The Ology by best-selling children's author Marty Machowski is a stunningly illustrated beginner's theology book to help kids of all ages understand who God is and how we, as his children, relate to him.
Arranged within a traditional systematic theological framework, each truth in The Ology is also connected to the larger redemptive story of Scripture. This storybook of systematic theology takes abstract concepts in the Bible and makes them easier to understand with the use of creative examples, illustrations, and analogies.
The Ology is a starting point to learning theology and aims to create a hunger and desire in children to learn more as they grow older. Designed for six-year-olds through preteens, this flexible resource includes built-in adaptations so the entire families can enjoy it together.
The story begins in the cellar of the old stone cathedral, where Carla and Timothy uncover a life-changing treasure: a carefully wrapped, ancient book known as The Ology. Young readers will discover a tale of adventure, mystery, and wonder, which will lead them to the truth about God, themselves, and the world around them.
As a father to six children, Machowski knows how to intentionally create a vivid resource, full of analogies and word pictures to help kids grasp difficult theological concepts. Read The Ology to preschoolers; read it with grade-school kids, and let older kids discover the "hidden" truths by reading the corresponding Scripture passages for each section.
However you read it, The Ology will give your children a gift that will last a lifetime—a solid foundation of transformative biblical truth that will point them to the God who loves them and gave himself for them.
There is also a companion album to The Ology by Sovereign Grace Music that celebrates these wonderful theological truths through worship music that the whole family can enjoy.
AUTHOR
Marty Machowski is a Family Life Pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, where he has served on the pastoral staff for over thirty years. He is the author of The Gospel Story Bible, Long Story Short, Old Story New, the Gospel Story Curriculum, the Prepare Him Room advent devotional and curriculum, Wise Up family devotional and curriculum, Listen Up family devotional and curriculum, Dragon Seed, The Ology, Don't Blame the Mud, Parenting First Aid, and Parenting First Aid Study Guide. He and his wife, Lois, have six children and two grandchildren, and they reside in West Chester, Pennsylvania.
ILLUSTRATOR
Andy McGuire is a writer, illustrator, and editor. He illustrated the book, The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New authored by Marty Machowski. Andy lives in Minnesota with his wife, Becky, and their two children, Charlie and Jane.
"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
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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.
LOVE this book! I think it is perfect for 5-12 year olds. The content is truth-filled, Scripture-based, and just beautifully illustrated. The book is broken up into 71 short theological truths, for example "Breaking One Law Breaks the Whole Law" and "Jesus is Completely God" with analogies that help children understand the concept. Just what you need and want in books for your church or home book collection, right?! I put this out on our Greeter Desk at church because this is FANTASTIC and I want parents and leaders to engage with this!!
This is the best book I have found for children or non believers on the Gospel. It is expensive, but worth it. A beautiful book, good size and well written with lovely illustrations. Praying it will impact many for Christ.
Ages from 6-9. Should of waited to order for my 6 year old great granddaughter until older, but her grandmother will read it to her. Illustrations great. Too early to make ideal review, just bought
A biblically sound book for young people. We use it occasionally as a devotional book. I pick and choose topics that my children (ages 3 and 5) can understand. I'd say it's written for ages 6 and up at least. It's not just the vocabulary but the analogies given cam be difficult to follow for littles. I'm glad to have it on hand to grow into though. Definitely recommend! We will stick to using Leading Little Ones to God primarily as our devotional in the meantime.
Who is God? Where did He come from? Why did Jesus need to die? These are all questions that my kids asked in their growing up years. And while the Bible is the ultimate authority for answering these and other questions, The Ology by Marty Machowski is a great resource for parents and kids to discover the truth about God. With its beautiful illustrations, the short and on point explanations and the accompanying Scripture, The Ology is definitely a book to add to your familyÕs library. The story begins as Carla and Timothy discover an ancient book that tells the story of God. Each story and section lead the children systematically through what the Bible teaches. The book is designed for children and their parents to explore together the treasures of God. There is scripture to memorize, a glossary to explain Bible words, and discussion questions for each topic. Each topic is explained in a general way. For example, the topic of Baptism is explained in its Biblical application with a brief discussion of how churches carry out its command. The Ology is a good resource and starting point for parents. ItÕs certainly important to teach kids the truth in light of the worldÕs opinions and perceptions. Sunday School is great, but real teaching begins at home. In fact, The Ology can be used to expand what your kids learn from their small group lessons and the pastorÕs sermon. Recommended.
We read this book every night before bed with our daughter. It has proven invaluable for teaching her about Jesus and the doctrines of God. I love the whimsical play in the title of, "The Ology." Well written with pictures that children can relate to. Solid theology for children, yet adults can also learn from it.
We love this book. It's worth reading and re-reading. There is a lot of material to use. We read the main parts, and the will go back and look at all of the verses and references next time through. Our 4- and 5-year-olds enjoyed it.
Very well written! Easy to understand! Great illustrations! This book aligns beautifully with the catechism. The lessons are short and hold my children's attention.
This is an excellent book for young readers who want to find out more about GOD and the Bible!!