The Radiance of God
Christian Doctrine through the Image of Divine Light
- Theology
- Publisher: Cascade Books (Wipf and Stock)
- Published: 2021
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Publisher's Description
The image of God as light abounds in Scripture and the Christian tradition. In The Radiance of God, Douglas M. Koskela explores the theme of divine radiance across the span of Christian doctrine. The book develops a constructive account of the Christian gospel that traces the journey from darkness into the marvelous light of God. Drawing on an ecumenical range of voices in the tradition, Koskela frames the discussion in terms of three central concepts: allure, movement, and joy. The image of divine radiance suggests the sheer beauty of God that captivates the attention of God's creatures in wonder, love, and praise. The brilliance of this light initiates a process of movement toward it as the Holy Spirit transforms us in the image of Christ, the light of the world. The culmination of this journey is inexpressible and unending joy as we are immersed in the divine light. By following this threefold pattern through the classic loci of Christian doctrine, this volume offers a sustained and coherent treatment of the economy of salvation from creation to consummation.
Endorsements (4)
“In this beautifully written and compellingly argued book, Douglas Koskela charts a fresh ecumenical theology of light. The author powerfully illuminates such biblical texts as ‘I am the Light of the world’ (John 8:12) and many others. Highly recommended!”
“This beautifully written book is a model of good theological reflection. Koskela explores the Christian faith through the motif of light, a theme that is deeply rooted in Scripture, the Christian tradition, and our contemporary spiritual imagination. The result is a compelling presentation of the gospel that induces a desire to experience the glory of God and the joy of salvation.”
“Doug Koskela is among the most lucid writers working in theology today. In this new volume, he brings clarity to an old theme in Scripture and theology—the radiance of God—in a way that is both winsome and refreshing. Using the categories of systematic theology, he invites readers to contemplate the ways in which the divine light is alluring, transforming, and ultimately joyful. This is a case study in how good theology deepens delight in God.”
“Through using light to speak of the glory of God, Koskela invites us to view God and God’s work in the world from a fresh and remarkably illuminating perspective. As we are drawn to the divine light, he argues, we are transformed and then reflect that light into the world. While the sheer abundance of light imagery that he lifts from Scripture and tradition is impressive, even more important is his insightful reflection on their interconnections and import. Read this book and you will see both Scripture and theology in a new light.”
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