Oden seeks to follow the Classical order examining the data. His underlining outline follows the Apostle's Creed. He often presents his material beginning with a summery statement followed by proofs (sometimes ad nauseum), but in other places he will have beautiful reflections that demand to be read. Oden himself has sought to say nothing new in this systematic theology, but rather present what has been universally accepted and believed everywhere at all times. He often cites the Classical exegetes, but where no early examples are found he will quote more contemporary authors.