Reformational Theology: A New Paradigm for Doing Dogmatics

by Gordon J. Spykman

Following the Biblical story line of creation, fall-redemption-consummation, Spykman's "new paradigm" systematics represents a notable revision of the traditional loci method-Spykman has reordered the basic Christian dogmas in a bold attempt to overcome the rationalist-scholastic influences inherent in the older method.

Genres: Theology

598 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1992

Reviews

[André · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a neo-calvinist attempt to write a Systematic theology. The positive aspects are its fight against dualisms (as all neo-calvinists do), its non-platonic, non-dualistic approach to creation and new creation, as well as its attempt to adopt categories from biblical theology, as Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. assessed in his Review article in Westminster Theological Journal 56 (1994), pp 379ff. The weak point, though, as often found in other neo-calvinists, is its allergy with scholasticism (medieval and post-reformation). I find kinda frustrating to read that the only trustworthy periods in Church History is the Apostolic period, then Reformation, then the neo-calvinist, because of its radical rejection of thomism and scholasticism (both Catholic and Protestant). His canon in evaluating Church history is anti-scholasticism. I find this weak.

[Dr. Z · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting and overall solid work on Systematic Theology, with a different organizational scheme and some Dutch influence that brings a certain freshness. I'm glad I read it but probably don't see it becoming a "go to" resource going forward, as most of the strengths are now replicated elsewhere.