New Book - Creation: The Christian Doctrine by Edward W. H. Vick

July 12, 2012 - PRLog -- Energion Publications is pleased to announce the release of Dr. Edward W.H. Vick's new book, Creation: The Christian Doctrine, a concise but thorough examination of the elements of a specifically Christian doctrine of creation using the methods of systematic theology.

Christian discussions of creation or origins typically start with one of the standard positions on this doctrine and then present the arguments in favor of that position. In this book, Edward W. H. Vick looks at creation as a systematic theologian. What does it mean for a doctrine to be called "Christian"? How does one derive and express a doctrine of creation that is truly Christian in content? He starts by distinguishing biblical theology, the topic of companion volume, Creation in Scripture by Herold Weiss, from the theological approach in this book.

This book is divided into three parts. Each has its own style and function.

The first presents an introductory statement about how we approach a doctrinal explanation of the theme of Creation. Then it gives a theological account of the meaning of the assertion that God is Creator. The second presents statements by representative respected theologians, as they expound the theme and argue for a separation of theology from science. It states some quite basic positions. The third is in the form of a conversation—an effective way of introducing differing points of view pro and con.

Finally, the book includes a series of questions for each chapter, making it useful as a basis for group study and discussion.

Some advance praise for Creation: The Christian Doctrine (http://energionpubs.com/books/1938434021/):

In this relatively short volume, Dr. Edward Vick presents a thorough and precise overview of the Christian doctrine of Creation.  This book has enormous value as a stand alone text yet, when coupled with Herold Weiss’ outstanding review of relevant Scriptural texts,  provides theological insights which complement the task of Scriptural exegesis with respect to this important doctrine of Creation.  There is no wasted word in this truly magnificent work as Dr. Vick explains and defines important terminology and challenges us to look at complex questions reasonably and faithfully.  While its topic is creation, it would serve well as a primer in the relationship of faith, Scripture and theology, a relationship with practical applcability to a multiplicity of issues confronting modern Christianity.  In short, this is an outstanding resource in Christian theology, one to which I expect to return many, many times.
Rev. Dr. Robert R. LaRochelle, Author, Crossing the Street and Part Time Pastor, Full Time Church

For the truth-seeker who takes seriously both faith and science, this thoughtful book makes a lot of sense, especially as a follow-up to its companion volume by Herold Weiss (Creation in Scripture).  I found the discussion questions on creation, and the conversation among three Christian friends, unique, provocative, and elucidating features of this masterful contribution to a vexed and timely topic.
Lawrence T. Geraty, President Emeritus, La Sierra University

Drawing from the history of the relevant developments in philosophy and theology, Vick presents a cogent argument for a confessional Christian doctrine of Creation. To this end he makes important distinctions and gives concrete definitions to the vocabulary needed for the task. He argues that scientific and historical understandings of how the reality in which we live came to be are religiously irrelevant. Instead he presents a Christian understanding of what a doctrine of creation affirms. The clarity of the presentation and the relevance of its message makes this a most welcome contribution to a debate that quite often lacks both. I highly recommend its careful reading to the layperson, the cleric and the professional theologian, be they either Christian or non-Christian.
Herold Weiss, author of Creation in Scripture and Professor Emeritus of New Testament, St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame

About the Author:
Dr. Edward W. H. Vick was born in Sussex, England. He grew up in Berkshire. A graduate of London (BD), Nottingham (BA Philosophy), Oxford (B.Litt.), and Vanderbilt (Ph.D.) Universities, Dr. Vick is a teacher of wide experience, including many years at Canadian Union College, Alberta (Canada) and at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, Andrews University, Michigan (USA). Later he was Head of Religious Studies Department, Forest Fields College, Nottingham, England.

He is now retired, but has for many years been teaching philosophy in local Adult Education programs and writing about matters he has been reflecting on for a lifetime. He has written many books, among them: From Inspiration to Understanding: Reading the Bible Seriously and Faithfully, Let me Assure You: Is Salvation Really Free? Jesus the Man, Speaking Well of God, Our Lord's Prayer, History and Christian Faith, Theological Essays, Quest: Science and Religion, and The Adventists' Dilemma.

Edward W. H Vick lives with Esther, his wife of 59 years, in Nottingham, England. He has a son, two daughters, and four grandchildren.