Geoffrey Thomas

Essentials of Reformed Systematic Theology

Theology

“The mighty four volumes of Beeke and Smalley’s Reformed Systematic Theology, in their 5,200 pages, are an achievement that may never again be approached in the thoroughness, length, piety, doxology, accessibility, pithiness, sobriety, and trustworthiness of the creation. It is a deeply spiritual work—heavenly, profitable, and full of practical application. It is also a precious companion for every preacher, suitable for the man in his first pastorate and fresh for the retired preacher who still hungers and thirsts for wisdom and righteousness. Now the essentials have appeared—a synopsis, a compression of four volumes into a single book of 1,088 pages with summaries at the beginning of individual chapters, a focus on their highlights, and references to the enlargements of the themes in the more comprehensive four volumes for more needed study. This brilliant summary is where many will begin. It seems almost indispensable to have this single volume as a launching pad or as the handmaiden to the genius of the four giants of truth and godliness.”

Reformed Preaching

Theology

“Reformed preaching is simply ordinary preaching. Sermons that are faithful in their exposition and application to the hearers, rich in gospel content, Christ-centered in focus, and earnestly evangelistic in their calls to sinners to repent and entrust themselves to Jesus Christ—this is Reformed preaching. It is not long sermons and heavy preaching. It is the pulpit’s pastoral and reviving ministry to the body of Christ, most frequently on the Lord’s Day, generally to the assembly of the faithful, but mighty in addressing the world. It is delivering compassionate and heart-warming sermons, sometimes profoundly solemn sermons. It is, most of all, interesting, gripping preaching and life-changing pulpit fare; and once it has been heard, nothing else will ever satisfy an awakened soul that hungers for the living God. It is the believer’s weekly feast. How does one preach like that? Read this book for starters. You will be enlightened and motivated, and you will especially become prayerful, longing for the spread of this kind of ministry throughout the whole world.”