From the first page of A Practical Primer on Theological Method, Glenn Kreider and Michael Svigel introduce readers to the “Table.” At the table a discussion is occurring regarding theological method, defined by Kreider and Svigel as “the manner, mode, and means of participating in discourse concerning God, his works, and his ways” (26). A key contribution of this book is its emphasis on the concept of theology in community. Kreider and Svigel’s “illustration of the Table serves as a reminder that we are meant to do theology in community, in real dependence on the knowledge, wisdom, and insights of others” (163). As Christians, we are all invited and welcomed to the Table to interact with believers (and non-believers) in discourse concerning God and everything in light of God.

Kreider and Svigel propose the following thesis: “Theological method can be likened to a round Table discussion among several intersecting fields of inquiry all centered on God’s revelation” (17). Around the table are representatives from various disciplines who contribute to the discussion of seeking to understand God, his works, and his ways. At the center of the Table is what the authors describe as God’s three-fold revelation: “The Word to the World (God’s verbal revelation), The Word in the World (Jesus Christ), and The World of the Word (everything created by God)” (18).

The next three chapters explain the theological method, which is how we approach God’s authoritative revelation, the Word at the center of the Table. The authors describe God’s revelation as Him revealing Himself to us and unveiling His truth; therefore, we are the receivers of God’s Word.There are two sources of theology, the “first-tier source of theology is God’s revelation, what God says and does as his revelation of himself, and the second-tier sources for theology are what people say and do in light of the revelation of God” (42).

The remainder of the book consists of a chapter dedicated to every guest at the Table, each of which provides their essential component of theological discourse. The Interpreter provides exegesis of Scripture.The Theologian “builds on doctrinal standards believed, taught, and confessed in the body of Christ worldwide and throughout history” (73). Virtue is the conscience at the Table. The Philosopher searches for wisdom to help articulate theology. The Scientist studies creation in search of God’s revelation. The Artist uses creativity to represent the image of God. The Minister is an example of practical theology, and the Historian is the authority regarding past events.

The last chapter is an invitation. Kreider and Svigel express to readers, as Christians who are a part of a community, that we are already at the Table, and as respondents to God’s revelation, participants in theology. The authors are asking us to please accept the summons as the Holy Spirit draws us to the Table.

All guests bring different perspectives on theology to the Table. Those views contribute to bringing God’s people closer to the truth regarding God, His works, and His ways. Collaborating with others is a good example of engaging in theology. This book is a great resource that could be utilized in small groups, leadership trainings, or for anyone who is trying to understand God better. It would also be a great book to utilize for a theological methods course. It could serve as a “how to” guide on ways to engage in theology. The authors use strong citations from reputable authors while also writing very accessibly, which makes the book both academically strongandpractical for daily life.