Systematic Theology, Volume One: From Canon to Concept

by Stephen J. Wellum

“ Systematic Theology is a tour de force!”
—Gregg R. Allison, professor of Christian theology, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Trinitarian, reformational, and baptistic, Stephen Wellum’s Systematic Theology models a serious evangelical engagement with the Scriptures while being grounded in church history and keenly aware of contemporary issues. Building on decades of research, Wellum formulates doctrine exegetically, covenantally, and canonically for a new generation of students, pastors, church leaders, and seasoned theologians.

Genres: Theology, Reference, Christian

1008 pages, Hardcover

Published February 15, 2024

About the author

Stephen J. Wellum (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is professor of Christian theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, and editor of the Southern Baptist Journal of Theology. Stephen lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with his wife, Karen, and their five children.

Reviews

[Dr. David Steele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stephen J. Wellum has contributed significantly to the thorny questions of redemptive history that help bridge the gap between Presbyterian covenant theology and Dispensational theology. Kingdom Through Covenant, co-authored with Peter J. Gentry, provides biblical answers that unlock the answer to questions that the church has posed for ages.

In his most recent work, Systematic Theology: From Canon to Concept, Dr. Gentry makes another significant contribution. Volume 1 contains four parts, including:

Introduction

The Revelation of the Triune God Who Speaks

The Biblical-Theological Framework of Scripture

From Biblical Theology to Theological Formulation

Each part contains riveting prose that turns the attention of readers to God’s redemptive work from the creation to the cross of Christ. The section of Providence is worth the price of the book!

There is only one significant disappointment; one that I will probably receive criticism for. Dr. Wellum does not embrace eternal relational authority submission Trinitarianism (ERAS). His arguments against ERAS are not compelling and only strengthen my convictions concerning ERAS. Thankfully, his critique is fair-minded and humble, which is a pleasant twist in this contentious debate.

Overall, I commend this remarkable work and trust that it will receive a wide readership.

[Ben Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this one early and have made my way through portions already. It’s as expected in every way. Well worth your time!

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent volume of reformed, presuppositional systematics.

[Nathan Pettit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolute dominant read. Wellum articulates clearly and sufficiently. I would highly recommend this as a reference on certain theological topics.

[Breton Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stephen Wellum is currently my favorite theologian. As his other works are well written and thorough, this one does not disappoint either. He is clear up front with his theological convictions and unapologetically writes from that framework: catholic, reformational, baptistic, progressive Covenantal and intratextual (building his systematic theology from a whole-Bible Biblical Theology). This first of 2 Volumes begins with the normal prolegomena and works up to doctrines of Divine Providence. Highly recommend this book especially for those of us Baptists who don’t sit neatly in 1689 Or dispensational circles.

[Sam Clapp · Rating 5 out of 5]

My brain has been stretched. My favorite subjects off the top of my head were dual agency, divine simplicity, and the self-attestation of Scripture. It was dense and full of insight and yet understandable for someone like me who has never read a book like this before. I especially liked how Wellum would carefully break down incorrect interpretations of the Bible and always refer back to Scripture as the ultimate authority for any conclusions he presented.

[Keller (Charles Hack) Hackbusch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Stephen Wellum Systematic Theology
From Canon to Context

After many years of rumors and waiting, Wellum’s ST is here!

Stephen Wellum has been one of my favorite theologians and authors for quite some time now and this newest systematic theology book only serves to reinforce my appreciation for what he writes and how he writes. I studied systematic theology in seminary and have read a lot of systematic theology books and smaller doctrinal volumes. Wellum continues to be in my top go-to resources on any topic.

First, the content of his Systematic Theology is incredible. The book addresses:
1) Why and How we do theology. This was fantastic. Wellum has a great grasp on our day. This shows up in his attention to detail and thoroughness.

2) The Revelation of the God, including the Doctrine of God. This section was so precise and well thought out. It is also worth the price of the book!

3) Wellum deals with Biblical-Theological concerns. While this section is similar to the work found in Kingdom Through Covenants and the Progressive Covenantalism books, it is a fresh and helpful discussion of how the scriptures are put together, the emphasis of covenants, and a helpful critique of traditional Covenant Theology and Dispensationalism. He also addresses 1689Federalism, which many have wanted to see addressed. I will also add here that while Wellum is the tip of the spear for Progressive Covenantalism, this systematic theology is far more than an argument for the theological system. Everyone will benefit from Wellum’s treatment of major topics and his debate with historical figures and our current culture.

4) The final section deals with God, his attributes, and the Trinity. Again, it is worth the price of the whole book as he deals with current issues and demonstrates a great grasp of the issues of our time and of the past. Incredible!

Secondly, I want to add that Wellum writes in an interesting and easy to understand way. He has the rare ability to write in a way that makes complex topics understandable. Because of this God given gift, the theologian, the average everyday pastor, and the christian in the pews will benefit greatly from this work. Well done, Dr. Wellum!

Wellum has proven that he is a theologian and teacher to listen to. I can’t recommend this book highly enough. Keep in mind this is only volume 1 of what is planned to be 2 volumes…I can’t wait to get volume 2 where he will deal with man, christ, salvation, and eschatology.

[Conrad Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

There have never been more Systematic Theology Volumes available than there are today, and this might be one of the best ever written. Stephen Wellum has written a clear, accessible, thorough volume that will serve the Church well for many years to come. This volume will not only instruct your mind in the things of God, but will also move your heart to worship the triune God, who is our Creator, Redeemer and covenant Lord.

At the beginning of the volume Wellum states, "My earnest prayer is that in some small way this work will encourage the evangelical church to think theologically in every area of life for God’s glory and the life and health of the church... What is needed is not less theology but more; not the lowest common denominator theology, but robust theology that takes God at his word and glories in Christ Jesus as Lord! (xviii)" This prayer was answered in my life, and I trust that it will be true for each reader of this volume as well.

This work aims to say nothing new, is committed to the Reformation solas, unashamedly Baptist, Progressive Covenantal, and is convinced that systematic theology arises from the entire canon of Scripture (xvi-xvii). For these reasons, and many more, I commend this volume and eagerly await the release of Volume 2.

[Nathan Fisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

I only read about 80% of it for Systematic 1 for seminary, the only section not required was the portion on the doctrine of Scripture. That being said, it felt like there was a lot of unnecessary information in a book that’s primary function is to go over the Doctrine of Scripture and Theology Proper. Wellum had a natural bend to philosophy and apologetics that came out heavily in this book, and while good, I’m not sure if this was the space for it. He spent about 150 pages going over the nature of Systematic Theology, which seemed largely unnecessary and at times redundant. It could have easily been a 30-40 page introduction. He also spent 150 pages on Progressive Covenantalism, which in my opinion, doesn’t really belong in a volume 1 on Systematics, and probably should be put in the volume regarding ecclesiology. In addition, he was pretty surface level on a lot of his explanations, and had weak argumentation at certain points. Overall it’s still a good systematic, just felt lacking given the size of it. If you’re philosophically bent, you will love this work though.

Another point that definitely made the experience less enjoyable is that the book is almost word for word his lectures at various points. If you read this book you’ve gotten 90+% of his ST 1 class.

[Jonathan Ginn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Started this back in January and have been reading it a little bit at a time throughout the year. A terrific first volume in a multi-part systematic theology written from a largely Reformed Baptist perspective. Wellum lays a robust biblical, historical, and philosophical foundation for the doing of theology. Unique to this particular project is the progressive covenantal framework according to which Wellum approaches the task of biblical interpretation and theological formulation. His prose exudes a firm commitment the Word of God and Scripture's unfolding storyline, a respectful deference to the historic contributions made by past theologians, and a clarity and depth of thought that is second to none.

[Joel Opificius · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Wellum has a well-organized Systematic Theology with a consistent and sound methodology. Wellum is a top-notch scholar in systematics, and this may be one of his best works yet. I’ve already completed my M.Div Systematic Theology courses, but I continued to learn even more as I read this book.

There’s some dense material in here, but it never comes across as boring. Each page declares the glory of our triune covenant God. In my opinion, this book should begin to be the new standard M.Div level courses at Baptist Seminaries.

Looking forward to volume 2.

[Chloe W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book! Highly recommend for anyone seeking a broad overview of systematic theology through the understanding of a covenantal reformed theologian.

[Michael Abraham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Wellum makes a clear and compelling biblical-theological argument.

[Kelton Zacharias · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Wellum is my favorite living theologian – I had the privilege of studying with him at Southern. This systematic theology was a delight to read. I especially appreciate his treatment of theological method, his section critiquing naturalism, and his emphasis throughout on God’s aseity.

[David Romaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my theological journey from years of training in dispensational theology, to intense study of covenant theology, and finally committing to progressive covenantalism, Stephen Wellum and his writings have been instrumental in my finding a final theological resting place. It is difficult to decide exactly what superlatives to use in describing Wellum’s Systematic Theology volume 1. My first read through this work has already triggered streams of theological thought that I have no doubt will prove to be valuable. It is a long-awaited work by those following his thinking and I will be waiting expectantly for the second volume of the 2-volume set.

Wellum’s system is clearly Reformed and covenantal. A brief scan of the resources he uses in the footnotes reveals a host of Reformed theologians both early and current – Bavink, Turretin, Vos, Horton, Vanhoozer, etc. But he does not subscribe to the covenant theology system and explains why he does not. Neither does he advocate dispensational theology. Rather, Wellum presents a theological system as a via media between dispensationalism and covenant theology.

He aptly defines theology as faith seeking understanding in order to think God's thoughts after him, and as an objective discipline dependent on the Bible. Theology is not a set of ideas based upon multiple worldviews. It is based on the Bible as the standard authority for understanding what God wants us to know about himself.

In this volume Wellum discusses prolegomena, bibliology, and theology proper, but with an interesting turn he includes bibliology as part of theology proper. His rationale for that approach is that the written revelation is the result of God’s self-revelatory speech-act, so should be included under discussion of God himself. The second volume will include the other systematic loci of anthropology, hamartiology, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology.

I will leave detailed descriptions of this work to other reviewers, but I have two simpy.le and obvious observations that most impressed me: 1.) Wellum’s presentation of prolegomena is lengthy, over 150 pages, but it includes essential discussions not found in many other systematic theologies. Wellum astutely explains why study of an evangelical systematic theology is an essential requirement for the current church. 2.) He provides careful guidance to the reader with logic flow in the text of the topics covered. Rather than force the reader to determine the three or four or five points in the discussion of each topic, Wellum consistently signifies each main point of his logic with italicized ordinals. I sincerely appreciated this very helpful structure as I worked through the complex philosophical and theological topics in each of the systematic loci. He also provides non-italicized ordinals for subsets of each main point where warranted.

Wellum’s presentation is always clear, precise, and understandable. While working through this volume will be a rewarding challenge to the untrained lay reader, Wellum writes in a style that is easy to read and understand along with his careful presentation of logic flow. The presentation of each of his main points usually follows the sequence with definition of terms, historical treatment, discussion of alternative views, explanation of his view of each topic, and scriptural support for his view.

We are all blessed by Wellum’s years of theological experience, and the enormous effort spent to produce this volume. This work is truly a must read for those interested in theology, and especially those interested in comparing theological systems.

Soli Deo gloria.

[Nicholas Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stephen Wellum's first volume of his Systematic Theology is an absolute must-have for students wanting to go into theology. The volume is not a breeze but remains accessible while retaining depth for those willing to mine for the gold that comes from it.

Wellum's Systematic is a significant work that expertly pulls together various threads of Trinitarianism, Biblical Theology, Historical Theology, Contemporary concerns, etc., into a smooth and enjoyable read.

With the set predicted to be two volumes, volume one covers an introduction to Systematic Theology (ch. 1 – 4), Revelation – general and special (ch. 5-12), Biblical Theology – notably Progressive Coventantalism (ch. 12-15) and Theology Proper/Trinitarianism (ch. 16-23) from the Triunity of God to the providence of God.

For me, this book's most notable and important aspect is that it is Trinitarian through and through (and classical in its Trinitarianism). The chapters on the subject specifically make it worth picking up in itself. Of particular note about this Systematic is that it's the first to be written from a Progressive Covenantal framework (contra. Covenant Theology or Dispensationalism). Some notes for others: it is presuppositional in its overall perspective, Reformed in its doctrine of God's decree and providence, and Stephen Wellum writes from a Baptistic perspective.

This book is 937 pages before the index, so it has a lot to chew on, but it is written in a way that is accessible and certainly not dry. My only complaint with the volume is its physical dimensions. Additionally, while I was initially dubious about volume one only ranging from Introductions to Theology Proper, one can easily see why this set has been broken up as one begins engaging with Wellum's work.

I highly recommend this book and will be recommending this Systematic going forward, and I am eagerly awaiting volume 2.

[Paul Hess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Wellum is an excellent theologian. I have had the privilege of having him as a professor in several seminary classes, and the quality of his classes are reflected in his work of systematic theology. Wellum's work is God-centered, Christ-shaped, and church-focused. His book is robust, but without overwhelming readers. It's a work that is useful to both the seminary student and the layman. Christians of all stripes will be edified by this work.

Wellum embraces the historical tradition of the church and Reformed theology without losing sight of biblical theology. He interweaves systematic/historical theology and biblical theology with skill. While I don't hold to Wellum's particular view of covenant theology (Wellum is a Progressive Covenantalist while I am a 1689 Federalist), he develops his position well.

If I had a couple quibbles, it would be that he employs some pretty significant metaphysical assumptions without clarifying what those assumptions are. He follows Van Til and Frame quite heavily on epistemology (which would be revealed epistemology, which is more of an idealist metaphysic), but in other areas he appears to adopt a realist metaphysic. I think his work would've been helped by clarity on his metaphysical approach. I personally hold to a realist metaphysic and so I part company with Wellum at times, but setting that aside, I think some additional discussion of this point would help readers.

The other is that I think his comparison of Progressive Covenantalism and 1689 Federalism could be developed more. The comparison is does is excellent and I think fairly represents both sides, but considering how similar the views are, I think some more comparison here might be helpful for readers to understand the nuances of the two views.

But quibbles aside, Wellum's work is top-notch and should be a must-have addition to any seminary student's library.

[Philip Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal job here from Wellum. For context, I've done a systematic theology textbook every year for the last 10 years, and this one honestly might have to take the cake. Wellum is probably my favourite living theologian, so I was expecting to enjoy this, but didn't think I'd come away this chuffed. This the first volume of (at least) two, and it really allowed Wellum to take his time to wade through stuff. Broadly speaking, in Volume 1, he works through his doctrine of Scripture and moves from there into Theology Proper. His treatment of Scripture was super robust, careful, and—I think—bang on. He critiques opposing takes thoroughly, and does a substantial historical survey of various religious and philosophical movements that have led to large rejection of what he calls the "received view." His stuff on the covenants and their relationship to the storyline of Scripture is right on the money. The stuff on canon was really good. 2 thumbs up from me here.

His doctrine of God stuff was super useful for me in processing some of the recent retrieval movements in terms of "classical theology." Though Wellum is thoroughly Van Tillian, he does make a strong biblical case for these "classical" doctrines compellingly, critiquing Grudem, Frame, and others along the way, and clarifying what these doctrines do (and do not mean) in a way that left me feeling pretty content. The stuff on providence, decrees, foreknowledge etc etc. was great.

I think what stood out throughout was how Wellum has tried to write this Systematic Theology for now. He addresses and interacts with all the well known people of today and their arguments. He's not afraid to tip over idols, and explain exactly what a particular point of Christian theology means for some pagan cultural practice or idea. Probably will be my book of 2025.

[Jeffrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not finished yet, but this systematic theology has been a genuinely enjoyable read. Wellum's writing style is easy, even when he is discussing deep concepts; he covers the bases of historic Christian doctrines while articulating them in a coherent, relevant way; and his engagement with other authors, both pro and con, is extremely helpful.

The first part, covering prolegomena and the landscape of Christian theology and our modern times, is a thorough and helpful review of what systematic theology is, why it's important, how historic Christian doctrine has been eschewed and twisted (e.g., the Enlightenment, Neo-Orthodoxy, Progressive Christianity, etc.), and how we can and must recover, maintain, and engage in Christian theology. Here especially, Wellum surveys the landscape of major proponents of each worldview and offers valuable insights for students in this regard for who to read and how to think about different worldview & theological commitments.

The second part, covering the doctrine of Scripture, is a helpful summary, covering the major areas related to Scripture (general.& special revelation, authority, inspiration, infallibility & inerrancy, sufficiency & clarity, and canon). All in all, it is a thorough defense of the historic Christian doctrine of Scripture as articulated in the major Protestant confessions & statements (Westminster and 1689 London Baptist in particular, but also the Chicago Statements and the Baptist Faith & Message 2000).

This is an incredible systematic theology for our modern age that will surely prove helpful as Christians, especially college & seminary students, learn how to engage with 21st-century Western society and articulate Christian beliefs in a spirit of wisdom.

[Mark Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Stephen Wellum (Southern Seminary) has produced a magnificent and modern work of theology in his book Systematic Theology (Vol 1). Dr. Wellum’s book builds on key insights from his previous biblical theology, Kingdom Through Covenant (co-authored with his colleague at Southern Seminary, Dr. Kenneth Gentry) and his prior work on Christology, God the Son Incarnate.

Systematic Theology is situated broadly within the Reformed Baptist tradition but it is constructively augmented with some of the theological conclusions previously expressed in Kingdom Through Covenant (conclusions which now fall under the moniker “Progressive Covenantalism.”) Those conclusions relate primarily to, first, a rethinking the application of the Ten Commandments to the Church (by rightly questioning the utility of the historic threefold division of the Old Covenant law); and second, a rethinking of the classic terminology “Covenant of Works” within Reformed Theology as an overarching paradigm that categorizes the biblical covenants. These are significant and positive developments reflected in Systematic Theology.

Systematic Theology (Vol 1) contains considerable discussion relating to the philosophical developments of the last few centuries (with the resulting negative impacts on the modern Church) and in this way the book functions as both a Christian apologetic and a buttress against the storms of modern/postmodern thought which presently assail the Church. Dr. Wellum is well-acquainted with the theological legacy of Karl Barth, and many of his conclusions regarding the doctrine of God’s revelation wisely build off the work of some of his fellow evangelical theologians, particularly Drs. Kevin Vanhoozer and D.A. Carson.

Systematic Theology (Vol 1) is conversant with modern discussions relating to Trinitarian questions (such as the nature of the eternal relationship between the Father and the Son, sometimes referred to as EFS, “Eternal Functional Subordinationism,” or ERAS, “Eternal Relation of Authority/Submission.”) In this book, Dr. Wellum graciously and yet explicitly rejects the trinitarian position of his colleague Dr. Bruce Ware.

While some current proponents of allegorical exegesis (in keeping with the “Great Tradition”) might object to some of Dr. Wellum’s convictions pertaining to hermeneutics (expressed in Part 2 of Systematic Theology), this difference in methodology does not detract from the other conclusions in this work of theology. Indeed, many of the affirmations of what has been called Classical Theism (i.e., the theology of the Great Tradition) are reflected here, such as the doctrines of Divine Simplicity, Divine Immutability, Divine Impassibility, etc. My only substantive difference with Dr. Wellum would be in this area of hermeneutics; I believe scholars like Dr. Brevard Childs with his canonical approach and Dr. David Steinmetz with his encouragement of allegorical exegesis (see his essay “The Superiority of Pre-Critical Exegesis”) have immensely benefitted evangelical scholarship.

I strongly recommend this book and I anticipate its wide usage especially in training pastors, church-planters, missionaries, lay church leaders, and thoughtful Christians within Reformed Evangelicalism. I look forward to the second volume!

[Dan Stagg III · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Wellum has blessed Baptists, and the greater church, with an incredible addition to the world of systematic theology.

Of course, his writing style is suitable for all (one also can nearly hear his voice, as an aside). At the same time, Wellum’s adept synthesis is something I have not experienced, to such degree, with other ST works. His treatment of tenets and rich use of prior works/authors that are either prominent or directly relevant (or both) are top tier and add great depth to what is also a scholarly contribution for both seminarians and pastors.

One will easily sense that the overarching singular redemption plan of the triune God from eternity past, as demonstrated and fulfilled through the covenants, is never lost amidst the author’s systematization.

Finally, his chapters on “The Attributes of Our Triune God” and “The Triune God of All Glory” are unforgettable.

We have been long past-due on receiving such a treasure from Baptist scholars. As there will be a Volume II, should our Lord tarry, we are in store for a remarkably edifying closure to this ST work.

Theology is for the church, and we know that works such as this will bless many local kingdom outposts around the world.

[John Ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just over 20 years ago, I encountered the work (and life) of Stephen Wellum. Entering Southern Seminary, I was confused as to what systematic “camp” I fit into. Wellum’s concise and coherent Biblical approach made so many things clear and with him I found a place in Progressive Covenantalism before it was labeled as such. That is why I recommend Wellum’s Systematic Theology! His clarity and fidelity to God and His Word have shaped my thinking and approach to God’s Word and God’s creation.

Like most systematic theologies, “From Canon to Concept” is thick, but the reader will find himself moved along by an author who wants his readers to understand what God has said and why it is important for the life of the Church. Passion for God and His Word is seen as the reader is taken to the highest of heights to encounter the Word of God and the God of the Word and called to live in light of such revelation. Nothing esoteric here! However, that does not mean the scholarship is in any way diminished, far from it! Wellum’s Systematic will be as useful in the hands of the seasoned pastor and theolgian as it is in the hands of those in the church longing to “think God’s thoughts after Him”.

Tolle Lege! You and those around you will be better served in so doing!

[Cole Michaels · Rating 5 out of 5]

This first volume is a great resource in the study of why and how we do systematic theology, the doctrine of Scripture, and theology proper. It comes from a Reformed Baptist Progressive Covenantalism perspective and spends many of its pages defending that view of Scripture and Theology Proper while also engaging with other views held within the church and outside of it. The book is definitely not light reading but it is not so technical that one is lost when reading or listening to it. Personally, I read it digitally so I was able to look up any words that were unfamiliar to me very quickly.

This book was also my introduction to Progressive Covenantalism. This is a view that stands apart from dispensational theology and covenantal theology. Having previously spend time reading and studying these two view I found Progressive Covenantalism convincing but would like to read more literature on it. My mind was also changed on the existence of the Adamic/creation covenant by the many evidences presented and then ultimately Hosea 6:7.

I also very much valued the author’s engagement with current issues, cultural and philosophical, facing Christianity and world. This is one thing that I think really separates this work from previous Systematic Theology texts that I have engaged with.

[Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wellum, with this first volume of his two volume work, working from a baptist, evangelical and broadly Reformed understanding, writes with clarity, conviction and attentiveness to the subjects covered in this book, which are (1) prolegomena, (2) doctrine of God; (3) the Trinity; and (4) God's acts of creation and providence. Regarding (1), it is much more than a philosophical foundation for systematic theology, it is a strong articulation of the nature and purpose of Scripture and the biblical-theological story line, which, for Wellum, is 'kingdom through covenant,' as he is one of the most well-known proponents of what progressive covenantalism, which is basically a baptist riff of and departure from traditional covenant theology. Though all of the book is good, I would say the first section is is the one that stands out the most and is the one where we get a since of Wellum's unique contribution to this, if I may, oversaturated field of study. I look forward to reading the next volume upon its release.

[Spencer R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read my longer review at SpoiledMilks 12.9.24.

Stephen Wellum’s Systematic Theology, Volume 1 stands out as a Baptist systematic theology rooted in the progressive covenantal framework. Wellum combines rigorous biblical exegesis, historical theology, and a clear method to offer a theologically rich, accessible introduction. The book emphasizes Scripture’s unfolding covenantal storyline and the triune God as the foundation for theology. Wellum carefully explains key doctrines like revelation, God’s nature, and biblical interpretation, offering a fresh approach compared to other Baptist theologies like Grudem’s. Though lengthy, the work rewards patient readers with deep insights and practical application. It promises a second volume that will complete the theological arc, making it a highly anticipated contribution to contemporary evangelical theology.

This book came free from the publisher for an honest review.

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Wellum lays a very thorough foundation against today’s cultural tide that claims no absolute truth, showing its futility. Upon this foundation, he shows why systematic theology is important and necessary for us to think rightly about God and ultimately “think God’s thoughts after him.”

A great deal of time is spent demonstrating his flow of thought that leads to the theological conclusions that he makes in this volume. Though not simplistic, his writing style would be easy for someone who has an aptitude for theology to follow.

My understanding is that this is the first systematic theology from the perspective of Progressive Covenantalism (PC). This is noteworthy as Wellum is the biggest known proponent of this view. This volume (along with the subsequent one) will serve to be valuable and significant in bringing the PC perspective to the church.

[Eric Larson · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are two things that I am appreciating about Stephen Wellum’s systematic theology. First is the clarity of his writing. We often speak in my church that the job of a preacher is to make complicated things simple. Wellum has accomplished this without sacrificing either rigor or thoroughness. I have been impressed with the breadth of his coverage and the depth as well all without losing the reader along the way.

In addition the book has been a joy to read. This is no mere catalog or encyclopedia of theological topics and definitions. It is a treatise on the nature of God and the salvation that he has wrought that can make the heart sing and the enable the Christian know and follow God more closely.

Highly recommended.

[Donovan Moritz · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most clear, robust, and faithful theological reads I’ve engaged with. Wellum’s articulation of deep theological discourse considers historical theology and maintains relevance to contemporary engagement, while staying grounded in the Scriptures as our primary authority. Wellum also offers a much-needed systematic theology volume that is specifically Baptist through his articulation of baptistic ecclesiological and eschatological distinctives as well as further defending progressive covenantalism. Truly an engaging read from beginning to end that I would recommend to a new believer or a seasoned veteran of the faith alike. Wellum’s systematic is a volume I will return to often and I eagerly awaited volume 2!

[Robert Kane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for Wellum's Systematic Theology since I was a student of his at SBTS, and the wait was certainly worth it! If you're looking for a biblical, Trinitarian, reformed, baptistic, presuppositional, and historical ST then you'll want this resource in your library.

He does an excellent job of rooting his work in the Scriptures, while also not falling into the trap of an unhealthy form of biblicism.

His work on the covenants (Progressive Covenantalism) is particularly helpful, and thankfully, he walks through some of the similarities as well as differences between competing views (1689F, Westminster, and Dispensationalism).

Run, don't walk, to get a copy!

[Joseph Ghali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trinitarian, Reformed, Ecclesiastical, Progressive Covenantal, Baptist Systematic Theology.
A Must Read!

As an admirer of the Doctrine of the Trinity, I can say how this gigantic resource is Trinity-centered, and As an alumnus of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, The Lord taught me a lot through my dear professor, Dr Stephen J. Wellum, I learned that the text is the thing! (Sola Scriptura), Systematic theology is built upon Biblical theology, Our Ecclesiology must be formed by Scriptures and built upon Christology ( Christ Alone ).

If you think you have read enough of Systematic theology, this book will change your mind!