Reformed Systematic Theology, Volume 3

“With the publication of this third volume of Reformed Systematic Theology, the monumental Beeke and Smalley journey of theological exploration now takes us into territory overseen by the Holy Spirit. Here we are given a reverent survey of the biblical witness to his ministry; a five-hundred-page exposition of the ordo salutis; and an extensive exploration of the Beatitudes, the fruit of the Spirit, and the Decalogue, leading us appropriately to the loving fear of the Lord and prayer. Here the comprehensive knowledge of the Reformed tradition characteristic of volumes one and two is now combined with the authors’ specialist expertise in the experiential dimensions of biblical doctrine. Those who join them on the journey will find themselves traveling with reliable guides and agreeable companions. En route, students will find the information they require, pastors and teachers will discover the stimulus they need, and all Christian readers will receive a theological education that will help them to live coram Deo.”

Sinclair B. Ferguson

“I tell my students that I am not interested in theology that can’t be preached. I sense the same when reading this third volume. What we have here is a systematic theology that covers all bases—scholarly and pastoral, Reformed and worshipful. No topic is left unaddressed. A monumental achievement.”

Derek W. H. Thomas

“One of Joel Beeke’s most prized contributions to the field of systematic theology is his understanding that Christian theology is for living. A hallmark of Beeke's preaching and writing is that it follows Martin Bucer's dictum: ‘True theology is not theoretical, but practical. The end of it is living, that is to live a godly life.’ This present volume is no exception. Here is theology for the church of God and not just for the academy. It is a privilege to commend this latest volume, with the prayer that it will find its way into the bloodstream of the church.”

Ian Hamilton

“The third volume of Joel Beeke and Paul Smalley’s Reformed Systematic Theology gives attention to the doctrines of the Holy Spirit (pneumatology) and salvation (soteriology). We are treated to, among many other significant features, a knowledgeable defense of the ordo salutis, which sincerely engages the main objections to this important formulation of classic Protestant soteriology. We meet a beautiful exposition of the Holy Spirit and the historia salutis, which nicely complements the treatment of the ordo. The volume concludes, as you might have expected in a book coauthored by Joel Beeke, with a rich summary of the Holy Spirit’s work in the Christian experience of salvation (experientia salutis). I must confess that I turned immediately to peek at the section on preparatory grace and also that on assurance, knowing Beeke’s interest and expertise in those areas. I will be utilizing this volume as I teach systematic theology, and will be commending it to others. I’ve already learned and benefited from it greatly. This is a welcome addition to the current flourishing of Reformed systematics.”

Ligon Duncan

“This volume continues the heart-warming approach of volumes 1 and 2. I particularly admire the authors’ insightful and scrupulously fair exposition of positions with which they disagree. Their work offers a pretty comprehensive approach to different readings throughout the history of the subjects dealt with.”

Jonathan F. Bayes