What Christians Really Believe

Grenz, professor of theology and ethics at Carey Theological College in Vancouver, British Columbia, places Christianity in the context of competing belief systems for today's seekers. Grenz presents the central tenets of the Christian faith clearly and concisely, conveying the major doctrines of the faith--God, humanity, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Church and last things. Grenz poses questions that many Christians ask of their faith--""Why believe at all?""; ""Who is Jesus and what did he do?""--to direct his study of Christian doctrine. Grenz contends that many North Americans now revel in God's immanence within the universe so much that God meshes almost completely with the world. Grenz contends that the Christian understanding of God actually seeks a balance between immanence and transcendence. Grenz argues that humankind can reach the goal of its quest only by turning from self toward the triune God as we leave behind our old identity and discover who we are created to be within the fellowship of the community of Christ. Grenz's guide is an accessible introduction to the Christian faith. (June)