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The Marrow of Modern Divinity by Edward Fisher: The Core of the Gospel

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On December 8, 2024

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Cover of The Marrow of Modern Divinity by Edward FisherThe Marrow of Modern Divinity

by Edward Fisher, Thomas Boston

DETAILS:
Publisher: Christian Heritage
Publication Date: November 1, 2009
Format: Hardcover
Length: 343 pg.
Read Date: November 10-December 1, 2024
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The gospel method of sanctification, as well as of justification, lies so far out of the ken of natural reason, that if all the rationalists in the world, philosophers and divines, had consulted together to lay down a plan for repairing the lost image of God in man, they had never hit upon that which the divine wisdom has pitched upon, viz: that sinners should be sanctified in Christ Jesus, (1 Cor 1:2), by faith in him, (Acts 26:18); nay, being laid before them, they would have rejected it with disdain, as foolishness, (1 Cor 1:23).

What I’m Not Going to Talk About…

The controversy or (most) of the history surrounding this book and its contents. This isn’t that kind of blog, and it’d take more research and footnotes than I really want to take time for.

Okay, that’s only kind of true. I’d love to spend time doing that, but I don’t have time for it. And, again, that’s not what I do here. Maybe in 15 or so years, I’ll change my focus when I have more time and I’ll start doing that sort of thing.

What’s The Marrow of Modern Divinity About?

The back of the book says:

An intriguing book, quite unlike any other The Marrow of Modern Divinity defies pigeon-holing. It was written in the 1600s by an author of whom we know little, yet it proved to be a critically important and controversial theological text.

Penned as dialogue between a minister (Evangelista), a young Christian (Neophytus), a legalist (Nomista) who believes Christianity is a set of rules to be obeyed and Antinomista who thinks it’s okay to sin because God will forgive him anyway, it makes for a wonderfully insightful book that remains tremendously relevant for our world today.

This newly laid out and eagerly awaited edition includes explanatory notes by the famous puritan Thomas Boston, an introduction by Philip Ryken and an historical introduction by William Vandoodewaard.

(there are some problems with this, actually, but it’ll do to get started)

In 1645, this book was originally published by “E.F.” That’s probably Edward Fisher—a layman theologian of a few works. But this didn’t make much of an impact at the time. In 1700, Thomas Boston read it and it made a considerable impact on him, so much so that he and a colleague made arrangements to republish it—with the explanatory notes (some of which disagree with Fisher). Some of these notes are very brief, some are anything but.

Part One

Say, then, I beseech you, with a firm faith, The righteousness of Jesus Christ belongs to all that believe, but I believe, and therefore it belongs to me. Yea, say with Paul, ‘I live by the faith of the Son of God who loved me, and gave himself for me’ (Gal. 2:20). “He saw in me (says Luther on the text) nothing but wickedness, going astray, and fleeing from him. Yet this good Lord had mercy on me, and of his mere mercy he loved me, yea, so loved me, that he gave himself for me. Who is this me? Even I, wretched and damnable sinner, was so dearly beloved of the Son of God that he gave himself for me.’

Oh! print this word ‘me’ in your heart, and apply it to your o,” self, not doubting but that you are one of those to whom this ‘me’ belongs.

As the above section said, this is a dialogue. Neophytus and his friend Nomista have been having some discussions with Antinomista and they haven’t gone anywhere, so they agree to go talk to their minister, Evangelista, to help them sort it out. Basically, they’ve been wrangling about the place and use of the Law in the life of the Christian. Evangelista refuses to take either side, showing how both misunderstand things and helps Neophytus to come out of the influence of Nomista and to embrace the Scriptural understanding.

There are four chapters in this Part—”Of the Law of Works, or Covenant of Works,” “Of the Law of Faith, or Covenant of Grace,” and “Of the Law of Christ” take up the bulk of it. He covers the typical Covenant theology here, and applies it to the use of the Law throughout Redemptive History—and then brings it all home in the last chapter, “Of the Heart’s Happiness, or Soul’s Rest.”

Throughout, Evangelista, expounds things in a way fully consistent with the Westminster Standards (and will appeal to them) and will invoke figures like Luther (most frequently), William Perkins, John Calvin, and others, but primarily he’ll invoke Paul. He takes on several errors associated with antinomianism, neonomianism, and the rest—but he’s more interested in positive teaching than correcting error.

If you ask me, it’s easy to see why Boston would find this part of the book attractive and want to get it into the hands of as many people as possible. I do.

Part Two

This part is not mentioned on the back of the book—it’s a much shorter portion of the work, which is part of it. This time Neophytus brings another friend, Nomologista (“a Prattler of the Law”), to Evangelista to help settle a disagreement they’re having. Nomologista tells him that “he is persuaded that he goes very near the perfect fulfilling of the law of God; but I cannot be persuaded to it.” Nomologista affirms that’s true and gives a very surface-level explanation of the Ten Commandments (in a sentence or two). He says he’s pretty much followed those all his life.

Evangelista gives an explanation of the Ten Commandments, along with some other comments on the Law of God, obedience, and whatnot. At some point, NOmologista leaves the conversation and Neophytus and Evangelista wrap things up—with Evangelista giving some reassurance and further guidance to Neophystus.

On the whole, there’s nothing revolutionary or unexpected about the exposition of the Commandments. I did think a couple of the applications Evangelista used were striking, but it’s basically what you read in Watson, Calvin, Turreting or any of the Reformed Catechisms. The things that surprised me the most were the brevity of the comments on the 4th and 7th commandments were.

I did wonder about a couple of the comments Evangelista made in the last page or two. It’s probably a problem with my comprehension, but my notes were basically, “Someone should tell Evangelista to read Part One of this book.” I’m pretty sure I misunderstood something, actually.

On the other hand, a few pages earlier, when Evangelista goes through the commandments in a similar way that Nomologista did, except pointing out how Evangelista frequently breaks them all…it was so reassuring, so comforting to see that even this fictional paragon of theological precision and righteousness fails.

There’s almost nothing (maybe nothing at all) by Boston here, it’s just Fisher.

How to Read This Edition

I’m a little curious about how other editions of this work lay it out—but Christian Heritage lays out the book in a pretty handy way. About 2/3 of each page are Fisher’s text, with some of Boston’s briefer notes in brackets in the text. Some of his one or two-sentence notes are in the 1/3 that’s primarily white space, or subject headings added by the editor.

And then every few pages, you get Boston’s longer notes in double columns—they’re all clearly labeled so you know what he’s talking about.

I think that’s clear enough, but if it’s not, don’t worry about it—there’s a very handy two-page spread showing you all this at the front of the book.

Boston, in his prologue, suggests reading Fisher’s text before the notes, so you can fully get the point of the notes. This makes sense, but you can see why he took the time to say it, because you occasionally will get on a roll with his notes and forget that he’s trying to amplify, clarify, or respond to something else.

So, what did I think about The Marrow of Modern Divinity?

I beseech you to be persuaded that here you are to work nothing, here you are to do nothing, here you are to render nothing unto God, but only to receive the treasure, which is Jesus Christ, and apprehend him in your heart by faith, although you be never so great a sinner; and so shall you obtain forgiveness of sins, righteousness, and eternal happiness; not as an agent but as a patient, not by doing, but by receiving. Nothing here comes betwixt but faith only, apprehending Christ in the promise. This, then, is perfect righteousness, to hear nothing, to know nothing, to do nothing of the law of works; but only to know and believe that Jesus Christ is now gone to the Father, and sitreth at his right hand, not as a judge, but is made unto you of God, wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption? Wherefore, as Paul and Silas said to the jailer, so say [ unto you, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved’; that is, be verily persuaded in your heart that Jesus Christ is yours, and that you shall have life and salvation by him; that whatsoever Christ did for the redemption of mankind, he did it for you.

I’ve frequently said (mostly to myself) that I didn’t know why I haven’t read this book at some point in the last 28 years or so—especially not in the 15 years since this edition came out. However many times I’ve said that prior to starting this book, I probably matched saying it while reading it. This is going to become one of those works I return to.

It’s so clear. It’s so helpful. It’s so full of Gospel truth and assurance. It’s so spot-on in describing the ditches of legalism and antinomianism that are so easy to fall into. And yet, it never gets nasty or harsh in the criticism of the errors, it just points at them and says, “Don’t go there, and here’s why.” So few books along these lines manage that (I’m not saying they’re wrong to show teeth, but Fisher/Boston show you don’t need to).

I cannot recommend this enough.

5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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Word and Spirit: Selected Writings in Biblical and Systematic Theology by Richard B. Gaffin, Jr.: Righteous Gems

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On December 1, 2024

In Chronicles of Prydain, Constance Verity, Duncan MacMaster, Ian Rankin, John Rebus, Kitty Norville, Luca Veste, Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

I can’t put this one off any longer—if I could, I promise you I would (I’ve delayed it a few weeks already). I’m out of my league here, but I’ve got nothing else to write about. And I really need to write something about this.

Cover of Word and Spirit by Richard B. Gaffin, Jr.Word and Spirit:
Selected Writings in Biblical and Systematic Theology

by Richard B. Gaffin, Jr.; edited by David B. Garner & Guy Prentiss Waters

DETAILS:
Publisher: Westminster Seminary Press 
Publication Date: December 1, 2023
Format: Hardcover
Length: 723 pg.
Read Date: January 7, 2024-September 22, 2024

The word atonement does not occur in Paul’s writings.’ But no concern is more central for him than the meaning of the death of Christ, the church’s perennial concern in its doctrine of the atonement. What does Christ’s death achieve? How is it effective for the salvation of sinners? This chapter considers Paul’s answers to such questions with an eye to the issue of continuity between Paul’s teaching and later church doctrine. How faithful to the apostle is subsequent Christian understanding of the atonement?

Contemporary Pauline scholarship is marked by a fairly widespread consensus that in its dominant and most influential expressions, traditional atonement theology departs from Paul in at least two substantial ways. First, it fails to recognize, or at least do justice to, the Christus Victor theme in Paul, that Christ’s death destroys actual slavery to sin and its consequences in the sinner. Second, its notion of the cross as penal substitution, particularly as it has been developed beginning with the Reformation, is foreign to Paul.? In my view, the first of these critiques contains some measure of truth; however, the second is wrong. As a fair generalization, historic Christianity, including Protestant orthodoxy, is weak in not recognizing adequately Paul’s teaching that the cross destroys sin in the sinner as a corrupting and enslaving power, but modern historical-critical scholarship is defective for not dealing adequately with his teaching that the cross removes the guilt and just punishment of sin.

What’s Word and Spirit About?

According to the Publisher,

Few Reformed theologians have exerted the influence in both the church and the academy that Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. has, shaping the theology and spiritual formation of generations of pastors and teachers. Until now, his most significant published works have been inaccessible to most theological readers, published in academic journals, denominational newsletters, and out of print festschrifts and essay collections. A decade in the making, Word & Spirit gathers Gaffin’s finest works of biblical and systematic theology and arranges them in a singular, organic whole that presents Gaffin’s thought and work as comprehensively and clearly as it ever has been. More than 40 essays, articles, and tracts have been compiled, including “The Usefulness of the Cross”, No Adam, No Gospel, “A Cessationist View,” and “The Work of Christ Applied”. This collection is a must-have for any student of theology.

There’s really not much else to say. It’s broken down into five sections, and I’d be tempted to say that each section was the most valuable/useful (well, at least 2-5, but maybe if I spent some time re-reading part 1, I’d reconsider that). Let’s take a quick look at each:

Hermeneutics, Biblical Theology, and Systematic Theology

This is ten articles spread out over 170+ pages, covering the basics of Biblical Theology, how it can and should interact with Systematic Theology (and vice versa).

There’s some repetition of ideas (this will be a common thread throughout each section), which makes sense as these were written as individual pieces, not as part of a book, and Gaffin’s position and ideas about these things have remained static/build on each other.

It’s vital to understand him and his work—and just good to have a handle on these ideas regardless.

Theology of Hebrews and Paul

Most of these seven articles encapsulate (and expand on) the ideas from In the Fullness of Time: An Introduction to the Biblical Theology of Acts and Paul, a book I raved about a couple of years ago. But there are teachings and texts he didn’t address there, that he does here.

This section was so rich, so helpful—the chapters “‘The Obedience of Faith’: Some Reflections on the Rationale for Romans,” “Atonement in the Pauline Corpus: ‘The Scandal of the Cross,'” “and “The Priesthood of Christ: A Servant in the Sanctuary”—were good enough that I almost re-read them immediately (and I probably should’ve).

The first article in this section, The Usefulness of the Cross is available as a PDF Free Chapter Download from the publisher, take advantage of this.

Scripture, Epistemology, and Anthropology

The first three of these six chapters might have been the most mind-stretching for me (they won’t be for everyone), and were very rewarding.

The final three were the easiest for me—and the most repetitive in the book. They focus on Biblical anthropology (as in teaching on the nature of man), focusing on the historicity and nature of Adam. I’ve read at least “No Adam, No Gospel” before—it was published as a booklet a few years ago, and I think I read the previous chapter, the Translator’s Foreword to Adam in the New Testament as well. And I didn’t mind one bit re-reading it/them. Still helpful.

Pneumatology

These seven chapters could be (should be, if you ask me) be reworked into one book. Gaffin shines in these studies—and going back to his By Faith, Not By Sight and Resurrection and Redemption, these teachings are where he’s historically helped me the most. And that streak continues here.

Reformed theologians often (and wrongly) get the reputation for not talking about the Spirit as much as other traditions, and—even worse—are considered to ignore Him. Gaffin makes it clear that everything about Reformed Theology is based on the work of the Spirit in believers’ lives and helps us understand just what that means—both theologically and practically.

The Law of God, Soteriology, and Eschatology

This section pretty much covers “everything that couldn’t fit above.” Again, I’ve read a few of these before in other publications/stand-alone works. But I don’t care.

The chapters on eschatology are gold.

The chapters on Justification and Calvin are even better—the way he talks about Calvin’s view of the relationship of Sanctification and Justification (and the way he presents the two in The Instittues even in the organization of them) is so important for us all to heed. Particularly as he roots them both in Union in Christ—as is every benefit that the believer enjoys in this life and in the resurrection.

So, what did I think about Word and Spirit?

The justification of God’s elect is unshakably secure because, in a sentence, Jesus Christ is “the same yesterday, today and forever” (Heb. 13:8). Despite the way it is often read, this is not, at least in the first place, a proof text for Christ’s divine immutability, that as God he is unchanging, though that attribute is surely in the background (see, for instance, 1:10—12).” Rather, it is most likely an affirmation of his unwavering fidelity, his abiding reliability as high priest—in his once-for-all sacrifice in the past on earth and in his ongoing present and future (cf. 7:25) intercession in heaven. That is as good a note as any to bring these reflections to a close. “Jesus Christ—the same yesterday, today and forever.” This, first and finally, is what Christians need to know about their justification when they consider Christ as their priest, not only in his state of humiliation but also in his state of exaltation.

Outside of the Foreword, Introduction, and Brief Biography (Appendix A), none of this is particularly easy reading. Nor quick. But all of it is accessible—for the depth he gets into at points, this is much more approachable than On Classical Trinitarianism (to mention a recent example).

This is probably the most personally beneficial read I’ve had in the last couple of years—sitting down with Gaffin for 30-50 minutes every week has been a great discipline and a great boon.

I should probably have more to say than that, but I can’t think of what else to say that’s not just a restatement of this: this is a fantastic book—with insights, teachings, and reminders of the things that are vital for every believer.

Highly recommended.

5 Stars
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On the Christian Life: A New Translation by John Calvin, Raymond A. Blacketer (Translator): A Shiny New Translation of Gold Standard

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On November 3, 2024

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Cover of On the Christian Life by John CalvinOn the Christian Life:
A New Translation

by John Calvin, Raymond A. Blacketer (Translator), Anthony N. S. Lane (Editor)

DETAILS:
Publisher: Crossway
Publication Date: August 20, 2024
Format: Hardcover
Length: 65 pg.
Read Date: October 20, 2024
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What’s On the Christian Life About?

These are excerpts from John Calvin’s The Institutes of the Christian Religion focused on the life of the Christian–they’ve been excerpted as such from the time of Calvin, and translated into English (and other languages) from before the final edition of The Institutes were published–then they were updated to match the following editions.

These are from chapters 6-10 of Book Three of The Institutes, setting out general principles to guide our lives–rather than stringent rules and extra-biblical commandments. Calvin starts by talking about ordering our lives correctly, looking for small progress throughout our lives, not perfection. There are some chapters on self-denial, focusing on Matthew 16. Then there’s a chapter focusing on the life to come–where our eyes and hearts should be focused, and the way to go about that. The last chapter is about the use and enjoyment of “the present life and earthly possessions.”

A New Translation?

I now have three copies of this–I had another edition, but I lost track of it somewhere along the line, I’m not sure which translator worked on it (which is a shame, it was a nice looking one). So I can’t compare and contrast as much as I want.

But I do have the translations by Henry J. Van Andel and Aaron Clay Denlinger. Denlinger’s translation reads pretty close to Blacketer’s, but there are differences. Van Andel’s comes across as stuffy and wooden…maybe staid?…in comparison to both (it’s also more than 50 years old, and I’m sure that plays a role, but even then…it’s so different than the other two).

Like I said, Blacketer and Denlinger read pretty similarly–but there’s something about the two that makes you very aware that while they’re on the same page, they’re different enough to justify their independent existences.

I don’t know enough French or Latin (read: practically none) to actually be able to tell you which is a better translation–for all I know Van Andel’s formality hits it better than these new kids. But I know in English, Blacketer comes across as precise, clear, and heartfelt. That’s good enough for me. Also, the footnotes are great (something the other editions could really use some help with)–both in terms of cross-references, and translation notes.

I thought of posting some quotations from the three versions for comparison (and maybe I should’ve), but without the Latin/French, it felt like that approach would be missing something.

Do we need this translation of the book? I don’t know, honestly. But as this is the first taste of Blacketer’s work with Calvin that the general public is getting while Crossway gets ready to publish his translation of The Institutes, it serves as a preview of that work. I, for one, am ready to buy it.

So, what did I think about On the Christian Life ?

I can’t tell you how many times that I’ve read this material–either in versions of this book, or in The Institutes. But every time, it strikes me as fresh, applicable, and useful. It generally feels like it could’ve been published within the last five years (whether I read it in 1996 or 2024).

Calvin never makes this out to be something we can generate within ourselves. This isn’t something we do to earn, or prove, our salvation or God’s affections/pleasure. This is, rather, what’s expected of those who have faith–what faith should look like–but something stumbling, something imperfect, something we strive to do better at. There’s both grace and motivation there–and it’s foolish to expect anything else (or want anything else).

I really do think I could go on and on here, but instead, I think I should point you at the work itself. It’s a mere 73 pages in this edition, if you include the introduction and indexes. But this isn’t the kind of thing you can gulp down in an hour–it’s not a difficult read in terms of complications or weighty arguments. But there’s a depth that belies the brevity.

It’s helpful. It’s encouraging. It’s challenging. I commend it–in any translation, but particularly this new one–to your attention.

5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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REPOSTING JUST CUZ: In the Fullness of Time: An Introduction to the Biblical Theology of Acts and Paul by Richard B. Gaffin Jr.: One of the Best Things I’ve Read in Years

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On October 20, 2024

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

I can’t put this one off any longer—if I could, I promise you I would. I’m out of my league here, but I’ve got nothing else to write about. And I really need to write something about this.

In the Fullness of TimeIn the Fullness of Time: An Introduction to the Biblical Theology of Acts and Paul

by Richard B. Gaffin Jr.

DETAILS:
Publisher: Crossway
Publication Date: May 3, 2022
Format: Hardcover
Length: 419 pg.
Read Date: September 4-December 25, 2022
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What’s In the Fullness of Time About?

First, let’s look at what was on the Publisher’s Website:

An Exegetical Study of the Book of Acts and Pauline Theology

Christians often skip a crucial starting point when studying the apostle Paul: the foundations of his deeply nuanced theology. Some studies on the book of Acts attempt to touch on every major theme in Paul’s letters, making them difficult to understand or prone to leaving out important nuances. Christians need a biblical, theological, and exegetically grounded framework to thoroughly understand Paul’s theology.

In this book, Richard B. Gaffin Jr. gives readers an accessible introduction to Acts and Paul. Building on a lifetime of study, Gaffin teaches on topics including the redemptive-historical significance of Pentecost; eschatology; and the fulfillment of redemptive history in the death and resurrection of Christ. In the Fullness of Time is an exegetical “textbook” for pastors, students, and lay leaders seeking to learn more about Acts and Paul from a Reformed and evangelical perspective.

  • Explores the Foundations of Paul’s Theology: Offers a nuanced look at the core of Paul’s thinking
  • Wide-Ranging Audience: A valuable study for pastors, theology students, and lay leaders
  • Thorough Yet Accessible: An in-depth look at Pauline theology that’s accessible to readers

After reading the book, however, I’d offer a tweak or two to that description. For example, I’d add to that “for pastors, students, and lay leaders” lay people in general (or just swap out “leaders” for “people”).

Also, I’m not sure I’d include eschatology alongside those other topics. It seemed to me (on first read, anyway) that this was a book about Eschatology as presented by/understood through the New Testament—with a focus on understanding Pentecost and the fulfillment of redemption (and a couple of other topics) in light of that eschatology. That may seem like splitting hairs, and really, I’m guessing the good people at Crossway understand the book a bit better than I do. Still, I didn’t get the impression that the book thought of those ideas as equal (unlike the description).

The chapters in this book came from lecture notes for the class that Gaffin taught for years on Paul and Acts—a class I’ve heard several people mention over the years, and really wish I could’ve taken. Getting that material in written form is a blessing I didn’t expect and was more than happy to receive.

The Centrality of Eschatology

In Chapter 2, Gaffin writes:

for much Christian theology and preaching seeking to be faithful to the Bible as God’s inscripturated word, the rediscovery of eschatology can be seen as having a corrective significance that has resulted in laying hold of biblical teaching in a way that has not been fully appreciated in the past.

For instance, in a standard volume on systematic theology, “Eschatology” is the last chapter. More significantly, coming at the end of the volume, eschatology tends to be defined exclusively in terms of the “last things” having to do with what is still future for the church—Christ’s return and matters concomitant with his return, perhaps including as well some treatment of what occurs at death and the so-called intermediate state. Even more significantly, very often little, if any, attention is given to the relationship with what has preceded, to the integral connection between the future hope of the church and its present life and the practical relevance of the former for the latter.

What has become more and more clear is that in an overall presentation of biblical teaching, eschatology is not properly compartmentalized at the end. In particular, the New Testament teaches, as our own work will show, what is often termed a “realized eschatology.” Biblical eschatology is to be defined in terms of the first as well as the second coming of Christ. New Testament eschatology has a dual focus. In that respect it is elliptical, defined by two foci, present and future, the proverbial already-not-yet.

It’s this dual focus that characterizes so much of this book, and grounds the arguments Gaffin puts forth.

The Exegetical Portions

Throughout the book, Gaffin offers a lengthier exegesis of a particular passage as either a foundation for a chapter’s position or to show how something from earlier in a chapter is worked out through Paul or Luke’s work. These are the best parts of this book.

Period. It’s not even close.

For example, he uses a little more than two pages to exegete Philippians 2:12-13 while considering the indicative and imperative in Paul. I don’t remember a better example of writing leading to doxology recently.

I get—between this being based on the course, where he only had so much time and the design of the book—that he couldn’t have given us similar treatment for several more passages that he touched upon. But man, I wish he had. But that brushes up on the next section, so I guess it’s time to transition.

Could Use A Little More

In addition to wanting more exegetical portions, there’s something else I could use more of.

I think that despite the length of the book, it should’ve been longer—too much needs to be fleshed out a little more. Not much, but almost every point could be expressed more fully. More than once, Gaffin does a better job of clarifying what he’s not addressing or not saying than he does in making it clear what he is trying to say.

So, what did I think about In the Fullness of Time?

I read a chapter (or just a half of one) a week for a few months to carefully work through the book—and I’m sure I need to do the same (or slower) once or twice more to really get a handle on Gaffin’s arguments. But what I got this time around was about as good as anyone could ask for.

Reading this felt like I was sitting in a lecture hall featuring my favorite professor—in a strange way. I felt like I was a beginning student—almost like looking at some of these passages for the first time. Yet, while reading I simultaneously felt like I was understanding texts with a depth I’m not accustomed to. Reading Gaffin you’re frequently running into thinking more subtle and profound than a lot of what you’ve encountered previously—and that’s certainly the case here. Still, I thought this work was a bit easier to work through than some of his shorter works.

For me, this is the kind of work that you want to read alongside one or more others, so you can pause and talk things through from time to time—just to make sure everyone is understanding everything. Or at least you’re stupified with company.

Anyway, I don’t think I have anything else to say at this point—maybe on the eventual reread, I’ll be able to say something more substantive than this. Basically, you want to read this, wrestle with it, study it, and do it again.

5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.

On Classical Trinitarianism: Retriving the Nicene Doctrine of the Triune God edited by Matthew Barrett. An Outstanding Defense/Explanation/Retrieval of the Vital Teaching

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On October 13, 2024

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Cover of On Classical Trinitarianism by Matthew BarrettOn Classical Trinitarianism:
Retrieving the Nicene Doctrine of the Triune God

edited by Matthew Barrett

DETAILS:
Publisher: IVP Academic
Publication Date: October 1, 2024
Format: eARC
Length: 832 pgs.
Read Date: September 8-October 12, 2024
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What Does The Cover Say About This?

There’s no way that I can do this justice easily, so I’ll just borrow the Publisher’s Website’s copy:
Modern theology claimed that it ignited a renaissance in trinitarian theology. Really, it has been a renaissance in social trinitarianism. Classical commitments like divine simplicity have been jettisoned, the three persons have been redefined as three centers of consciousness and will, and modern agendas in politics, gender, and ecclesiology determine the terms of the discussion. Contemporary trinitarian theology has followed the spirit of this trajectory, rejecting doctrines like eternal generation which were once a hallmark of Nicene orthodoxy and reintroducing subordinationism into the Trinity.

Motivated by the longstanding need to retrieve the classical doctrine of the Trinity, theologian Matthew Barrett brings together Protestant, Roman Catholic, and Eastern Orthodox scholars to intervene in the conversation. With over forty contributions, this ecumenical volume resurrects the enduring legacy of Nicene orthodoxy, providing a theological introduction that listens with humility to the Great Tradition.

In On Classical Trinitarianism, you find contributions from a wide range of scholars, including:

  • Katherin Rogers
  • Andrew Louth
  • Gilles Emery
  • Steven Duby
  • Gavin Ortlund
  • Adonis Vidu
  • Carl Trueman
  • Matthew Levering
  • Fred Sanders
  • Scott Swain
  • Karen Kilby
  • Amy Peeler
  • Thomas Joseph White

The distinct yet united voices of On Classical Trinitarianism summon the next generation to move past modern revisionism for the sake of renewing classical trinitarian theology today. Together, they demonstrate that Nicene orthodoxy can endure in the modern world and unite the church catholic.

Do NOT Follow My Example Here

I read this (until the last week or so) at a rate of 1-2 chapters a day (with the occasional day of 3 or 4 chapters) in a vain attempt to finish the book in under a month, so I could post about it before release day.

This should be read much slower—it wouldn’t hurt to read each chapter at the same pace I did, but only one at a time. Then you should go back and read it again, slower this time—maybe taking notes—and maybe one more time after that before moving on. That’s how I’m going to do it next time.

One thing I think I did do right was that I read this from front to back. Generally, this book builds from chapter to chapter. The first part, in particular, “Retrieving Nicene Trinitarianism” should be read before the rest—those 11 chapters dive deep into the historical material—with an emphasis on the first few centuries of the Church.

Highlights and Lowlights

Frequently when I talk about a book like this I’ll talk about the highlights, the chapters I liked more, or I thought were more convincing than others. And I’ll mention the ones that weren’t so successful in my eyes.

I don’t think I can do that with this one—they were all great. Some were more interesting than others, but…that’s really an “eye of the beholder” kind of thing and will probably vary each time I read the book. Some touched on things I’ve been reading lately, some were authors I wanted to read/read more of. That kind of thing.

Instead, I’ll talk about the difficulty in reading. Chapter 2, The Nicene Creed: Foundation of Orthodoxy could be given to any High School class. Carl Trueman’s “Reforming the Trinity? The Collapse of Classical Metaphysics and the Protestant Identity Crisis,” was only a little tougher. And the final chapter, Michael Horton’s “Biblicism and Heterodoxy: Nicene Orthodoxy, Ecclesiastical Accountability, and Institutional Fidelity,” was also pretty accessible.

Chapter 6 “Maximos and John Damascene: Mid-Byzantine Reception of Nicea” was so filled with Greek that I couldn’t get much out of it. But “The Unbegotten Father”, Chapter 22, was also Greek-rich, and I struggled, but I did get a lot out of it (but would translations in the footnotes have been so bad?). I thought Chapter 17, “Three Persons, One Will” was pretty hard reading, too—but so, so helpful. I don’t know if anything topped Chapter 6, but Chapter 25 “No Impassibility, No Eternal Generation: Retrieving a Pro-Nicene Distinctive” maybe came close. But it’s also one of my favorite chapters.

The rest of the chapters are somewhere in between those extremes, closer to the latter than the former set. None are unapproachable for the non-professional. But you do need to be prepared for some struggles.

So, what did I think about On Classical Trinitarianism?

I loved this book. I’ve been talking with friends about it for weeks (actually, some of us started talking about it months ago). It’s a real blessing for The Church and individual believers.

I learned so, so much—and know when I read it more slowly, I’ll learn so much more. I have notes throughout about looking into this idea or that idea some more. There are also a handful of books from the footnotes that I need to go buy (and that handful will likely multiply on my next read). I got some clarification on positions I already held or leaned toward—and I’m more convinced of them all now, and can explain them better. I was confronted by ideas I hadn’t reckoned with before—or ways of looking at tried and true subjects that I hadn’t considered before, and now can’t help but see everywhere.

I think the critiques of Social Trinitarianism, Eternal Functional Subordinationism (and related positions), attacks on Eternal Generation or the Impassibility of God and so on were so valuable—and the wide range of chapters and topics that led to them shows how large an impact these positions can have—and the way they are out of step with pro-Nicene Theology.

This book takes work—and it should—but it’s worth every ounce of effort you expend. You will be rewarded for your efforts—I have been already, and I took the easy way through it. I’ll be returning to these pages again and again—I heartily recommend this and encourage you to give it a read.

9.5 out of 5 stars. (It loses a half star for all the untranslated Greek)

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from IVP Academic—thanks to both for this.

5 Stars4 1/2 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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On the Unity of Christ by Cyril of Alexandria, John Anthony McGuckin (Translator): A Powerful Dialogue on the Person of Christ

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On October 6, 2024

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Cover of On the Unity of Christ by Cyril of AlexandriaOn the Unity of Christ

by Cyril of Alexandria, John Anthony McGuckin (Translator)

DETAILS:
Series: Popular Patristics Series, #13
Publisher: St Vladimir's Seminary Press
Publication Date: March 23, 2005
Format: Paperback
Length: 133 pg.
Read Date: August 25, 2024
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What’s On the Unity of Christ About?

In a dialogue between characters creatively named A and B, Cyril advances–Scripturally, theologically, and philosophically–the classic case against Nestorius and his teachings, advancing what’s now received as the orthodox position on Christ’s nature as the god-man.

Uh, What?

I haven’t read a lot of the books in this series, but of the handful that I have read, this is one that had me scratching my head the most. There were a few times that I just had no idea why Cyril was addressing topics or making a certain argument. Those either were moved on from quickly, or I finally got the point–I don’t think this was a problem on his part–it’s just me not knowing the ins and outs of my Fifth Century theology, particularly the Christological conflicts.

There were even a couple of times where I was following Cyril, but I really didn’t think the argument was that sound or helpful–and both times, my notes tell me that within two pages, I’d come on board (well, largely).

It’s a good reminder that just because someone is a reliable teacher/writer–even an Early Church Father–they’re flawed people (flawed people who’ve had people reading them for centuries, sure). And while the smart thing to do is shut up and learn from them regardless, they still can stumble from time to time. You’ve still got to keep your brain engaged and to test the Spirits.

Tone

Hoo-ee, Cyril did not hold back what he thought of his opponents or those who differed from him:

What nonsense that is. Surely it is the clearest proof of delirious brain.

My goodness. I cannot imagine how stupid and intellectually superficial they must be who hold to such a conceptos. The whole thing is faithlessness and nothing else. It is the novelty of wicked inventions, the overthrowing of the divine and sacred kerygma which has proclaimed One Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, truly the Word of God the Father…

who is this serpant who has recently appeared? And what are these idiotic things he ser against the teachings of the truth?

What has happened to their brains and their intelligence—people who hold such opinions?

Do they have anything from the sacred scriptures to demonstrate for us the truth of their doctrine on such matters? Or are they innovating in the faith? “Speaking things from their own hearts and not from the mouth of the Lord,” as it is written (Jer 23:6). Perhaps they find themselves unable to say: “As for me, let me never boast save in the cross of Christ, through whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world” (Gal 6:14).

It’s a different time. It’s a different atmosphere. The stakes (typically) in theological controversy aren’t quite as high for us as they were then. So we don’t usually talk like that. I’m not going to say whether Cyril was right or wrong in that–it’s just too hard to apply different cultural standards.

But let’s put it this way: you know where you stood with him. No doubt. It reminded me of reading Luther, to be honest.

So, what did I think about On the Unity of Christ?

So, I’m obviously not going to get into any kind of critique of Cyril’s thinking or writing–I know my place in history and his (I might get into something closer to that in a few weeks when I talk about a book about Cyril). So, this is focusing on this read.

This is a really easy read given how important it (and Cyril) is in history. The translator (like with the rest of this series) has got to be at least partially responsible for that.

Except for the moments I mentioned above, I had no trouble understanding his points–either what he claimed his opponents taught or his response to it. The text flows easily, the dialogue format helps you track what he’s saying (I don’t always appreciate that style, but I got into it with this).

I enjoyed this, I profited from it, and (if nothing else) it serves as a good motivation to get more from this series.

5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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PUB DAY REPOST: Candle & Crow by Kevin Hearne: Growing, Changing, and Moving On

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On October 1, 2024

In Fiction, Iron Druid Chronicles, Kevin Hearne, Urban Fantasy

Cover of Candle & Crow by Kevin HearneCandle & Crow

by Kevin Hearne

DETAILS:
Series: Ink & Sigil, #3
Publisher: Del Rey Books
Publication Date: October 1, 2024
Format: eARC
Length: 352
Read Date: September 13-18, 2024
Buy from Bookshop.org Support Indie Bookstores

What’s Candle & Crow About?

What isn’t this about? Al has to address a potential treaty violation of a group against some British citizens, which leads to some treaty re-negotiations; Gladys wraps up business she started in the last book, prepares to leave her job, and sees some shite; the Morrigan tries to settle among humans in her new body; Al, Buck, and Nadia are targeted by the police; Al has to help out his American counterpart with a tricky problem; Al gets a line on who cursed him; and…a few other things that I can’t figure out how to describe in a phrase or two.

Seriously, this book is busy. But somehow, it doesn’t feel crammed or over-stuffed; everything gets as much time as it needs to be addressed; everything makes sense; you don’t lose track of any plotlines; characters get to grow and develop (and be introduced!). And the last couple of chapters are so satisfying that I don’t care that I can’t finish this sentence properly.

A Trio of Druids

Fittingly for what Hearne has stated will be the last book in the universe of the Iron Druid Chronicles (I’m waiting for him to change his mind. Maybe a foolish hope, but it’s one nonetheless), we get to see all three of the Druids from that series for a little while—and none of them togther.

Working with his students has been good for Owen, Atticus—I mean, Connor—is in a good place (in several senses of that word), and Granuaile is…well, still Granuaile. I think I’ve mentioned she was getting on my nerves toward the end of IDC, and she’s still there. But she’s still essentially the same character—so if you weren’t annoyed by her, you’ll enjoy her appearance (I did, even with my attitude).

We got just enough time with them all to get a sense of where they are, what the future holds for them, and to see that they’re doing well—the events of Scourged are far enough past that they’ve settled into the next stage of their lives. It’s a good way to say goodbye to this world.

Deities

Since at least book 3 of the IDC we’ve had a good understanding of how gods, goddesses, and lesser deities function, live, and have power both now and throughout the ages. Hearne’s had Atticus and Al explain it a time or two since then, so faitful readers will get it.

But in these pages, we are given two examples (or three, depending on how you want to count something) of how this functions toward entities that aren’t part of the major pantheons (or minor ones, either—how would you describe Perun’s?). They are two divergent types of entities and the application of what we know about deities in this world is quite different (while linked).

I think it’s clear that I’m struggling to describe this without giving something away (if you haven’t noticed, let me assure you that I am). However, for fans of this world and fans of just good worldbuilding—Hearne does a great job with this stuff, if I didn’t know better*, I’d say that he started building toward this novel in Hammered.

* Okay, I don’t know better, he might have had this as part of his Master Plan all along. But I’m willing to bet he didn’t.

Al and the English

Al has to deal with a representative of the British government a few times over the course of this book as a part of his sigil agent duties. I honestly don’t know if I’ve been so purely entertained by Hearne (outside of an Oberon-heavy moment) as I was in reading Al’s narration during these parts.

He really doesn’t like this guy—and it’s tough to say that Al gives him a real chance before deciding to write him off—but the reader can understand why. I think that Al gets close to mean in his attitude and actions toward this man, but I don’t think he crosses the line. Then again, I was chuckling and highlighting so much in these interactions, I might have missed it.

So, what did I think about Candle & Crow?

I have said many good and complimentary things about the books in this series—and I stand by them—but this is what all of the Ink & Sigil books should’ve been like, at least at their core. We’ve seen a little of the Sigil Agent life, but there’s been a lot of other things going on, and not that much of it has to do with the administration and enforcement of contracts. It was just so cool to focus on that as much as we got to here. Yes, the big action stuff, taking on whacky monsters and nasty people experimenting on supernatural creatures and whatnot is pretty cool, too. But we get that kind of thing in all sorts of UF—we don’t get to see a lot of supernatural people wrangling with human governments over the wording of a hundred year old document* and the deadly ramifications of that wrangling not going well. It’s a shame that Hearne embraced this aspect of Al’s life so completely here at the end.

* Well, we get glimpses of that in The Rivers of London series, don’t we? But it feels very different.

I enjoyed every bit of this book—and am not sure how to talk about it without just blathering on and on about how good everything was. The action—and despite what I may have suggested earlier, there was plenty of it—was gripping and moved well. The emotional arcs of the characters were done with Hearne’s typical deftness (and maybe more than typical deftness). The humor was Hearne at his best. The magic at work was perfect, and…yeah. I just have nothing but compliments upon compliments here.

If you have any kind of emotional investment in Buck, Nadia, or Al going into this book, you will love the ending. It was a real treat, the last chapters just made me feel all warm inside.

I was so enthusiastic about this book that i think i might have convinced a friend to pick up the first IDC book just so he can catch up and appreciate all of this book—and another friend who’d read Hounded through Scourged to pick up this trilogy. And I’m more than ready to do that to anyone else reading this post.

I don’t know what Hearne’s next project will be, but I’m ready for it. In the meantime, I’m just going to bask in how wonderfully satisfying that Candle & Crow was.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine | Del Reyvia NetGalley—thanks to both for this.

5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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Candle & Crow by Kevin Hearne: Growing, Changing, and Moving On

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On September 23, 2024

In Fiction, Iron Druid Chronicles, Kevin Hearne, Urban Fantasy

Cover of Candle & Crow by Kevin HearneCandle & Crow

by Kevin Hearne

DETAILS:
Series: Ink & Sigil, #3
Publisher: Del Rey Books
Publication Date: October 1, 2024
Format: eARC
Length: 352
Read Date: September 13-18, 2024
Buy from Bookshop.org Support Indie Bookstores

What’s Candle & Crow About?

What isn’t this about? Al has to address a potential treaty violation of a group against some British citizens, which leads to some treaty re-negotiations; Gladys wraps up business she started in the last book, prepares to leave her job, and sees some shite; the Morrigan tries to settle among humans in her new body; Al, Buck, and Nadia are targeted by the police; Al has to help out his American counterpart with a tricky problem; Al gets a line on who cursed him; and…a few other things that I can’t figure out how to describe in a phrase or two.

Seriously, this book is busy. But somehow, it doesn’t feel crammed or over-stuffed; everything gets as much time as it needs to be addressed; everything makes sense; you don’t lose track of any plotlines; characters get to grow and develop (and be introduced!). And the last couple of chapters are so satisfying that I don’t care that I can’t finish this sentence properly.

A Trio of Druids

Fittingly for what Hearne has stated will be the last book in the universe of the Iron Druid Chronicles (I’m waiting for him to change his mind. Maybe a foolish hope, but it’s one nonetheless), we get to see all three of the Druids from that series for a little while—and none of them togther.

Working with his students has been good for Owen, Atticus—I mean, Connor—is in a good place (in several senses of that word), and Granuaile is…well, still Granuaile. I think I’ve mentioned she was getting on my nerves toward the end of IDC, and she’s still there. But she’s still essentially the same character—so if you weren’t annoyed by her, you’ll enjoy her appearance (I did, even with my attitude).

We got just enough time with them all to get a sense of where they are, what the future holds for them, and to see that they’re doing well—the events of Scourged are far enough past that they’ve settled into the next stage of their lives. It’s a good way to say goodbye to this world.

Deities

Since at least book 3 of the IDC we’ve had a good understanding of how gods, goddesses, and lesser deities function, live, and have power both now and throughout the ages. Hearne’s had Atticus and Al explain it a time or two since then, so faitful readers will get it.

But in these pages, we are given two examples (or three, depending on how you want to count something) of how this functions toward entities that aren’t part of the major pantheons (or minor ones, either—how would you describe Perun’s?). They are two divergent types of entities and the application of what we know about deities in this world is quite different (while linked).

I think it’s clear that I’m struggling to describe this without giving something away (if you haven’t noticed, let me assure you that I am). However, for fans of this world and fans of just good worldbuilding—Hearne does a great job with this stuff, if I didn’t know better*, I’d say that he started building toward this novel in Hammered.

* Okay, I don’t know better, he might have had this as part of his Master Plan all along. But I’m willing to bet he didn’t.

Al and the English

Al has to deal with a representative of the British government a few times over the course of this book as a part of his sigil agent duties. I honestly don’t know if I’ve been so purely entertained by Hearne (outside of an Oberon-heavy moment) as I was in reading Al’s narration during these parts.

He really doesn’t like this guy—and it’s tough to say that Al gives him a real chance before deciding to write him off—but the reader can understand why. I think that Al gets close to mean in his attitude and actions toward this man, but I don’t think he crosses the line. Then again, I was chuckling and highlighting so much in these interactions, I might have missed it.

So, what did I think about Candle & Crow?

I have said many good and complimentary things about the books in this series—and I stand by them—but this is what all of the Ink & Sigil books should’ve been like, at least at their core. We’ve seen a little of the Sigil Agent life, but there’s been a lot of other things going on, and not that much of it has to do with the administration and enforcement of contracts. It was just so cool to focus on that as much as we got to here. Yes, the big action stuff, taking on whacky monsters and nasty people experimenting on supernatural creatures and whatnot is pretty cool, too. But we get that kind of thing in all sorts of UF—we don’t get to see a lot of supernatural people wrangling with human governments over the wording of a hundred year old document* and the deadly ramifications of that wrangling not going well. It’s a shame that Hearne embraced this aspect of Al’s life so completely here at the end.

* Well, we get glimpses of that in The Rivers of London series, don’t we? But it feels very different.

I enjoyed every bit of this book—and am not sure how to talk about it without just blathering on and on about how good everything was. The action—and despite what I may have suggested earlier, there was plenty of it—was gripping and moved well. The emotional arcs of the characters were done with Hearne’s typical deftness (and maybe more than typical deftness). The humor was Hearne at his best. The magic at work was perfect, and…yeah. I just have nothing but compliments upon compliments here.

If you have any kind of emotional investment in Buck, Nadia, or Al going into this book, you will love the ending. It was a real treat, the last chapters just made me feel all warm inside.

I was so enthusiastic about this book that i think i might have convinced a friend to pick up the first IDC book just so he can catch up and appreciate all of this book—and another friend who’d read Hounded through Scourged to pick up this trilogy. And I’m more than ready to do that to anyone else reading this post.

I don’t know what Hearne’s next project will be, but I’m ready for it. In the meantime, I’m just going to bask in how wonderfully satisfying that Candle & Crow was.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine | Del Reyvia NetGalley—thanks to both for this.

5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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Redemptive History & Biblical Interpretation: The Shorter Writings of Geerhardus Vos Edited by Richard B. Gaffiin, Jr.: A Treasure of Briefer Theological Writings

By

On September 15, 2024

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Cover of Redemptive History & Biblical Interpretation by Geerhardus VosRedemptive History & Biblical Interpretation: The Shorter Writings of Geerhardus Vos

by Geerhardus Vos, edited by Richard B. Gaffin, Jr.

DETAILS:
Publisher: P & R Publishing 
Publication Date: June 1, 2021
Format: Hardcover
Length: 543 pg. 
Read Date: January 7-September 1, 2024

“Jehovah appeared of old unto me saying, Yea, I have loved thee with ap everlasting love, therefore have I drawn out long lovingkindness unto thee” (31:3), in order to do justice to their sweetness and beauty. This is like coming out of the waste of the wilderness into a land of paradise. Even quite objectively regarded, the piece has its ineffable charm. It is like a landscape bathed in the glow of the harvest-season. In the farther distance winds the caravan of returning captives, coming homeward with weeping and supplication along rivers of water. The people are seen flowing unto the goodness of Jehovah, to the grain, the new wine, and the oil. In the foreground rises Judah with her cities, a mountain resplendent in holiness. And the whole is made musical by the sound of tabrets in the dances of them that make merry. Still, while a delight in itself, the scene, in order to be fully enjoyed, should be seen through the eyes of the prophet. It sounds like the notes of a bird finding its cage unexpectedly open, and with delirious joy exploring the new-gained freedom. For once the vision and the seer’s deepest desire are perfectly blended. The lyre thrills in unison with something that sings itself within and needs no composing. The words move in absolute harmony with the graceful movements of the dancing virgins in the feast. Surely this prophet bore within himself a great poet. One cannot help feeling this even in his litanies with their forecast of doom on the sin of Israel. But most effectively, it shows itself in the larger and freer rhythms of the ascriptions of glory to Jehovah. It is in part a poet’s satisfaction, that at the receding of the tide of vision, finds voice in the spontaneous words, “Upon this I awaked and beheld, and my sleep was sweet unto me” (31:26). For the prophets are the only true interpreters of the sleeping or waking moments in which God communicated His word unto them.

What’s Redemptive History & Biblical Interpretation About?

Paraphrasing the Preface, the plan for this work was to include almost all of Vos’s work that wasn’t included in his “major works.” But there was just too much of it—so Gaffin limited this to his shorter works that weren’t sermons or that weren’t dated. We get seven “Major Biblical and Theological Studies,” sixteen “Shorter Biblical Studies,” two addresses, and nine book reviews.

Those reviews “either deal with books of continuing influence or provide a valuable statement of Vos’s own views.”

Major Studies

The book starts out with the heavy-weights of the collection20+ page articles on things like “The Eschatology of the New Testament,” “The Range of the Logos Title in the Prologue to the Fourth Gospel,” two (dynamite) pieces on the book of Hebrews, the Doctrine of the Covenant, and so on.

Most of these were worth the purchase price of the book as a whole—I’ve read entire volumes on some of these topics that didn’t give me as much to chew on as these did. Most of what he said in his article on Biblical Theology has been echoed by Vos’s students and readers for decades, so I didn’t get as much from that one as I’d hoped—but it was nice hearing it from his own pen.

Basically, just an outstanding way to start this book, and a great way to spend 270 or so pages.

The Shorter Studies and Addresses

These were a mixed bag of focused and impactful articles and some that had to settle for being interesting and thoughtful. There was one article here that went largely over my head—and probably relied too much on linguistic scholarship that has probably shifted a great deal in the century +/- since it was written. Sometimes—especially in these shorter pieces—you can see that Vos also dabbled in poetry, because some of the phrasing is so lyrical.

The addresses make me wish we had video—or at least audio—recordings of him. I bet those were fascinating to hear—they’re fascinating to read, but probably would give an extra punch when delivered. The first of the addresses, “The Scriptural Doctrine of the Love of God” is something I should read annually—at least.

Book Reviews

Dr. Denney’s latest book puts us under the strange necessity of heartily praising its contents and at the same time deploring most deeply the main purpose for which it was written. We confess to having seldom read a book productive of such a sudden and painful revulsion of feeling, from a sympathetic and enthusiastically admiring state of mind to one of sharp protest and radical dissent, as the work before us. Dr. Denney’s style and manner of presentation are so brilliant and yet so warm and genial, he carries us along so easily, so absolutely compels our belief in the irrefutableness of his argument, that, when he proceeds to make the disagreeable application, we find it more than ordinarily difficult to arrest the momentum of conviction acquired and turn our minds all at once in the opposite direction. The sense of disillusionment at the close is so poignant that it inevitably gives rise to the question, whether perhaps the profound agreement in which we imagined ourselves to be with the writer was not after all a delusion, arising from a misinterpretation on our part of the real drift of the discussion, so that, if we had only read more carefully and between the lines, we would have disagreed from the beginning. Whether the case lies actually as just stated or whether it is a simple instance of non sequitur between approved premises and a false conclusion, we find it extremely difficult to decide.

I really figured that the home stretch of this book contained in these reviews would be easy reading, and really something I could skim because who’d ever heard of most of these books? Wow, I could not have been more wrong (and, it had been months since I read the Preface, so I’d forgotten that “valuable statement of Vos’s own views” part).

To start with, we get reviews of the first two volumes of Bavinck’s Gereformeerde Dogmatiek (known in English as Reformed Dogmatics)—I wish we’d gotten reviews of all four volumes. What I found interesting here was how much what Vos said about these volumes matched what my friends, others in my Church, and I have said about Bavinck’s writing.

Then we move to the books he wasn’t quite so positive about—there are two books by Albert Schweitzer here, and I at least know a little about him, but the other names were new to me. I’m not positive, but I think that all but Bavinck fall under the “statement of Vos’s own views.” These all share a similar outline: a pretty glowing introductory paragraph, a quick synopsis of the work or its premise, and a very nice one-paragraph conclusion. He’s largely complimentary in these parts, recognizing the labor, the experience, and the intelligence of the author. It’s all the stuff in-between where Vos will talk about the many, many flaws of these works and will challenge the thinking, conclusions, and some of the basic assumptions involved. He is capable of appreciating the work and its strengths—and has no problem talking about them—but still talking about the faults, in a serious but not in an offensive or mean-spirited way. He really gives an example for his readers in that way.

He also does a bang-up job of working in those principles and types of argument that can be profitable, even if the works he’s talking about have faded from almost everyone’s memory.

So, what did I think about Redemptive History & Biblical Interpretation?

Let us not forget, however, that as of all theology, so of Biblical Theology, the highest aim cannot lie in man, or in anything that serves the crea. ture. Its most excellent practical use is surely this, that it grants us a new vision of the glory of Him who has made all things to the praise of His own wonderful name. As the Uncreated, the Unchangeable, Eternal God, He lives above the sphere of history. He is the Being and never the Becoming One. And, no doubt, when once this veil of time shall be drawn aside, when we shall see face to face, then also the necessity for viewing His knowledge in the glass of history will cease. But since on our behalf and for our salvation He has condescended to work and speak in the form of time, and thus to make His works and His speech partake of that peculiar glory that attaches to all organic growth, let us also seek to know Him as the One that is, that was, and that is to come, in order that no note may be lacking in that psalm of praise to be sung by the Church into which all our Theology must issue.

This is not going to come as a shock to anyone who’s read any of the things I’ve said about Vos in the previous four posts about his work, but this collection just knocked my socks off. I read an article a week and it was one of the highlights of the week for me to do so.

I learned a lot. Not just about Vos and his brand of theology, but about the Scriptures and the Lord who gave them to His Church so she would see Him and His glory in them.

The writing is fantastic. The thinking is even better. I had to think about a lot of this, to ponder and wrestle with it, and got to revel in it, too.

I can’t think of a reason to not read this book—it’ll reward careful reading (and casual reading, too—just not as richly). It’s just great stuff.

5 Stars

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Institutes of Elenctic Theology Vol. 2: Eleventh through Seventeenth Topics by Francis Turretin: A Master Class on Theology and Methodology Continues

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On September 1, 2024

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Yes, this is largely just a reworking of my post about Vol. 1. It’s not like I’m going to have a lot of different things to say about this, so why torture myself by trying? I reckon the same will be true in December/January when I write about Vol. 3. Still, it’s different enough to justify my time. Hopefully yours, too.

Institutes of Elenctic Theology Vol. 2Institutes of Elenctic Theology
Vol. 2: Eleventh through Seventeenth Topics

by Francis Turretin, George Musgrave Giger (Translator), James T. Dennison, Jr. (Editor)

DETAILS:
Series: Institutes of Elenctic Theology, Vol. 2
Publisher: P & R Publishing
Publication Date: February 1, 1994
Format: Hardcover
Length: 724 pg.
Read Date: May 5-Augst 25, 2024
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What’s Elenctic Theology Anyway?

Elenctic refers to a logical method involving asking questions, of defending a position (or arguing to persuade people to accept it) by proposing alternatives and asking a series of questions—practically cross-examing the alternatives, to show the problems of the alternatives. A good deal of what we call the “Socratic method” is elenctics.

Therefore, Elenctic Theology is a form of defending the truth of Christianity or Christian dogmas by suggesting alternatives and demonstrating their lack by way of asking and answering questions about them. Or by asking a question about a true dogma and asking questions that affirm them. Aquinas’ Summa Contra Gentiles is one example. This book is another.

What’s Institutes of Elenctic Theology Then?

For a long time, it was the standard textbook to train Presbyterian and Reformed ministers in various parts of the world—including the U.S.—until Charles Hodge’s systematic theology overtook it in popularity (Hodge, it should be noted had his students read Turretin’s Institutes).

Turretin wrote it at the height of Protestant Scholasticism, defending the Reformed understanding of Christianity in a post-Synod of Dordt and post-Westminster Assembly-era. He interacts with the best of Roman Catholic theology of the era, as well as Socinians, Remonstrants (read: Arminians), Lutherans, and others.

He examines the big issues of the time—and several smaller issues, as well. In this volume, of the 20 topics these volumes cover, we get topics 11-17. Yes, the last three topics get an excess of 600 pages devoted to them—he’s going to really get into the details with those. But I’m not thinking about that yet. The topics in this volume are:

bullet The Law of God
bullet The Covenant of Grace and Its Twofold Economy in the Old and New Testaments
bullet The Person and State of Christ
bullet The Mediatorial Office of Christ
bullet Calling and Faith
bullet Justification
bullet Sanctification and Good Works

Turretin’s Method

I think the best way to show how Turretin approaches these discussions is to show you the list of questions from one of the topics. Here’s what he looks at in the roughly 130 pages of The Fifteenth Topic: calling and Faith:
I. Are decrees in God, and how?
Il. Are the decrees of God eternal? We affirm against Socinus.
Ill. Are there conditional decrees? We deny against the Socinians, Remonstrants and Jesuits.
IV. Does the decree necessitate future things? We affirm.
V. Is the fixed and immovable end of the life of each man with all its circumstances so determined by the decree of God, that he cannot die in another moment of time or by another kind of death than that in which he does die? We affirm against the Socinians and Remonstrants.
VI. Ought predestination to be publicly taught and preached? We affirm.
VII. In what sense are the words “predestination,” prognōseōs, eklogēs and prosthesōs used in this mystery?
VIII. Was there a predestination of angels, and was it of the same kind and order with the predestination of men? The former we affirm; the latter we deny.
IX. Whether the object of predestination was man creatable, or capable of falling; or whether as created and fallen. The former we deny; the latter we affirm.
X. Is Christ the cause and foundation of election? We deny against the Arminians and Lutherans.
XI. Is election made from the foresight of faith, or works; or from the grace of God alone? The former we deny; the latter we affirm.
XII. Is the election of certain men to salvation constant and immutable? We affirm against the Remonstrants.
XIII. Can the believer be certain of his own election with a certainty not only conjectural and moral, but infallible and of faith? We affirm against the papists and Remonstrants.
XIV. Is the decree of reprobation absolute, depending upon the good pleasure (eudokia) of God alone; or is sin its proper cause? We distinguish.
XV. Is infidelity, or unbelief of the gospel, presupposed as a cause of reprobation? We deny against the Remonstrants.
XVI. Is the will of God to save persevering believers and condemn the unbelieving, the whole decree of reprobation? We deny against the Remonstrants.
XVII. Can there be attributed to God any conditional will, or universal purpose of pitying the whole human race fallen in sin, of destinating Christ as Mediator to each and all, and of calling them all to a saving participation of his benefits? We deny.
XVIII. Is any order to be admitted in the divine decrees, and what is it?

Like I said last time, I texted a friend saying that I wish I could break down an idea like Turretin. He made me feel a little better by replying, “You and everyone else born in the 20th century.” Because from these questions, he’ll spend a few pages breaking down the idea further, systematically working his way through the question and seemingly every possible angle of it.

There’s part of me that wants to abandon this re-read and just focus on observing his method and trying to replicate it in my life. I’m not going to, but it’s a thought.

There are times, however, where I wonder why Turretin would spend time on something like, “Was Christ caught up into heaven before beginning his public ministry in order to be taught there by the Father? We deny against the Socinians.” The answer is, obviously, that these were topics being discussed in the Church, and it seemed necessary to Turretin. It’s just so far out of our experience to think of.

So, what did I think about Institutes of Elenctic Theology Vol. 2?

Let me get this out of the way first: This is dry. Dry like a stale crouton. I know most people think that about Theology in general—and sure, bad theology is usually dry, but not the good stuff. This is one of those exceptions that proves the rule.

There are moments, I should note, that some of Turretin’s personality shows through, some moments expressing the awe appropriate to the topic, the emotions stirred by the Gospel, and even a little humor/snark at the thoughts of his opponents. But those moments are brief and rare. But they’re golden. There were segments in this book where Turretin focused on the gospel and some of those practically sung. It was just great.

As it’s dry, it’s a little harder to read than others (say, Calvin or Bavinck). But it’s absolutely worth the effort—and after a little while, you won’t notice the effort. It’s so crisp, so clear, so helpful that you relish getting to read it. Giger and Dennison likely are due as much credit for this as Turretin is. Giger’s also likely due some credit for the arid language (he was translating in the early Nineteenth Century, not one an era known for punchy prose).

I can’t recommend this highly enough.

We have now said enough on this subject. God grant that, dismissing a vain confidence in our own merit, we may rest in the most perfect merit of Christ alone and so keep faithful to him and fight the good fight even unto the end that we may receive a crown of righteousness; due not to our merit, but most graciously promised to us from the heavenly rewarder. To him, the author and finisher (archēgō kai teleiōtē) of our salvation, the one and triune God, “from whom, by whom and to whom are all things, be praise and glory world without end.” Amen.

5 Stars

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