Elements of Christian Faith

In this introductory textbook, David H. Jensen offers an accessible understanding of Christian theology through the examination of six life-sustaining elements—earth, wind, fire, water, flesh, and blood—expertly linking faith to the ordinary realities of life. Christian faith turns our attention to the life of the world, revealing the extraordinary in the ordinary. In Elements of Christian Faith, Jensen offers an innovative introduction to theology, grounding Christian belief in the basic elements that sustain life, giving readers the chance to encounter key aspects of faith: creation, the Spirit, hope, the sacraments, the human person, and Jesus Christ. Jensen’s elemental approach illuminates how Christian faith intersects with daily life. A meal of bread and wine becomes a celebration of Christ’s presence in community; a bath is a promise of forgiveness and new life; the story of Jesus becomes a lens for understanding God’s care for all creation. By focusing on the ordinary, this book reconnects theology to the material world, human bodies, and ecological responsibility, fostering reflection on contemporary challenges such as climate change, water shortages, racism, and immigration. Designed as a textbook for beginning undergraduate and seminary students, each chapter is structured to guide readers through four steps: biblical descriptions of the element, historical misinterpretations, constructive theological insights, and a Christian response to contemporary concerns. Reflection questions conclude every chapter, encouraging active engagement and thoughtful discussion. With its non-doctrinal emphasis and focus on creation and human experience, this book invites readers both within and beyond the Christian tradition to explore theology in a way that is grounded, accessible, and deeply connected to the life of the world.