In thirteen chapters, Kevin Vanhoozer explores various dimensions of doing first theology and illuminates not only how we can talk about God but how we can begin with the Word of God and act on the basis of that Word. Blazing a pathway for recovering the unity of biblical studies and theological reflection, he addresses the challenges presented by the contemporary so-called postmodern situation, especially deconstructionism. Not only does a way of doing God-centered biblical interpretation come to light through Vanhoozer's explorations, but the triune identity of a God who is communicative, loving and sovereign also comes into focus.

This is a book for students, pastors and teachers who have an interest in the character of God, the nature of Scripture, Christian theology, our approach to hermeneutics and how they are all necessarily interrelated to the glory of God.

Acknowledgements
Preface: First Thoughts

1. First Theology: Meditations in a Postmodern Toolshed

Part One: God

2. Does the Trinity Belong in a Theology of Religions? On Angling in the Rubicon & the "Identity" of God
3. The Love of God: Its Place, Meaning & Function in Systematic Theology
4. Effectual Call or Causal Effect? Summons, Sovereignty & Supervenient Grace

Part Two: Scripture

5. God's Mighty Speech Acts: The Doctrine of Scripture Today
6. From Speech Acts to Scripture Acts: The Covenant of Discourse & the Discourse of the Covenant

Part Three: Hermeneutics

7. The Spirit of Understanding: Special Revelation & General Hermeneutics
8. The Reader at the Well: Responding to John 4
9. The Hermeneutics of I-Witness Testimony: John 21:20-24 & the Death of the Author
10. Body Piercing, the Natural Sense & the Task of Theological Interpretation: A Hermeneutical Homily on John 19:34
11. The World Well Staged? Theology, Culture & Hermeneutics
12. The Trials of Truth: Mission, Martyrdom & the Epistemology of the Cross

Index of Names
Index of Subjects