Quite a few people have come to me lately wanting the name of a good systematic theology text. They requested a book that was readable, affordable, and doctrinally sound. I do have a few suggestions.

J.I. Packer. God's Words. Studies in Key Bible Themes. Baker Book House, 1981.
God's Words is a study of 17 key bible themes. This books is written for the layperson. Packer is one of the pre-eminent theologians of our day. His works are always well-written and grounded in reformed theology. My favorite chapter is on the mortification of sin. I have never read anyone else write so well on this subject.

Charles C. Ryrie. Basic Theology. Moody Press, 1999.
Basic Theology is a good introduction to systematic theology that is both concise and affordable. Section I, Prolegomena is almost worth the price of the book. He is at times too dispensational for me, and I strongly disagree with his contention that repentance is not necessary for salvation. However, the book is a good overview of systematic theology.

Wayne Grudem. Systematic Theology. Zondervan Publishing house, 1994.
This is my favorite. I use this book more in sermon preparation than any other systematic. Gurdem is conservative, reformed, and baptistic (all of which are close to my heart). His book is easy to read but still fairly comprehensive. The end of each chapter includes a bibliography, a list of other helpful works, scripture to memorize, and a hymn or praise song that emphasizes the doctrines covered in that chapter. This is a must have book.

Millard Erickson. Christian Theology. Baker Book House.
Christian theology is one of the best baptistic, and calvinistic theologies available today. Erickson presents several different sides to many theological issues, and then provides possible solutions. I also enjoy his sections on the implications of various doctrines. He is the most technical of all the suggested books, but well worth the time.