"Summary of Christian Doctrine" by Louis Berkhof is an essential resource for anyone seeking a foundational understanding of Christian beliefs from a Reformed perspective. Aimed initially at high school students, this concise work distills Berkhof's larger "Systematic Theology" into a more accessible format without sacrificing depth. It covers a broad range of topics such as God and creation, humanity's relation to God, Christ's person and work, the application of redemption, the church and means of grace, and eschatology. Berkhof's methodical approach ensures that each doctrine is thoroughly explained, making it an excellent tool for both personal and group study. The inclusion of review questions and suggestions for further study at the end of each chapter enhances its value as a teaching aid and encourages deeper exploration of the faith.
Part I: Introduction
Chapter 1 - Religion
Chapter 2 - Revelation
Chapter 3 - Scripture
Part II: The Doctrine of God and Creation
Chapter 4 - The Essential Nature of God
Chapter 5 - The Names God
Chapter 6 - The Attributes of God
Chapter 7 - The Trinity
Chapter 8 - The Divine Decrees
Chapter 9 - Creation
Chapter 10 - Providence
Part III: The Doctrine of Man in Relation to God
Chapter 11 - Man in His Original State
Chapter 12 - Man in the State of Sin
Chapter 13 - Man in the Covenant of Grace
Part IV: The Doctrine of the Person and Work of Christ
Chapter 14 - The Names and Nature of Christ
Chapter 15 - The States of Christ
Chapter 16 - The Offices of Christ
Chapter 17 - The Atonement Through Christ
Part V: The Application of the Work of Redemption
Chapter 18 - The Common Operation of the Holy Spirit: Common Grace
Chapter 19 - Calling and Regeneration
Chapter 20 - Conversion: Repentance and Faith
Chapter 21 - Justification
Chapter 22 - Sanctification and Perseverance
Part VI: The Doctrine of the Church and the Means of Grace.
Chapter 23 - Nature Of The Church.
Chapter 24 - The Government And Power Of The Church.
Chapter 25 - The Word Of God And The Sacraments In General
Chapter 26 - Christian Baptism
Chapter 27 - The Lord's Supper
Part VII: The Doctrine Of The Last Things.
Chapter 28 - Physical Death And The Intermediate State.
Chapter 29 - The Second Coming Of Christ
Chapter 30 - The Resurrection, The Last Judgment And The Final State