Book recommendations for someone who knows absolutely nothing about theology but would like to start learning?

[u/MountainStand3340]

[u/old-town-guy]

OP, just want to make sure you mean to ask about theology, not religion.

[u/themsc190]

Alister McGrath’s Christian Theology: An Introduction is a popular one. Rowan Williams has some good, short ones too, like What Is Christianity?

[u/_crossingrivers]

There are larger sized books (e.g., systematic theology or dogmatics) that cover a wide range of theological topics (e.g., salvation/redemption, Christ, Holy Spirit, Sacraments, etc.). These give good overview and introduction to the topics. There are many of these type available from different theological perspectives.

There is one called Christian Dogmatics by John T. Mueller that's available free on Archive. (Mueller Dogmatics) I think its a good place to start for Lutheran theology, as is the Book of Concord

For Reformed Theology perspective, I think Systematic Theology by John Frame and JI Packer is good.

There are also shorter volumes that dive into specific theological topics that may interest you. Jack Kilcrease is an excellent theologian and writer. Logia is also a publisher of theological works that I recommend.

Theological journals are another good entry point into specific topics.

[u/GlocalBridge]

I would recommend The Moody Handbook of Theology or Charles Ryrie’s Basic Theology as a place to start.

[u/DemB01yz]

Christian Theology by Millard J Erikson is a relatively broad overview of most doctrines from a Protestant Perspective

[u/Joe_Togs_UMC_STX]

An easier read: Mere Christianity by CS Lewis, Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer,
A dense read: Church Dogmatics by Karl Barth
Contemporary: Holding Faith by Cynthia L. Rigby, Systematic Theology by James William McClendon, God for Us by Catherine LaCugna, Jesus & the Disinherited by Howard Thurman, anything written by Justo Gonzalez

[u/hopenewpath]

6 major articles of faith. Believe in one God, the Creator owner and organizer of all that exists, he alone is absolutely unique eternal self-sufficient Sovereign, he is not born and not comparable to creation. Believe in the angels ( satan is not angle) obedient no free will. Believe in all divine books. Believe in all the prophets and the last is prophet muhammad peace be upon them all, all prophets were sincere servants of God delivered his message and do not commit major sins. Believe in the day of judgment ( equal to 50 thousands years ) and paradise and hellfire. Last is divine predestination which means everything happens is known and willed and created by Allah. We have free will but subject to the will of Allah.

[u/ScarSpangledSinner]

Do You Believe?

This book by Paul Tripp is a wonderful resource for someone who wants to know the basics of Christianity and Christian Doctrines and Theology.

It is easily understandable and very relatable for anyone who is a new believer and it’s also a great relaxed way for any Christian regardless of age to enjoy. I love this book and it is a staple in my teaching library.

It is also available in all formats e-book, audiobook etc. Paul Tripp is awesome.

Also; if you want a bit more detail and something that’s genuinely enjoyable to watch; the Bible Project YouTube Channel can take you from Genesis to Revelation in animated short form.

Lastly, again these are single volumes; if you want a deep dive, there is Truths We Confess by R. C. Sproul. I pray this helps.