The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New
The Ology by best-selling author Marty Machowski clearly explains deep theological truths with everyday examples and simple language that kids can understand.
This Bible study for the entire family begins with a story set in the cellar of the old stone cathedral. There Carla and Timothy uncover a life-changing treasure: a carefully wrapped, ancient book known as The Ology. From there, young readers will launch into a journey of discovery to get to know who God is and how we, as his children, relate to him.
This beginner’s study of systematic theology takes abstract concepts in the Bible and makes them easier to comprehend with the use of illustrations, creative analogies, and word pictures. Arranged within a traditional systematic theological framework, each truth in The Ology is also connected to the Bible’s larger redemptive story. Scripture on every page reinforces each concept and encourages further study. The Ology aims to create a hunger and desire in children to learn more as they grow older.
- Full-color illustrations by Andy McGuire capture the attention of younger readers.
- Written for elementary-age children and includes built-in adaptations so the entire family can enjoy it together.
- Seventy-one chapters cover a wide range of theological topics, including the study of God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the church, God’s Word, sin, personal change, and more.
- A complete 52-week Sunday school and homeschool curriculum for upper elementary-aged children based on the content of The Ology is also available.
- A companion album by Sovereign Grace Music celebrating these wonderful theological truths is also available at sovereigngracemusic.org.
Marty Machowski is an executive pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church in Glen Mills, PA, where he has served on the pastoral staff for over thirty years. He is the best-selling author of a number of family devotionals, curricula (including the Gospel Story for Kids), children’s books, and parenting titles. Recent releases include The Ology Curriculum Package, The Spirit-Led Family, The Sword, God and Me, and the Redemption Tales series. He and his wife, Lois, have six children and several grandchildren, and reside in West Chester, PA.
Andy McGuire is a writer, illustrator, and editor. He illustrated the book, The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New and WonderFull: Ancient Psalms Ever New authored by Marty Machowski, as well as The Things God Made and Remy the Rhino Learns Patience, which he both wrote and illustrated himself. Andy lives in Minnesota with his wife, Becky, and their two children.
"Few tasks are of greater importance than the discipling of children. Christian parents and Sunday school teachers, committed to biblical fidelity, cannot neglect the tremendous task of teaching children the great truths of Scripture. Marty Machowski's The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New is a wonderful new book that will equip parents for the task of discipleship and also help children immerse themselves in the Christian worldview."
R. Albert Mohler, Jr., President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
"I love good children's books, and this one is truly beautiful, both in its words and pictures. Machowski meets children where they are and tells them the greatest story of all. The best part is, it's true!"
Joel R. Beeke, President of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, Michigan
"The Ology has quickly become my favorite introduction to Christianity for children. Machowski has brilliantly written this systematic theology as a story—the great Story. He writes with a profound simplicity that children will understand, yet with a depth and beauty that will move adults to worship. And he makes the gospel crystal clear. This book is a wonderful resource for family worship or children's devotions."
Jon Bloom, Chair & cofounder, Desiring God; author
"The Ology is a beautifully illustrated book. That in itself will hold the attention of children. But the words carefully unfold the teaching of Scripture in a way that doesn't talk down to children but talks to them, lifting up their understanding of the triune God as Creator and Redeemer. Marty Machowski has given the church a valuable resource for parents and others wanting to disciple the young."
Richard B. Gaffin, Jr., Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology, Emeritus, Westminster Theological Seminary
"Appealing, truthful, and comprehensive, Marty Machowski has written The Ology as a systematic theology accessible to children. I can see parents reading this book while their children snuggle beside them or sit on their lap and listen. Little ones will enjoy looking at this beautifully illustrated volume as their parents read it to them. It's also the kind of book you can read to your children again and again. When they are old enough, they'll want to read it on their own. Can you ask for more in a Christian book for children?"
Don Whitney, Professor of Biblical Spirituality, Associate Dean for the School of Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
"Every child—and every parent—is already a theologian. The question is what kind of theologian we will be. Will our children grow up learning sound doctrine, rightly dividing the word of truth? Or will they end up fashioning a god—and a theology—in their own image? There are many good theologians in the church today, and many teachers who love children. But few are a combination of both like Marty Machowski. I am delighted to commend this engaging resource to help all of us know and worship the God of the Bible!"
Justin Taylor, Managing editor, ESV Study Bible; coauthor, The Final Days of Jesus
"This marvelous book works on every level: It is thoroughly biblical, doctrinally sound, gospel-centered, well written, and exquisitely illustrated. Though intended for children, The Ology will also be of immense help to their parents, relatives, and friends. I intend to buy this book for my grandchildren and read it together with them over and over and over again. I can't give The Ology a higher endorsement than that!"
Gregg R. Allison, Professor of Christian Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; secretary of the Evangelical Theological Society; pastor and author
"I love Marty Machowski's books, and even better, so do my children. The Ology is another beautiful and creative book meant to expose children to the deepest and most important truths. I am reading it with my children, and would encourage you to do the same."
Tim Challies, Blogger at www.challies.com
"This well-illustrated book clearly and logically introduces theology for children."
Andy Naselli, Assistant Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology at Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis
"The Ology is a great answer to the dilemma of how parents can introduce their children to biblical theology. We must go beyond Bible stories and 'be nice' morality. Memorizing a catechism seldom works in today's world. Marty Machowski brings solid reformed theological truth into a most attractive and understandable format. Parents everywhere will rejoice to see their children 'get it' as they work through The Ology together."
Gerry Breshears, Professor of Theology, Western Seminary, Portland
"From the beginning God revealed himself to his people that they might know him, love him, and be his beloved children. Theology was for all of God's people, not just seminary professors! The Ology takes us back to this earlier understanding, using story and art to make scriptural truth understandable and real to all of God's children, regardless of age. I eagerly look forward to reading The Ology with my grandson!"
R. J. Gore Jr., Professor of Systematic Theology and Acting Dean Erskine Theological Seminary, Due West, SC
"Marty Machowski has provided parents with a valuable resource to raise up their children 'in the discipline and instruction of the Lord' (Eph. 6:4). The Ology is biblically saturated, theologically rich, clearly written, and helpfully illustrated. May the Spirit use this book to establish the next generation on the rock of God's Word (Matt. 7:24–27) and produce disciples who follow Jesus for a lifetime!"
Matthew S. Harmon, Professor of New Testament Studies, Grace Theological Seminary
"The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New is a special book. It provides a visual means for teaching a child the basic, biblical doctrines that we as believers love. With the need for greater biblical and theological literacy in the church today, I believe that The Ology can engage and teach both children and adults together. Children's catechisms are a great tool for memorizing theological concepts but The Ology, with it beautiful and creative art work, as well as its vibrant storytelling style, provides a sound learning tool in book form that will stimulate listening, learning, questioning, and discovery. God's truth will come alive to the families who use it. I highly recommend this solid work for use in teaching and training children in basic Christian doctrine. Children will enjoy learning theology from The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New!"
Rod Culbertson, Jr., Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte, NC
"Systematic theology can conjure up images of big, dusty books. Can it be engaging for kids? If you say no, The Ology will surprise you. Discover what election has to do with earthworm chunk ice cream . . . or eschatology with an ant flying a car. Marty Machowski is an artful storyteller. Andy McGuire's illustrations are beautiful. Their children's theology is both surprisingly winsome and biblically faithful. Thanks be to God!"
Jared Kennedy, Pastor of Families at Sojourn Community Church in Louisville, KY
"Many parents struggle to teach their children systematic theology, or even lead family devotions. The Ology will help you do both. Marty has made another significant contribution to biblically faithful, gospel-centered, creatively designed, accessible materials that help parents raise their kids not merely to know about God, but to have a relationship with him through Jesus Christ."
Bob Kauflin, Director of Sovereign Grace Music
"The Ology turns the study of what Bible students recognize as 'Systematic Theology' into lessons blended into a story for kids 6–12 years of age. Covering all the major topics of the Bible in a comprehensive way, it draws kids in with vivid illustrations, both in words and pictures. I know this is going to be a big hit for parents who want a family worship tool, and for their children to grasp the key subjects the Bible raises. A perfect companion to Marty's other books."
Dennis Gundersen, Author, Grace & Truth Books
ISBN-13: 9781942572282
Author: Marty Machowski
Publication Date: 10/01/2015
Format: Hardback
Page Count: 272
Case Quantity: 16
Age Level: 5-8 Years, 8-12 Years
Series: The Kid's Theology
BISAC Category 1: RELIGION / Christian Education / Children & Youth
Weight: 2.35
Height: 8.75 in
Width: 8.75 in
Depth: 0.9 in
The Ology by best-selling author Marty Machowski clearly explains deep theological truths with everyday examples and simple language that kids can understand.
This Bible study for the entire family begins with a story set in the cellar of the old stone cathedral. There Carla and Timothy uncover a life-changing treasure: a carefully wrapped, ancient book known as The Ology. From there, young readers will launch into a journey of discovery to get to know who God is and how we, as his children, relate to him.
This beginner’s study of systematic theology takes abstract concepts in the Bible and makes them easier to comprehend with the use of illustrations, creative analogies, and word pictures. Arranged within a traditional systematic theological framework, each truth in The Ology is also connected to the Bible’s larger redemptive story. Scripture on every page reinforces each concept and encourages further study. The Ology aims to create a hunger and desire in children to learn more as they grow older.
- Full-color illustrations by Andy McGuire capture the attention of younger readers.
- Written for elementary-age children and includes built-in adaptations so the entire family can enjoy it together.
- Seventy-one chapters cover a wide range of theological topics, including the study of God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the church, God’s Word, sin, personal change, and more.
- A complete 52-week Sunday school and homeschool curriculum for upper elementary-aged children based on the content of The Ology is also available.
- A companion album by Sovereign Grace Music celebrating these wonderful theological truths is also available at sovereigngracemusic.org.
Marty Machowski is an executive pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church in Glen Mills, PA, where he has served on the pastoral staff for over thirty years. He is the best-selling author of a number of family devotionals, curricula (including the Gospel Story for Kids), children’s books, and parenting titles. Recent releases include The Ology Curriculum Package, The Spirit-Led Family, The Sword, God and Me, and the Redemption Tales series. He and his wife, Lois, have six children and several grandchildren, and reside in West Chester, PA.
Andy McGuire is a writer, illustrator, and editor. He illustrated the book, The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New and WonderFull: Ancient Psalms Ever New authored by Marty Machowski, as well as The Things God Made and Remy the Rhino Learns Patience, which he both wrote and illustrated himself. Andy lives in Minnesota with his wife, Becky, and their two children.
"Few tasks are of greater importance than the discipling of children. Christian parents and Sunday school teachers, committed to biblical fidelity, cannot neglect the tremendous task of teaching children the great truths of Scripture. Marty Machowski's The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New is a wonderful new book that will equip parents for the task of discipleship and also help children immerse themselves in the Christian worldview."
R. Albert Mohler, Jr., President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
"I love good children's books, and this one is truly beautiful, both in its words and pictures. Machowski meets children where they are and tells them the greatest story of all. The best part is, it's true!"
Joel R. Beeke, President of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, Michigan
"The Ology has quickly become my favorite introduction to Christianity for children. Machowski has brilliantly written this systematic theology as a story—the great Story. He writes with a profound simplicity that children will understand, yet with a depth and beauty that will move adults to worship. And he makes the gospel crystal clear. This book is a wonderful resource for family worship or children's devotions."
Jon Bloom, Chair & cofounder, Desiring God; author
"The Ology is a beautifully illustrated book. That in itself will hold the attention of children. But the words carefully unfold the teaching of Scripture in a way that doesn't talk down to children but talks to them, lifting up their understanding of the triune God as Creator and Redeemer. Marty Machowski has given the church a valuable resource for parents and others wanting to disciple the young."
Richard B. Gaffin, Jr., Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology, Emeritus, Westminster Theological Seminary
"Appealing, truthful, and comprehensive, Marty Machowski has written The Ology as a systematic theology accessible to children. I can see parents reading this book while their children snuggle beside them or sit on their lap and listen. Little ones will enjoy looking at this beautifully illustrated volume as their parents read it to them. It's also the kind of book you can read to your children again and again. When they are old enough, they'll want to read it on their own. Can you ask for more in a Christian book for children?"
Don Whitney, Professor of Biblical Spirituality, Associate Dean for the School of Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
"Every child—and every parent—is already a theologian. The question is what kind of theologian we will be. Will our children grow up learning sound doctrine, rightly dividing the word of truth? Or will they end up fashioning a god—and a theology—in their own image? There are many good theologians in the church today, and many teachers who love children. But few are a combination of both like Marty Machowski. I am delighted to commend this engaging resource to help all of us know and worship the God of the Bible!"
Justin Taylor, Managing editor, ESV Study Bible; coauthor, The Final Days of Jesus
"This marvelous book works on every level: It is thoroughly biblical, doctrinally sound, gospel-centered, well written, and exquisitely illustrated. Though intended for children, The Ology will also be of immense help to their parents, relatives, and friends. I intend to buy this book for my grandchildren and read it together with them over and over and over again. I can't give The Ology a higher endorsement than that!"
Gregg R. Allison, Professor of Christian Theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; secretary of the Evangelical Theological Society; pastor and author
"I love Marty Machowski's books, and even better, so do my children. The Ology is another beautiful and creative book meant to expose children to the deepest and most important truths. I am reading it with my children, and would encourage you to do the same."
Tim Challies, Blogger at www.challies.com
"This well-illustrated book clearly and logically introduces theology for children."
Andy Naselli, Assistant Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology at Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis
"The Ology is a great answer to the dilemma of how parents can introduce their children to biblical theology. We must go beyond Bible stories and 'be nice' morality. Memorizing a catechism seldom works in today's world. Marty Machowski brings solid reformed theological truth into a most attractive and understandable format. Parents everywhere will rejoice to see their children 'get it' as they work through The Ology together."
Gerry Breshears, Professor of Theology, Western Seminary, Portland
"From the beginning God revealed himself to his people that they might know him, love him, and be his beloved children. Theology was for all of God's people, not just seminary professors! The Ology takes us back to this earlier understanding, using story and art to make scriptural truth understandable and real to all of God's children, regardless of age. I eagerly look forward to reading The Ology with my grandson!"
R. J. Gore Jr., Professor of Systematic Theology and Acting Dean Erskine Theological Seminary, Due West, SC
"Marty Machowski has provided parents with a valuable resource to raise up their children 'in the discipline and instruction of the Lord' (Eph. 6:4). The Ology is biblically saturated, theologically rich, clearly written, and helpfully illustrated. May the Spirit use this book to establish the next generation on the rock of God's Word (Matt. 7:24–27) and produce disciples who follow Jesus for a lifetime!"
Matthew S. Harmon, Professor of New Testament Studies, Grace Theological Seminary
"The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New is a special book. It provides a visual means for teaching a child the basic, biblical doctrines that we as believers love. With the need for greater biblical and theological literacy in the church today, I believe that The Ology can engage and teach both children and adults together. Children's catechisms are a great tool for memorizing theological concepts but The Ology, with it beautiful and creative art work, as well as its vibrant storytelling style, provides a sound learning tool in book form that will stimulate listening, learning, questioning, and discovery. God's truth will come alive to the families who use it. I highly recommend this solid work for use in teaching and training children in basic Christian doctrine. Children will enjoy learning theology from The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New!"
Rod Culbertson, Jr., Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte, NC
"Systematic theology can conjure up images of big, dusty books. Can it be engaging for kids? If you say no, The Ology will surprise you. Discover what election has to do with earthworm chunk ice cream . . . or eschatology with an ant flying a car. Marty Machowski is an artful storyteller. Andy McGuire's illustrations are beautiful. Their children's theology is both surprisingly winsome and biblically faithful. Thanks be to God!"
Jared Kennedy, Pastor of Families at Sojourn Community Church in Louisville, KY
"Many parents struggle to teach their children systematic theology, or even lead family devotions. The Ology will help you do both. Marty has made another significant contribution to biblically faithful, gospel-centered, creatively designed, accessible materials that help parents raise their kids not merely to know about God, but to have a relationship with him through Jesus Christ."
Bob Kauflin, Director of Sovereign Grace Music
"The Ology turns the study of what Bible students recognize as 'Systematic Theology' into lessons blended into a story for kids 6–12 years of age. Covering all the major topics of the Bible in a comprehensive way, it draws kids in with vivid illustrations, both in words and pictures. I know this is going to be a big hit for parents who want a family worship tool, and for their children to grasp the key subjects the Bible raises. A perfect companion to Marty's other books."
Dennis Gundersen, Author, Grace & Truth Books
ISBN-13: 9781942572282
Author: Marty Machowski
Publication Date: 10/01/2015
Format: Hardback
Page Count: 272
Case Quantity: 16
Age Level: 5-8 Years, 8-12 Years
Series: The Kid's Theology
BISAC Category 1: RELIGION / Christian Education / Children & Youth
Weight: 2.35
Height: 8.75 in
Width: 8.75 in
Depth: 0.9 in
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Crystal clear and excellent theology. Perfect for adults to go deeper with their kids and has helpful Bible references that correspond with the content. The artwork is beautiful, creative, fun and engaging!
Absolutely fantastic childrens devotional. I have done it with my kids many times! 10/10
Got this as part of reading for home school. It has beautiful illustrations and is well written.
Great book. Makes the concepts understandable for small children (4 and 5yo).
Working on round 2 with my children (between 2-6 years old)
I’ve been using this as a devotional with my kids at breakfast and we really enjoyed it! It did a great job of introducing theological truths in a kid friendly way without being cheesy. My kids loved the pictures.
Little systematic book for kiddos. Perfect for family devotions
This is great, even if the intro is a somewhat cheesy copy of The Magic Tree House. Kids won’t care. Buy it. It has compact, core explanations of the mysteries of Christian faith, explained efficiently in kid language, but not watered down. My 5 year old son will greatly benefit, because he has some deep questions. My explanations were helplessly teenager-level because my Sunday school taught stories without theology. Jesus loves me is the important part, but *where* the Bible tells me so is the rock. Other books like this seem either aimless, or focused on apologetics-for-biology-class (rather than salvation by faith alone and the attributes of God) which is always a great setup for college apostasy.
A new classic; will be checking this out from the library many more times to read in the future.
Thoughts:
• This is one of the most interesting children's books I've read. It's pretty much a systematic theology for kids.
• The art is pretty cool! I'd describe it as warmly quirky.
• Sometimes the writing made me wonder which age group this is best suited for - some examples seem too childish for older kids but some phrasing might fly above the heads of younger ones. But on the whole, I love the idea of introducing kids to deep theological concepts, because really theology is for anyone and everyone - everyone is a theologian, regardless of age. This seems great for cultivating thoughtful curiosity in kids and adults alike.
• I like how the author is quite neutral about some secondary level issues, namely paedobaptism (some families choose to baptise their infants and some families choose to wait until they are old enough to want to, but it doesn't make much practical difference in how Christian kids are raised), and the timing of the parousia (some have tried to predict it but only the Father knows!). This approach is helpful, it models theological triage and opens up questions from kids and prompts parents/teachers/leaders to thoughtfully explain.
• There is a glossary and a list of discussion points at the end of the book. I like how each page includes a key verse, with other relevant verses referenced on the illustrations.
• I'd have appreciated having a book like this when I was younger, it would have given my nerdy kid self plenty of things to think about and heaps of big questions to ponder.
• This has prompted me to think about how I could explain some chunky concepts to kids and teens and also consider some of the questions they might ask in response.
"I get it... The Ology is only the beginning. It's meant to point us back to God's Word."
love using these for our bible time/devotional.
A quick read each day that dives into different aspects of our faith and what we believe. My boys looked forward to me reading it during our read aloud time.
Enjoyed this one with the kids during breakfast each morning! Will probably revisit at some point.
Wonderful book! Briefly explains all important concepts of the Christian faith, and each concept is illustrated with a simple story/analogy that is easy for a 5-12-year-old to understand. The drawings are beautiful too. Both my husband, my 5-year-old, and I appreciate this book of systematic theology.
This is a classic and excellent follow up to Jesus story Bible.. For kids in the 4-10 yo range. Stunning illustrations, tons of scripture references, and relevant questions for discussions. I've got to order three of them for my grandkids!
4.25 stars. An excellent book that conveys the Biblical story in a way that young elementary aged kids can grasp and without losing too much of the potency of scripture.* * Any book that attempts to do this will have some issues, after all it is an interpretation of scripture and not scripture itself. That being said that is one of the best attempts I have seen and any issues I came across on the first reading were minor or can be read around.
It's too whimsical for the academic level that would be ready to absorb the theology it presents. And too long winded and hard to understand for the young age that would be drawn to it's whimsical-ness. At least, that's how it was for my kids.
This book has nice pictures, good Scripture references, and the truths are understandable for children
Well made book that describes the biblical truths on a child’s level. We’ve incorporated it into our family worship and have really enjoyed it so far!
We enjoyed this overall, but I was disappointed by the discussion of Eve’s part in the fall and the failure of Adam to lead and protect. The description was feministic and individualistic without a proper portrayal of headship. Otherwise the systematic theology was good. This was the first book of this kind that I’ve seen directed towards children.
I didn't agree with every single one of Machowski's theological views (we skipped 1 or 2 chapters) but this is a great book for teaching littles about the basics of faith.
This is my son and mine’s second time through this book. I had just finished my own systematic theology class and loved how this book covered pretty much everything I had just gone over, but in a way my son could understand. He was six the first time and he grasped even more now that he is seven. We stuck to just the story portion of the book and as he gets older we will add the questions and additional Bible verses that are provided for more in-depth study. I plan to do this once a year with him.
This book is one for the family to keep and read for the generations. Just beautifully written and illustrated. Easy reading and subject matter so clearly taught.
So deep and yet simple enough anyone can understand it.
What a great starter book to teach theology to kids. We are using it as a dinnertime devotional. The illustrations are beautiful and the content is perfect for 6-10 years old. Especially if you take the time to look up the included Scripture verses. My kids have been loving looking up the Bible passages that go along with what we are learning about. It’s sparked some great conversations!
My 5 year old loves reading a chapter from this pretty much daily. It’s exceptionally written!
While the book is excellent, the suggested age range is a bit optimistically broad for the presentation. I'd put this at upper age range of about 8.
I thought this book would be more of a story type book, but still full of great facts about God. Great for learning about God and the Bible.
This book starts with a short story about children finding an old book and when they open it, they begin learning ‘ancient truths’ from the mysterious book. The book is Gospel centered and packed with teachings about Who God Is and the importance of faith in the One who created all, as well as answering important questions about good and evil.
Excellent resource to explain what can be a complex subject to children. Illustrations are beautiful
I don't have any kids at home but keep this book on my shelf for help as I prepare Bible lessons for Children's Church. The language used to explain harder truths and the illustrations have been very beneficial for me as I teach children at church. I would recommend this to anyone who is teaching children God's Word.