Offers a lively, concise, and easily accessible approach to the development of Christianity's core themes over the centuries As Christianity enters into a new phase of expansion, the study of Christian theology continues to play a key role in modern intellectual culture, as well as to those wanting to understand the central issues and preoccupations of the Middle Ages, the European Reformation, or many other periods in human history. Since its initial publication more than 30 years ago, Christian Theology: An Introduction has established itself as one of the most respected and widely used theological textbooks. Now in its seventh edition, this classic textbook remains an unparalleled introduction to the primary concepts, themes, and developments of 2,000 years of Christian thought. Designed for students with no prior knowledge of the subject, Christian Theology provides an overview of historical theology, explains central aspects of philosophical theology, describes major debates over Christian theological method, and explores key doctrines of systematic theology. Theologically neutral chapters offer balanced coverage of Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, and evangelical traditions, positions, perspectives, and insights. In this new edition, renowned theologian Alister E. McGrath is joined by educationalist Matthew J. Thomas to ensure that Christian Theology connects with a range of contemporary teaching contexts. Reviewed and improved content is supported by an entirely new series of fifteen lectures on Christian theology written and presented by Professor McGrath. Christian Theology: An Introduction, Seventh Edition, remains the ideal textbook for university courses in Christian theology, seminary courses across denominations, church discussion groups, adult Sunday schools, and those looking for a reliable guide to the study of Christian thought.