In his landmark 1993 work The Millenarian World of Early Mormonism, Grant Underwood established himself as a scholar of high caliber, capable of articulating the complex historical and theological developments of the Restoration with remarkable clarity. His newest offering, Latter-day Saint Theology among Christian Theologies (published by Eerdmans), represents the culmination of decades of ecumenical dialogue and serious historical inquiry. In this impressive volume, Underwood seeks to move beyond the polemics that have often characterized interfaith comparisons, providing instead a clear-eyed and gracious analysis of how Latter-day Saint thought occupies a legitimate place within the broader Christian landscape.

A Systematic Dialogue

Most chapters follow a consistent format: he introduces a major theological theme—ranging from the nature of God and Christology to ecclesiology and the afterlife (the topics of the chapters are based on approaches used in systematic theology in Christianity more broadly)—provides an overview of significant Christian reflection throughout the centuries, and explores Latter-day Saint thought on the same subject. This comparative approach is designed for an interested Christian audience, aiming to facilitate mutual understanding by translating unfamiliar terms and concepts into a shared theological vocabulary.

One of the book’s greatest successes is Underwood’s ability to define specialized philosophical and theological terms seamlessly within the text. This makes the work approachable for casual readers without sacrificing the scholarly depth that academic students of religion require. However, there are still enough Greek and Latin terms for specific ideas that it was hard to keep track of which one meant which idea at times when it was referenced again. In any case, it is a work that endeavors to “analyze, not catechize,” and it does so with a sensitivity that reflects Underwood’s deep appreciation for the diverse voices within the global Christian community.

New Intersections and Orthodox Insights

For the Latter-day Saint reader, the book offers several points of intersection that may come as a welcome surprise. I was particularly struck by Underwood’s comparison of the concept of Common Consent to the Catholic traditions of consensus fidelium and sensus fidei. These kinds of comparisons help ground our unique practices in a longer history of Christian reflection on the voice of the faithful.

Furthermore, Underwood is careful to include Eastern Orthodoxy in his comparative studies. This is an area that has often received insufficient attention in our theological discourse, and Underwood’s inclusion of these perspectives adds a layer of richness that distinguishes this book from many other comparative works that lean heavily on Western Protestant or Catholic models.

Audience and Utility

While Latter-day Saint Theology among Christian Theologies is a monumental achievement, it does occupy a somewhat niche position. It is primarily geared toward Christians of other faiths who wish to gain a deeper understanding of Mormonism through the lens of systematic theology. Because it is not officially directed toward Latter-day Saints, some members may find the “outsider-in” perspective slightly different from our internal devotional literature.

In terms of recommendations, this volume is an essential introduction to Mormon thought for scholars and bridge-builders. However, for the general LDS Church member seeking a comprehensive internal understanding of our foundations, I do not believe it will displace Terryl Givens’s seminal two-volume series, Wrestling the Angel and Feeding the Flock. Underwood comes close, providing an indispensable analysis that complements Givens’s work by showing how our theology resonates with the “sought understanding” of the broader Christian world.

Conclusion

Grant Underwood has provided an invaluable service with Latter-day Saint Theology among Christian Theologies. It is a work of intellectual honesty and profound pastoral grace. By situating Latter-day Saint beliefs alongside core elements of Christian theology with consummate care, Underwood has produced a landmark publication. It is a vital tool for anyone looking to bridge gaps of understanding and a powerful witness that Latter-day Saint thought belongs in the great conversation of Christian history.