Professor Macquarrie, of Union Theological Seminary, offers here a systematic statement of the nature of theology, its connections with other disciplines, and something of its practical applications in the life and task of the church. Theology is defined as the study in which, through participation in, and reflection upon, a religious faith, the theologian strives to state the content of this faith in the Clearest, most coherent way possible. This factor of ""participation"" distinguishes theology from its kindred discipline, the philosophy of religion--which is marked more by detachment than by involvement. Theology finds its sources in experience, revelation, Scripture, tradition, culture, and reason. For this purpose, it must enter into relationships with such disciplines as history, philosophy, and the human and the natural sciences. The book provides a very helpful introduction to the whole task of theologizing."" It is comprehensive in scope, concise in statement, and liberal in temper, while at the same time maintaining a solid Christian position. For students and for lay readers who wish to understand better the nature of the theological field.