Book Review: Global Dictionary of Theology IVP
Global Dictionary of Theology
A Resource for the Worldwide Church
Edited by William A. Dyrness
and Veli-Matti K?rkk?inen
Associate Editor Juan F. Martinez
and Simon Chan
ISBN-10: 0830824545
ISBN-13: 978-0830824540
“The Global Dictionary of Theology is inspired by the shift of the center of Christianity from the West to the global South. But it also reflects the increase in two-way traffic between these two sectors as well as the global awareness that has permeated popular culture to an unprecedented degree.
The editorial perspective of the Global Dictionary of Theology is an ecumenical evangelicalism that is receptive to discovering new facets of truth through listening and conversation on a global scale. Thus a distinctive feature of the Global Dictionary of Theology is its conversational approach. Contributors have been called on to write in the spirit of engaging in a larger theological conversation in which alternative views are expected and invited.
Above is a portion of the publisher’s advertising blurb for the Global Dictionary of Theology. This book is new to me in more ways than one. First of all, I live in south Mississippi. I am isolated in my ministry. I minister in Mississippi and Louisiana, and do not venture out further very often. I do try to read widely, however. Never the less, I was unprepared for the variety of view points that would be available. I do know, however, it is well that we seek to examine the viewpoints of others. We are all limited in what we see in Scripture. No single individual has such a corner on understanding and enlightenment that he would not benefit from considering another’s viewpoint. That is what this dictionary does for us.
As one looks up various topics (I was surprised to see things such as business and human rights given articles in a dictionary of theology; but that is why this is given. These things are more important to some than to others. Thus, they must be considered, and we must consider why others count them as being important enough to put into a theological dictionary.) he will find that the editors sought to be fair and sympathetic in the ways that they portrayed the differences between the east and west in their ways and thoughts. Those differences are stated without harsh criticisms or condemnations. That is very good, in my opinion. Another thing that is seen is the fact of our limited perspective. We see the Scriptures through our cultural lens. There is no doubt of that. This book shows us other perspectives. Those perspectives may convert us, or they may solidify the beliefs that we already hold. Either way, this dictionary presents us with an opportunity to learn from others and the understanding to which their studies have led them.
In looking over the dictionary there was one thing that stood out to me. The dictionary is by no means an exhaustive dictionary of theology, though it is quite large. There are no entries for election or predestination. At the same time, it gives quite a bit of space to the larger picture under the entry for reformed theology. In looking at baptism I was quite pleased to see that baptism in water and various viewpoints were presented as well as Holy Spirit baptism. I was glad to see almost eighteen pages given to Christology which addressed past controversies over the person of Christ as well as presenting an overview of present day perspectives that are existent in various parts of the world.
In conclusion, this book is very in depth in its coverage of many topics. It does not always nail down a certain view as dogma, however. The reader is left to form his own conclusions. Many of its topics relate to the various cultures and religions of the world. It is a book that will serve well in research libraries, seminaries, and the libraries of ministers who find themselves traveling much. It will also be useful to the one who desires to learn of the past and present differences in Christendom. While this book will probably not find its way onto the shelves of many American ministers, it is a book that will serve well those who are willing and ready to consider the studied opinions of others.