Christian education may be understood as the product of the creative interpenetration of a historical context, a personal process of growth, an educational science and art, and a working theology. In this introductory text in the philosophy and theology of christian education, Dr Rood uses a unique approach designed specifically to present the basic issue and provide thought-provoking perspectives. The main areas of study are introduced by a brief biographical sketch of a major thinker. Horace Bushnell, sometimes called the father of the Christian education movement in America, provides the starting point for discussion. Experimentalism, personalism, and essentialism are presented as the principle options for Christian education. Various viewpoints and emphases are drawn together, and the student is encouraged to make his own assessments.