Ronni Kurtz

In Fruitful Theology, Ronni Kurtz reminds us that we are all theologians, regardless of what or how much we believe about God. Each chapter outlines the fruit of the Spirit in relation to theology in a moving way. The main premise of the book is that the study and “result of theology done well should be love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22).”

Kurtz says, “when Christians set their minds toward the deep things of God in the task of theology, we set our gaze on none other than the triune God.” Theology is meant to lead us to worship, and “as we set out on this adventure of contemplating God and all things in relation to God, we will be transformed.”

For me, Fruitful Theology truly accomplishes the author’s desired outcome in moving my own theological journey “a few steps closer” (if not many steps closer!) toward the fruit of the Spirit.

If there is one book I’ve read recently on theology that has fueled the longings of my heart to know God, it is this one. Far too often, the truths about God have been used as a weapon in unloving and ungracious ways. Each chapter both reminded me and opened up a greater depth in how the fruit of the Spirit should permeate our lives in regard to theology and how we love God and people. As the author states, “A mind full of truth should lead to a heart full of love and hands full of care.”

The chapter concerning self-control was especially insightful, helpful, and eye-opening, presenting the topic in a way I have never before heard.

I was inspired to seek to live out the fruit of the Spirit toward God and others, studying each more deeply to inspire me further in this endeavor. This book is a treasure chest full of practical help and truth, thoroughly written and presented to the reader.

I received a review copy of this book for free from Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.… (more)