Praise for Previous Editions:

“This is a rare book in its synthesis of rich sources in family scientific theory with a theological version of the meaning and purpose of the family. I consider this book an excellent resource for preachers and teachers and an obvious choice for a text in family studies in a Christian college.”—Peter L. VanKatwyk, Calvin Theological Journal

“The Balswicks are well qualified in experience and education to write such a book. . . . The book is divided into seven parts, each one containing extensive research and analysis of the dynamics that affect marriage and the family. The authors discuss in considerable detail various social systems, comparing those that are traditional and cultural with those that are developing in our world today. Significant research data is shown that reveals the varying influences and their impact on the family. . . . This is not your everyday, easy-read, feel-good book on the family that involves ten steps for improving relationships. It is more suited for analysis in the college classroom. It is well worth the effort and investment, but will demand time and considerable analysis.”—Danny Dwyer, Integrity: A Journal of Christian Thought

“This Christian perspective on the contemporary home, based upon social science research, clinical insight, and biblical truths, is skillfully written and extremely insightful. Almost everything a person would like to know about the family and its many stages, functions, and problems is included.”—Wesley Engstrom, Evangelical Beacon

“No other book has been written [on family living] from a Christian perspective with as much care as this one by the Balswicks. . . . Christian workers anxious to update their libraries with one readable, yet pertinent, book on family concerns will want to add this book and will refer to it frequently.”—Joyce Carroll, Reformed Review

“An excellent text . . . from a distinctively Christian perspective, integrating the very best of theology, ethics, and biblical studies with the social sciences and clinical perspectives. Pastors will find this text a superb update on Christian family life.”—Guy Greenfield, Southwestern Journal of Theology

“Jack and Judith Balswick have met a critical need in the study of the family by integrating the disciplines of theology and sociology in a readable introductory text. The reader looking for simple prescriptions will not find them in the Balswicks’ text but will find instead thought-provoking reflection and an honest attempt to do meaningful integration. . . . This book is profitable for the serious student as well as the parent looking for help.”—Jonathan D. Rohrer, Criswell Theological Review

“A well-written text. . . . In style and content, the book is an excellent resource for marriage and family studies in the church and in academia. Few texts come close to this one in blending the biblical ideal with the contemporary scene.”—Joe E. Trull, Theological Educator

“Every sociologist who teaches courses on marriage and the family or who engages in personal or family counseling ought to read this stimulating book. Many will conclude that it is the best textbook for college, seminary, and marriage preparation courses.”—Christian Sociological Society Newsletter

“As a consequence of their theological foundation, presentation of major sociological perspectives of the family, and integrating visualizations, The Family is a most helpful resource for understanding the modern family.”—Diana S. Richmond Garland, Review and Expositor