Lauren Ducommun

Every now and then I like to share some favorite resources that I recommend for families and older teens. I like to keep a few good commentaries and systematic theology books in our home library for a quick reference. And from a variety of evangelical Protestants: Grudem, Ryrie, Kaiser, etc. A new one has entered our collection, and it is a gem: Essentials of Reformed Systematic Theology by Joel Beeke and Paul Smally.

While Essentials of Reformed Systematic Theology is a massive volume, abridged from Reformed Systematic Theology, don’t let that dissuade you. It is truly a living book of theology written by two authors, a Presbyterian and a Baptist, who love the Lord. Joining together to share the wonder of theology and how knowing God and who he is leads to praise. I couldn’t help catch their delight for God’s Word and theology when I was reading this book.

I’ve seen people use this systematic theology book as a resource, like a dictionary or an encyclopedia, to look up specific topics to study. I’ve seen others create reading plans to read through it at a pace over the course of a year or two. There are different ways you can incorporate this into your homeschool or reading life. While topical doctrine studies are one way, there is something about starting at the beginning and laying that firm foundation.

Each chapter ends with “Suggested Song to Sing to the Lord” along with “Questions for Meditation or Discussion.” The questions are simple and help summarize the points being read. These would also make great assignments if using for a high school theology or Bible class.

I am so thankful for this resource. It is truly a gem, and it sits on my shelf next to Grudem, Ryrie, and Bavinck. Even if you may not agree with the tertiary beliefs or Reformed bent of these authors, I would still recommend their writing. First, because it’s good to know what other believers’ doctrinal stances are, but also because regardless of specifics on baptism, covenants, or election, their love for the Lord and His Word is evident. You will come away encouraged by this systematic theology book, and delighting in Christ our Savior.

I received this book from Crossway as a gift. All opinions are my own.

Essentials of Reformed Systematic Theology
by Joel Beeke & Paul Smalley
Crossway, 2025
1088 pages

or use code LAUREND to get 10% off at 10ofthose.com.