Introduction
I count it a distinct honor to be asked to write the introduction
for a new edition of this splendid book. From the time it was first issued some
years ago, I have always considered it the best book of my acquaintance in the
field of systematic theology. During my seminary days I was under the necessity
of studying several text books on systematic theology, and since that time I
have studied and read many volumes along that line, but none of these have been
as satisfactory as this volume. There are several reasons for my making this
statement.
1. So many texts along this line CONTAIN A MIXTURE OF THEOLOGY AND
PHILOSOPHY. This book deals with theology and leaves out the philophizing.
2. This volume while of satisfactory size, covers much more
territory than other books far more bulky. The reason for this is the fact that
the author without superfluous words delves immediately into his subject. He
acquaints the reader with sufficient Scripture to prove each point.
3. 1 prefer this book because THE AUTHOR IS WHOLLY UNINFLUENCED BY
MODERN THEOLOGICAL TRENDS. He believes that if God says something that settles
it, hence to him the field of theology is not to be compared to a beach that is
constantly being changed by erratic tides and shifting winds.
4. I find this book most
satisfactory BECAUSE IT TEACHES THE DOCTRINES THAT HAVE BECOME UNPOPULAR
because of the changing times and the doctrinal looseness that characterizes
whole denominations of this day. I recall a large and attractive volume published
some years ago by a very gifted and popular theologian. The author seemed
unwilling to commit himself concerning some of the doctrines that are of a
controversial nature. He contented himself with a middle-of-the-road position,
seeking to state the various views pro and con, without revealing his own
position. You will not find such theological cowardice on the part of the
author of this book. Moreover, if you reverence the Scriptures, you will
probably end up by agreeing with him, whether you started out to do so or not.
5. One fine thing about this book is the fact that IT IS ADAPTED
TO THE NEEDS OF BOTH THE THEOLOGIAN AND THE AVERAGE READER. Many times in
talking with a young minister, I have urged that he procure a copy of this book
and read it carefully. I knew that if he did it, he would get started out on
the right road. When laymen have asked if I could recommend a book that would
give them a good grasp of Bible doctrine, I have recommended this book, and I
have never had such persons to express disappointment.
6. Through the years I have found this book A VALUABLE REFERENCE
WORK. Often in writing articles I have had need to refresh my memory along some
doctrinal line. I turned to this volume because I knew that I would in brief
compass find the information I sought.
7. This book is not only very suitable for classroom study in
college, Bible Institutes and the like, IT WOULD REVOLUTIONIZE THE DOCTRINAL
BELIEFS OF THE AVERAGE CHURCH if it were used by the pastor as the basis for a
series of doctrinal messages, or for instructional classes in Bible doctrine.
As I have used Brother Simmons' book through the years I have
found myself more nearly in accord with its doctrinal teachings than with any
book on systematic theology that I have known. One thing that has enhanced the
value of the book to me, is the fact that I have known and appreciated the
author for nearly half a century. I am glad that he is planning to reissue the
book, and I trust that it will have a wide sale.
Roy Mason, A.B., Th.D, Aripeka, Florida