Understanding Faith Formation: Theological, Congregational, and Global Dimensions
Each review must be no more than five pages (1-inch margins, double-spaced, 12-ptfont), conforming to the format below. For the two textbooks not reviewed, the student will compose a
three-paragraph reflection. The first paragraph should provide a broad, sweeping summary of thebook’s thesis and content, the second paragraph should assess the book’s strengths and weakness, andthe third paragraph should identify specific applications to life and ministry. Finally, students shouldinclude 2-3 questions that might prompt fruitful conversation in class meeting.
REVIEW FORMAT:Introduction (1 paragraph): Briefly introduce the book’s purpose and author. Biographicalinformation (education, training, experience) should be included only as it demonstrates theauthor’s competency to write the book.Summary (1 page): Briefly provide a minimal summary of the books content. Address the author’sprimary thesis and summarize the main points or arguments by which the author defends his/herthesis.Critical Evaluation (2-3 pages): Carefully weigh the author’s claims and the arguments used tosupport them. Avoid bland endorsements, blanket dismissals, and trivial criticisms (liketypographical mistakes). Engage the main points that relate to the author’s thesis, and use specific examples. You might consider the following:Are the claims and arguments well supported? What are the strengths and weaknesses in the author’s argumentation? Assess the arguments biblically and theologically.Does the author approach the subject with any overall perspectives or biases that condition hisor her conclusions? Here may be theological, experiential, philosophical, denominational, orcultural. Do these perspectives limit or enhance the value or applicability of the book?How does the author’s presentation fare when compared to similar books? How successful is the book at accomplishing its own goals?Conclusion (1-2 paragraphs): Give your overall evaluation of the book, in light of its strengths and weaknesses. How is the book valuable for your own research? How can the book be improved? Atthe bottom, include 2-3 discussion questions that might prompt health classroom conversation
Due May 17, 11:59 p.m. Review or Reflection: Maddix, Mark A., Kim, Jonathan H., and Estep,James Riley, Jr. Understanding Faith Formation: Theological, Congregational, and Global Dimensions. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 2020. ISBN: 978-1540960382
