Revelation, Redemption, and Response


Book Description

How does John Calvin understand and depict the relationship of God with humanity? Until this study, the most influential readings of Calvin have tended to assume a dialectical divine-human opposition as fundamental to his thought. In this fresh consideration of Calvin's Christian vision his consistent and pervasive appeal to the Trinity in understanding the divine-human relationship is delineated and imaginatively rendered. Tracing the trinitarian theme in its many dimensions throughout the reformer's work, Philip Butin offers a revised look at the vital role of the Trinity in Calvin's thought, in the process recovering Calvin as a significant historical source for contemporary trinitarian theological reflection.




The Role of Divine Grace in the Soteriology of Śaṃkarācārya


Book Description

This volume examines the role of divine grace in the non-dualist soteriology of Śaṃkara. The author argues that grace is an essential but generally overlooked feature in Śaṃkara’s enlightenment spirituality. Introductory chapters summarize recent developments in Śaṃkara research, Śaṃkara’s epistemology and ontology, ancient Vedāntic teachings on grace, and modern scholarly disagreement about grace in Śaṃkara’s Advaita system. The heart of the book consists of two lengthy exegetical chapters examining Śaṃkara’s key passages on grace from his dozen genuine works. The final chapter presents for the first time a systematic summary of Śaṃkara’s understanding of the operation and necessity of divine grace. This book provides a useful summary of Śaṃkara’s system as a whole besides offering a radical revision of the standard understanding of Śaṃkara’s soteriology. It also reveals that Śaṃkara was much more indebted in his thinking to his Vedantic predecessors than had hitherto been thought.







Athanasius


Book Description

In this volume, Khaled Anatolios presents a comprehensive study of Saint Athanasius, one of the most influential figures in the development of Christian doctrine. He analyzes the coherence of Athanasius' theology by relating the various aspects of his doctrine - God, creation, theological anthropology, Christology and redemption, and the life of grace - to a pervasive emphasis on the radical distinction, and simultaneous relation, between God and world. Athanasius: The Coherence of his Thought provides a systematic account of the overall inner logic of the Athanasian vision. It shows how the various aspects of his doctrine are mutually related and in so doing elucidates the complexities both of Athanasian thought and Christian doctrine in general.




The Oxford Handbook of Karl Barth


Book Description

Karl Barth (1886-1968) is generally acknowledged to be the most important European Protestant theologian of the twentieth century, a figure whose importance for Christian thought compares with that of Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, John Calvin, Martin Luther, and Friedrich Schleiermacher. Author of the Epistle to the Romans, the multi-volume Church Dogmatics, and a wide range of other works - theological, exegetical, historical, political, pastoral, and homiletic - Barth has had significant and perduring influence on the contemporary study of theology and on the life of contemporary churches. In the last few decades, his work has been at the centre of some of the most important interpretative, critical, and constructive developments in in the fields of Christian theology, philosophy of religion, and religious studies. The Oxford Handbook of Karl Barth is the most expansive guide to Barth's work published to date. Comprising over forty original chapters, each of which is written by an expert in the field, the Handbook provides rich analysis of Barth's life and context, advances penetrating interpretations of the key elements of his thought, and opens and charts new paths for critical and constructive reflection. In the process, it seeks to illuminate the complex and challenging world of Barth's theology, to engage with it from multiple perspectives, and to communicate something of the joyful nature of theology as Barth conceived it. It will serve as an indispensable resource for undergraduates, postgraduates, academics, and general readers for years to come.




The Wonderful Decree


Book Description

Unconditionally loving. Sovereign over all. How can God be sovereign over all things and loving towards all people while His creatures possess real freedom and responsibility for their choices? Theologians have wrestled with this question for centuries. But have our attempted solutions made the problem worse? In Wonderful Decree, Travis James Campbell suggests we cannot solve the problem by sacrificing either divine sovereignty and goodness on one hand or human responsibility on the other. While considering Arminian and Molinist alternatives, he concludes that the traditional Augustinian and Calvinist approach best allows these truths to remain in a healthy and biblically-faithful tension. Inspired by the example of Spurgeon, who preferred biblical mystery over human solutions, Campbell encourages readers to trust—even delight—in the harmony of God's love for all and sovereignty over all.




EXPLAINING THE DOCTRINE OF SALVATION


Book Description

"EXPLAINING THE DOCTRINE OF SALVATION: Basic Bible Doctrines of the Christian Faith" is a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of the multifaceted concept of salvation from a Christian perspective. Authored by a renowned conservative Bible scholar, this book delves into the depths of Biblical teachings, offering a detailed examination of salvation's various aspects as portrayed in the scriptures. The book is a compelling resource for theologians, pastors, students of theology, and any Christian seeking a deeper understanding of their faith. Key Features: In-Depth Biblical Analysis: Each chapter methodically examines key Biblical narratives—from Noah's Ark to the Babylonian Exile—highlighting their significance in the broader context of salvation. Critical Examination of Calvinism: The appendices provide a thorough critique of Calvinist doctrines such as Total Depravity and Unconditional Election, presenting scriptural counterarguments for a more balanced view of salvation. Focus on Enduring Faith and Repentance: The book emphasizes the necessity of ongoing faith, challenging the notion of 'Once Saved, Always Saved' and advocating for a dynamic understanding of Christian perseverance. Balanced Theological Perspective: While critiquing certain doctrinal viewpoints, the book maintains a respectful approach, fostering a nuanced understanding of complex theological issues. Accessible to a Broad Audience: Written in clear, comprehensible language, the book addresses both the scholarly community and lay Christians, making complex theological concepts accessible to all. Audience Appeal: "EXPLAINING THE DOCTRINE OF SALVATION" is particularly suited for readers interested in Biblical studies, Christian theology, and church history. Its thorough analysis makes it an invaluable resource for theological students, educators, clergy, and laypersons desiring a deeper understanding of Christian salvation doctrines. Overall, this book offers a rich, scripturally grounded exploration of salvation, challenging traditional views while encouraging readers to engage deeply with Biblical teachings. It's an essential addition to any theological library, promising to enlighten, educate, and inspire its readers.







The Ways of Our God


Book Description

At a time when Old Testament and New Testament studies are considered to be two very different tasks, this major new work by Charles Scobie offers an approach to biblical theology meant to take in the entire sweep of divine revelation. Comprehensive in scope, this book covers every aspect of biblical theology. Chapters are devoted first to the nature and task of biblical theology and then to major themes within the biblical message -- God's order, God's servant, God's people, and God's way. Each section of the book also features an extensive system of helpful cross-references. Not only is Scobie's attempt to bridge the biblical testaments admirable, but he also takes great care to present scholarship that is at the same time informed by, and relevant to, the daily life and work of the church. The result is a book that is relevant to readers everywhere. Accessible to teachers, clergy, students, and general readers alike, this book will reinvigorate the study of the Bible as the unified word of God.




Orthodox and Wesleyan Ecclesiology


Book Description