Theology Primer

A concise, philosophically grounded introduction to Christian systematic theology that organizes core doctrines—such as creation, Trinity, sin, salvation, and Christology—within a framework open to contemporary social, ethical, and interreligious dialogue.

What does it mean to think theologically in a world shaped by competing religions, modern philosophy, and pressing social questions?

In A Theology Primer, Robert Cummings Neville offers a clear yet intellectually rigorous introduction to Christian theology as a disciplined way of thinking about God, creation, and human existence. Rather than treating doctrine as static belief, Neville presents theology as an ongoing act of conceptual interpretation—one that engages scripture, tradition, reason, and experience in a dynamic conversation.

Spanning topics from the nature of divine creation and the Trinity to sin, salvation, Christology, and the role of the Church, the book builds a systematic framework for understanding Christian thought in relation to contemporary philosophical and interreligious concerns. Particular attention is given to the human condition under covenant, the complexities of grace and freedom, and the social dimensions of sin and sanctification.

Neville also situates classical Christian claims alongside liberation and feminist theological perspectives, as well as broader world religious traditions, making the work especially relevant for readers interested in theology's public and global dimensions.

Readers will find:
· A structured introduction to core Christian doctrines
· Philosophically informed analysis of theological concepts
· Engagement with modern ethical and social issues
· Dialogue with non-Christian religions and contemporary theological movements

Praised for its clarity and accessibility while remaining philosophically sophisticated, A Theology Primer serves as both a classroom text and a serious entry point into systematic theology.

Whether you are approaching theology for the first time or revisiting it with critical questions in mind, this book provides a disciplined framework for thinking through faith, reason, and the meaning of divine life in the world.

Robert Cummings Neville is Professor of Philosophy, Religion, and Theology at Boston University, and Dean of the Boston University School of Theology. He is Past President of the Metaphysical Society of America, and President-Elect of the American Academy of Religion. Neville has also written Behind the Masks of God: An Essay Toward Comparative Theology; New Essays in Metaphysics; The Puritan Smile: A Look Toward Moral Reflection; Reconstruction of Thinking; Recovery of the Measure: Interpretation and Nature; and The Tao and the Daimon, all published by SUNY Press.