Cornelis P. Venema

Covenant Theology

Theology

“In the history of Reformed theology, the biblical teaching of the triune God’s sovereign initiative to enter into covenant union and communion with his people, before and after the fall into sin, has been a central focus, and some say it even defines Reformed theology. For this reason, the contributors to this comprehensive volume, which treats the topic of the covenant or covenants in biblical, historical, and systematic perspectives, provide a wonderful overview of Reformed theology’s engagement with Scripture’s teaching. Encyclopedic in scope, balanced in tone and temper, sensitive to diversity of expression and formulation—this volume is a model of theological study and an indispensable resource for anyone who has interest in exploring the scriptural witness to God’s covenant.”

Crisis of Confidence

Theology

“Carl Trueman’s case for what he terms ‘the creedal imperative’ of the Christian faith is spot-on. Trueman not only identifies but also deftly rebuts a number of traditional as well as more-recent objections in contemporary culture to creeds and confessions. On the one hand, he shows the untenability of the ‘no creed but Christ, no book but the Bible’ position of many evangelical Christians. And on the other hand, he defends the use of creeds and confessions that summarize and defend the teaching of Scripture without supplementing Scripture or diminishing its authority.”

Merit and Moses

Theology

“"In recent years, a number of Reformed writers have advanced the claim that the Mosaic covenant or economy was 'in some sense' a republication of the covenant of works. According to these writers, the Republication doctrine was a common emphasis in the history of Reformed theology, and even forms an important part of the basis for the biblical doctrine of justification. The authors of this volume present a clear and compelling case against this claim. Rather than a reaffirmation of a forgotten, integral feature of Reformed theology, the authors argue that the modern republication doctrine seems inconsistent with the historic Reformed understanding of the covenant of works and the covenant of grace. A helpful contribution.”

Systematic Theology

Theology

“Robert Letham’s Systematic Theology is located within the great tradition of Christian theology, drawing upon Patristic, medieval, Reformational, and contemporary sources. Letham keeps his focus where it belongs—upon the unfathomable richness of the triune God in his being and works. He expounds difficult topics in simple, concise prose, yet without being simplistic. Where Letham occasionally offers fresh formulations of doctrinal topics, he invariably does so in a way that is respectful toward more traditional treatments. Theologians, students of theology, and church members alike will find Letham’s work a wonderful gift to the church.”