Concise Reformed Dogmatics

"A treasure to be read again and again, making the heart leap for joy!" --MICHAEL HORTON A full treatment of Reformed systematic theology, this volume is accessible to church officers and interested lay readers, as well as teachers and students of theology. Like the celebrated Dutch edition, it is formatted with two visually distinct levels of discussion for use either as an introduction to theology or in an advanced study. J. van Genderen and W. H. Velema provide a complete, single-volume discussion of the many themes that belong in the dogmatics handbook: revelation, God, the decree of God, creation, providence, man as God's image, sin, Christ the mediator, the covenant of grace, salvation, the church, the means of grace, and eschatology. They take into account contemporary problems and deal critically with views of modern theology. Doctrine and life form a unity, the authors believe, and the knowledge and study of theology are of direct importance to ethics, preaching, and the life of faith. Endorsements: “This translation is a most welcome example of contemporary conservative dogmatic theology in our post-conservative age.” —Derek W. H. Thomas “For all but a few English speakers, insight into the world of contemporary confessional Dutch Reformed theology is limited to occasional glimpses. This translation opens a helpful, orthodox, window on discussions in the Netherlands and beyond and is a welcome contribution to the renaissance of Reformed dogmatics in our time.” —R. Scott Clark Review: "The appearance of this work in English is most welcome. Written from a confessionally Reformed perspective, with a special affinity for the work of Calvin and Herman Bavinck, it is alert to contemporary issues and problems without obscuring its primary concern to show the biblical basis of doctrines. Without sacrificing depth, it succeeds admirably with the wider circle of readers it has in view -- other theologically interested persons as well as pastors, and teachers, and students of theology." --Richard B. Gaffin Jr., Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology, Emeritus Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia "When an 800-page book has 'Concise' in its title, we expect a different perspective. Indeed, this book comes from the Netherlands, the land of Kuyper and Bavinck, where three- and four-volume theology texts are the rule. Indeed, 'Concise Reformed Dogmatics' is immersed in the theological traditions and dialogues of continental Europe, though its main allegiance is to the Scriptures by which, the authors say, all dogmas must be tested. English-speaking Christians should be better acquainted with the perspective of our European brothers. In this book we will get that broader picture, while being reminded that good, solid Reformed theology can be found in many locations. So the book edifies in both its similarities and its differences from the way we formulate doctrine." --John M. Frame, Professor of Systematic Theology and Philosophy, Reformed Theological Seminary "This book's title provides, in three words, a most helpful orientation to its contents. In the context of postmodernism's challenge, this 'Dogmatics' connects us with historic Christian doctrine. As a 'Reformed' dogmatics, this summary of classic Calvinism is textured with biblical richness and confessional fidelity. But equally important is the word 'Concise,' for this promises us the kind of accessibility and utility so difficult to package with responsible scholarship. The authors, translators, and publisher have served our generation well!" --Nelson D. Kloosterman, Professor of Ethics and New Testament Studies Mid-America Reformed Seminary, Dyer, Indian