In the Foreword to Relationship Tanning, Jack D. Terry, dean of the School of Religious Education, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, writes:

We are all aware that the field of Christian education takes place in a particular kind of context which is not only educative but also historical and theological. At the center of the religious education experience is a message, a mission, and a command from Christ to communicate the gospel. This communication takes place best when it is proffered within the Christian fellowship of koinonia and love. The communication is educative, to be sure, but it is practiced within a strong theological context of loving and fellowshiping believers.

Written with both teacher and student in mind, Relationship Learning integrates the historical, theological, and philosophical bases of Christian education into an approach which focuses on rela- tionship with God, others, and self. Activities are provided throughout the book to encourage and stimulate learning.