This guide aims to introduce the student to the problems, tasks, traditions and personalities of Christian theology. It assumes no prior knowledge of the subject and is written in a clear style with an emphasis on intelligibility and accessibility of information. The book contains three major sections. "Landmarks" is an exposition of the historical development of Christian theology from the patristic period to the present day, examining key figures and movements. It includes material relating to postmodernism, post-liberalism and evangelicalism. "Sources and Methods" provides an account of issues such as the nature of theological language, the nature of theological sources (such as Scripture, reason, tradition and experience) and the manner in which they have been used throughout Christian history. The third (and largest) part of the book - "Christian Theology" - examines the major principles of systematic and pastoral theology, and includes full discussion of classic and modern approaches to the discipline. Throughout, Dr McGrath adopts a non-denominational approach.
Educational considerations are given priority, and the needs of those studying theology with a view to ministry are also taken seriously.