The Cathedral of Theology
Principles of Christian Dogmatics
IVP Academic · Systematic Theology / Theological Method · Hardcover, 464 pages
Published September 15, 2026 · ISBN 9781514017449 · $64.99
From the publisher
Laying the foundation for a classical Christian theology. Good theology requires a firm foundation — but how do we lay one? As the first volume in the Pillars of Christian Dogmatics series, The Cathedral of Theology is a work of prolegomena that sets out the principles for doing theology, taking an exegetical, historical, philosophical, and doctrinal approach to questions such as:
- what theology is, and the virtues needed to do it
- the relationship between God's knowledge and human knowledge
- revelation, both natural and supernatural
- the relationship between faith and reason, and metaphysics and theology
- principles of biblical interpretation and how to organize theology
- the covenantal context for theology, the use of imagination, and the pursuit of beauty
Using the metaphor of a cathedral, Fesko argues for attending to the foundation of the building before raising its walls, windows, and ceilings — offering the blueprint and laying the groundwork for "a beautiful and lasting theological edifice." It serves as an ideal textbook for students and a rich resource for scholars.
Description adapted from the publisher, IVP Academic.
Endorsements
"This book on theological prolegomena covers much-needed ground. It is wide-ranging and historically aware, harvesting insights from the patristic, medieval, Reformation, and post-Reformation eras… I commend this work to the novice, the seasoned, and all in-between."
— Richard C. Barcellos, associate professor of exegetical theology, International Reformed Baptist Seminary
"I love everything about this prolegomenon… from its architectural depiction of theological reflection as a cathedral to the emphasis on doing theology within the bounds of Reformed catholicity… I highly recommend this volume, which is especially dedicated to the foundations of all our study of God and his ways!"
— Michael A. G. Haykin, professor of church history and biblical spirituality, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
"This book is a monumental achievement! … From my own Roman Catholic perspective, I call upon Roman Catholics to read this tour de force and to be instructed."
— Matthew Levering, James N. Jr. and Mary D. Perry Chair of Theology, Mundelein Seminary
"An outstanding book… It covers all the traditional topics but in a way that engages contemporary problems. For me, as someone who regularly teaches a class on theological prolegomena, it is a joy to read such a learned and helpful volume."
— Keith A. Mathison, professor of systematic theology, Reformation Bible College
Endorsements are published by IVP Academic and used here for promotion. See the full list on the publisher's page.
The Theology Shelf note: we haven't read this one yet — when we do, we'll add our own honest take here. For now, this page gathers the publisher's description and what named reviewers have said.
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