Philosophy (Reclaiming the Christian Intellectual Tradition) [eBook]

A Student’s Guide

Philosophy pervades every sphere of life from the defense of the gospel to the formulation of Christian doctrine to the daily decisions we make.

In this work, distinguished professor David Naugle gives us a firm understanding of the basic issues, thinkers, and sub-disciplines in the field of philosophy as well as an invitation to engage with the contemporary challenges therein. He discusses the importance of prolegomena (assumptions and methods) and the vocation of Christian philosophers. Naugle also outlines the differences between the Hebrew and Greek mindsets and provides biblical perspectives through an Augustinian approach. Above all, Naugle teaches us how to philosophize in light of God and the gospel.

David Naugle (ThD, Dallas Theological Seminary) is distinguished university professor and chair of philosophy at Dallas Baptist University. He is the author of Worldview: The History of a Concept (Christianity Today’s Book of the Year in Theology and Ethics, 2003), and of Reordered Love, Reordered Lives: Learning the Deep Meaning of Happiness.

David S. Dockery (PhD, University of Texas) has been president of Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, since 1995. He is a much sought-after speaker and lecturer, a consulting editor for Christianity Today, and the author or editor of more than twenty-five books, including Southern Baptist Consensus and Renewal and Theologians of the Baptist Tradition.

“A very readable, theologically sensitive treatment of crucial philosophical issues of central concern to the Christian faith. Dr. Naugle has done a first-rate job of covering a wide range of issues in a responsible way, while keeping the level of discourse at a truly introductory level. This book fills a needed gap in the literature, and I am delighted to endorse it.”
—J. P. Moreland, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Biola University; author, The Soul: How We Know It’s Real and Why It Matters

“This fine book not only makes important explorations in Christian philosophy accessible to those who may be starting out on their intellectual journey; it also offers insights to those of us who are well along in that pilgrimage. Dr. Naugle combines solid scholarship with a firm grasp of how a biblical worldview can help to reclaim a strong Christian intellectual tradition in these confusing—but exciting—times.”
—Richard J. Mouw, President, Professor of Christian Philosophy, Fuller Theological Seminary

“Adolescent Christians entering adulthood often have plenty of zeal for the faith, but stand in need of theological facility and in even greater need of philosophical awareness. This little book opens both doors and welcomes the newcomer in to what proves to be—and this, too, can be surprising—a single room of treasures. I especially love how exploring the room brings to light, not only the treasures, but traces of the copious inquiries of an experience Christian scholar and caring teacher of philosophy. It inspires and summons to a life of loving wisdom (philosophy) and loving God.”
—Esther L. Meek, Professor of Philosophy, Geneva College; author, Loving to Know: Introducing Covenant Epistemology; A Little Manual for Knowing

“Although I disagree with my esteemed colleague at some points (philosophers are always arguing with each other!), this astute primer serves as a learned, well-written, deeply historical, and biblical treatment of what it means to philosophize as a follower of Jesus Christ. Readers will be richly rewarded by Professor Naugle’s insights, passion, and Christian commitment to philosophy as a divine calling.”
—Douglas Groothius, Professor of Philosophy, Denver Seminary; author, Christian Apologetics

“David Naugle’s book is an insightful guide for all ‘lovers of wisdom.’ It is readily understandable to the philosophical novice while at the same time offering a rich, theologically informed overview of philosophy’s themes to benefit and challenge the scholar. Dr. Naugle is a philosopher who knows well the importance of worldview formation but also has a passion for thoughtful believers to be transformed into the image of Christ.”
—Paul Copan, Pledger Family Chair of Philosophy and Ethics, Palm Beach Atlantic University; author, Loving Wisdom: Christian Philosophy of Religion