For 150 years, both in England and in the American colonies, The Marrow of Theology , by William Ames, was the standard theological work for ministers. It is b iblical, succinct, and well-organized. Increase Mather once said that, other than the Bible, this was the only book of theology a minister needed. My first introduction to Puritan theology in seminary was through the reading of this book. After reading the first chapter I was hooked on Ames. I was grabbed at the outset by his definition and nature of theology. The following excerpts of that chapter are words I need to read and reread often. My penchant for dwelling only in my thought life needs to be continually challenged with full-orbed "living to God." Here is how Ames defines theology... "Theology is the doctrine or teaching of living to God. John 6:68, The words of eternal life ; Acts 5:20, the words of this life ; Romans 6:11, Consider yourselves...alive to God ." "...[it i...