Erik Thoennes

Erik Thoennes is a professor and department chair of biblical and theological studies at Biola University and a pastor at Grace Evangelical Free Church in La Mirada, California. Previously he taught at Wheaton College and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He is the author of numerous articles and several books. Thoennes is committed to teaching biblical and systematic theology so that he and his students love God and people more fully. He strives to make the necessary connections between the study of theology, obedience to Jesus and fulfilling the Great Commission. Thoennes has received the University award for faculty excellence and professor of the year. His research interests include godly jealousy, the atonement, the exclusivity of Christ and theology of culture.

Affiliation Faculty
Position Professor of Theology

Author's books

Bible Doctrine Workbook : Study Questions and Practical Exercises for Learning the Essential Teachings of the Christian Faith

The Bible Doctrine Workbook accompanies Wayne Grudem’s highly regarded Bible Doctrine. Following the textbook’s structure, the Workbook features review material and exercises for every chapter, and all major areas of Christian doctrine are covered. The Workbook maintains the clear writing, friendly tone, and frequent applications to life found in the textbook. Students will benefit from this hands-on engagement with the important teachings in Bible Doctrine.

Biblical and Theological Studies: A Student’s Guide

In this book, Michael J. Wilkins and Erik Thoennes team up to offer readers a robust introduction to biblical and theological studies. This readable guide outlines a distinctly evangelical approach to studying the Bible and theology, highlighting the proper methods for understanding and synthesizing the teachings of the Bible, leading to deeper knowledge of God, ourselves, and how we are to meaningfully apply his Word to our lives.

Confident Witness: Evangelism and Apologetics for the 21st Century

Essay Collection Offers Colleges and Students a Practical Introduction to Evangelism. Inclusivism, universalism, and other secular cultural trends are dominating higher education and the world at large. Are Christian universities making the most of their unique position to advance the gospel in the 21st century? Compiling essays from various Christian scholars, Confident Witness helps educators and students understand the importance of evangelism in every generation. Edited by David S. Dockery, president of the International Alliance for Christian Education, the chapters cover a variety of topics, including the theological foundation of evangelism; discipleship and apologetics; evangelism in church history; and evangelism in a post-Christian context. Uniting influential voices in Christian higher education, Confident Witness challenges students to take an active part in God’s salvation work through direct, urgent communication of the gospel.

Godly Jealousy: A Theology of Intolerant Love

As human jealousy is seldom uncontaminated with sin, it tends only to be understood as a negative emotion. However, the Bible tells us that God is a jealous God, and Erik Thoennes offers us unique insights into Godly Jealousy as taught in Scripture, and also looks closely at biblical leaders who displayed Godly human jealousy. Thoennes masterfully draws ethical and theological implications from godly jealousy for the 21st Century. This book is a must-read for anyone who is concerned with character development and who seeks to know the central values needed in the church today.

Marriage: Its Foundation, Theology, and Mission in a Changing World

What we believe about marriage reflects what we believe about God. God designed marriage to tell us about Himself—to showcase His love, commitment and redemption. What does it mean, then, that many Christians today aren’t sure what marriage is or why it matters? Could it be that while we were busy defending marriage (or trying not to offend the world) we actually lost sight of its original purpose and beauty? We must learn to speak wisely, biblically, and winsomely about marriage. The book you hold in your hand represents 4 years and thousands of hours of work from 40 experts on this crucial topic. These theologians, professors, pastors, and counselors have written on diverse topics related to marriage—from the way neuroscience upholds love to the challenges of dealing with broken relationships. All so that you can better understand and express the beauty and truth of God-honoring and world-changing marriage. Marriage is the great issue of our day. If you want to lead well, it’s time to prepare yourself for the conversations ahead.

Systematic Theology Workbook

This workbook accompanies the second edition of Wayne Grudem’s highly regarded Systematic Theology. Following the textbook’s structure, it features review material and exercises for every chapter, and all major areas of Christian doctrine are covered. The workbook further maintains the clear writing, friendly tone, and frequent applications to life found in the textbook. Students will benefit from this hands-on engagement with the important teachings in Systematic Theology.