an organized and pristine fashion.

Why didn’t I find this earlier?! Excellent book and clearly written and explained for non-clergy individuals. Every topic you can think of and so many of my questions being answered. The language of the Bible can be mysterious and this book really gives clear explanations and references. So happy I found and ordered this book!!

Profound Biblical truth from the exegetical giant John MacArthur!

If you want to get below the surface and down to the nitty-gritty of theology then THIS book is a must have. So thorough and solid in all things Bible.

GET THIS BOOK! I'm only allowed to rate it 5 stars... but it's 500 stars. Find the money, spend the money... on 2 material things; the Holy Bible & this book! It's large & white alike my Mom's KJV BIBLE & my own Bible. This is a so good I'm ordering one to send to my sister! I GUARANTEE YOU WILL NOT REGRET THIS PURCHASE. YOUR BIBLE IS YOUR SWORD. YOUR LIFE MANUAL. This book opens the door to more understanding... 100%. Be blessed. Be still, and read. Get to know God. Build a relationship with Jesus... the entire BIBLE is all about HIM. ARRIVED fast and in amazing condition. LOVE LOVE LOVE this BIG BOOK of insight! Thank you God for direction and the funds to purchase this book. The Glory is all God's. What are you waiting for? Get the book.

Fantastic

I love this product, its a good size, fonts are clear and easily readable, covers are hard and strong, Its heavy because its really thick book that is full of information, its around 969+ pages. if you want to know more about the contents, I cannot give too much detail on it. its hard to explain. but it looks full of information that I need for my study of theology.

Dr. MacArthur has given us his "Magnum Opus" as it were containing material for a lifetime of reading, understanding and reflecting ! Excellent and written with the usual inimitable style of Dr. MacArthur. An extremely valuable addition to any theological library.

a simple and helpful manual on how Christians should live, and beliefs. it has not a very technical vocabulary, but a direct and accessible language.