J. Mark Beach

Divine Will and Human Choice

Theology

“At long last we have a comprehensive historical study of the Reformed understanding of divine will and human free choice in its pre-Edwardsian formulation. Muller's analysis first introduces readers to the current state of the question, focusing particularly on synchronic contingency and its variant understandings. With a close reading of primary sources--reaching back to the various receptions of Aristotelian ideas among the medievals and centering on Aquinas and Duns Scotus--Muller unpacks how early Reformed thinkers and their heirs, the Reformed orthodox, treated matters surrounding necessity, contingency, and freedom relative to the divine will. Engaging the most prominent Reformed writers, including Calvin, Zanchius, Junius, Gomarus, Twisse, Owen, Voetius, and Turretin among others, this study demonstrates how these matters have been forgotten or misapprehended in modern discussions. Muller's work amply succeeds in showing how the Reformed orthodox knit a theological garment that does not well fit the modern categories and nomenclature of incompatibilism (or libertarianism) and compatibilism, that is, an indeterminism versus a raw determinism. In doing so, this volume is destined to propel the theological discussion surrounding necessity, contingency, and human freedom for decades to come.”

Some Questions and Answers about God’s Covenant and the Sacrament That Is a Seal of God’s Covenant

Theology

“What a delight to have Robert Rollock's catechism on the divine covenants in English translation! Denlinger's presentation of these materials (along with a translation of relevant portions of Rollock's Romans commentary pertaining to the covenant) brings a fresh portrait to the emergence and growth of Reformed federal theology; and his fine introductory essay reveals new aspects of Scottish covenant theology in particular. This book is a most welcome addition to scholarship treating Robert Rollock and covenant theology.”