Review:

Reformed and Always Reforming

This book is dynamite and must be handled with care. It has the capacity to blow away preconceptions but also the potential to undermine some cherished tenets of the faith. Roger Olson is a veteran theologian who raises some novel questions which are both important and uncomfortable. Questions include whether it is possible to become more evangelical while being less conservative, or whether a person’s claim to be a Christian can be tested on more than their doctrine, or whether theology can be constructive and creative rather than simply regurgitated. The questions Olson raises need to be faced fairly and squarely, although I would not necessarily agree with all of his answers. The book is occasionally repetitive and is definitely written for a US evangelical audience. The book is bound to stimulate thinking, lively discussions, and hopefully a renewed emphasis on a truly biblical theology.

High: Important theological questions are raised that warrant serious attention.

Low: Too much post: post-evangelical, post-conservative, post-modern, postinfinitum.

Reviewed by Krish Kandiah, executive director: churches in mission at the Evangelical Alliance.

Baker / £7.99 / 9780764203305