Things Unseen: A Systematic Introduction to the Christian Faith and Reformed Theology

by J. Gresham Machen, Timothy J. Keller (Introduction), Sinclair B. Ferguson (Foreword)

Things Unseen is both an accessible systematic theology, and a masterclass in evangelistic apologetics. Introduced by Timothy J. Keller, Foreword by Sinclair B. Ferguson, Historical Preface by Stephen J. Nichols, Afterword by Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. On a Sunday afternoon in 1935, J. Gresham Machen stepped into a broadcast booth at WIP Radio in Philadelphia and began something no one had tried before: teaching Reformed theology over the radio. In the vein of C.S. Lewis s landmark Mere Christianity talks, Machen s addresses are a crystal-clear articulation of the basics of the Christian faith, unfolding into an exceptional and persuasive explanation of Reformed theology.

Genres: Theology, Christianity, Christian, Nonfiction

486 pages, Hardcover

Published December 10, 2020

About the author

John Gresham Machen was an influential American Presbyterian theologian in the early 20th century. He was the Professor of New Testament at Princeton Seminary between 1915 and 1929, and led a conservative revolt against modernist theology at Princeton and formed Westminster Seminary as a more orthodox alternative. This split was irreconcilable, and Machen led others to form the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.

Reviews

[Bob O'Bannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Machen was a first-rate scholar who could go toe to toe with the most formidable liberal thinkers, but this book shows that he was also able to distill the basics of robust Christian doctrine to a digestible level. “Things Unseen” is a compendium of radio addresses he gave in 1935 and 1936 on WIP radio in Philadelphia. In the first part of the book, he gives a reasoned defense for the Christian faith, and in the second part he seeks to persuade Christians to embrace reformed theology, even fearlessly including three different installments on the topic of predestination. But again, all in very clear and understandable language. I like to say that Machen writes and reasons somewhat like C.S. Lewis if Lewis were a committed reformed Presbyterian.

The subtitle of the book gives the impression that this is a systematic theology, but the word “introduction” is key. The topics covered focus mostly on the authority of the Bible, the deity of Jesus, God’s decrees, creation, sin, and the atonement. Other topics normally included in a systematic theology (ecclesiology, eschatology) are not included here, and the reason is because Machen died before finishing the project. It’s kind of sad to read his comments about the Christmas season and his plans for the next year (p.422), when one finds out that he passed away on New Year’s Day of that holiday season.

Machen was the kind of theologian not greatly appreciated in a wishy washy day like ours — he was doctrinal, polemical, fully orthodox and fully Calvinist (“We regard it as surprising that any are lost; the Bible regards it as surprising that any are saved.” (p.180). Nonetheless, Machen the great scholar clearly had an evangelist’s heart as he often concluded these addresses with a simple and direct call to faith in Christ. “Will you hear him, my friends? Will you hear him this afternoon when he offers himself to you as the savior of your soul?” (p.382). It is difficult not to be persuaded after reading these thoughtful, always relevant, gospel-centered addresses.

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

How did J. Gresham Machen see God? Things Unseen, by J. Gresham Machen, is a classic and compelling systematic introduction to the Christian Faith and reformed theology.

A Timeless Treasure

Originally given as a series of talks over local Philadelphia radio airwaves to promote the Westminster Theological Seminary, this book is now a timeless treasure. Machen speaks in a conversational tone, but he does not let up on clarity or conviction.

The chapters are only several pages long, and they read quickly. You can use them during your devotions or as leisure reading. They are simple enough for a laymen, but remain rich and rewarding for those who are mature in the faith. Machen speaks more like a friend than a professor, with wit and winsomeness throughout.

Miracles and Difficult Doctrines

I was most interested to see how Machen taught about miracles. He says that “the Bible plainly records the occurrence of acts of God which are not natural but supernatural.” He goes on to say that there are two kinds of supernatural events: some are in the external world while others are within the hidden realm of the soul. With this definition, he says that miracles in the external world have ceased, while those in the soul are wrought every day. Machen offers no apologies, and he is bold with Biblical proof.

I was most impressed to see that Machen did not shy away from difficult doctrines. He speaks of natural and supernatural revelation. He points us to God’s Providence. And he teaches predestination and election. He is clearly logical, and takes his time to answer objections.

Courage, Clarity, and Care

The book ends by examining the active obedience of Christ and the Bible’s view of the atonement. I was left with the impression of a man who not only knew God’s Word, but loved the Author behind it. He loved enough to communicate it with courage, clarity, and care.

The self-help liberalism that was taking hold would be combated. With World War I and the Great Depression in the background, Machen knew what was most important. He leaves a legacy of faithfulness and forwardness in advancing the Good News of Jesus Christ.

I received a media copy of Things Unseen and this is my honest review.

[Mitchell Dixon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before C.S. Lewis gave his famous speeches during WWII, which later became Mere Christianity, J. Gresham Machen gave this series of "little talks" to the listening world of Philadelphia. This reprinting of those talks is an amazing exposition of what is so good about Machen: clear and biblical teaching. The subtitle accurately portrays what this book is about. It does not read like a traditional Systematic Theology since these were intended to be read aloud over the radio, yet they pack a punch. With a forward, preface, introduction, and afterward all by different scholars, it is hard to emphasize its importance and the man who spoke it.

[Josiah Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently finished leading a group of guys through this book and it was a lot of fun. This book is a collection of radio addresses from Machen back in the day. The chapters are short and compressed, easy to work through and easy to understand. Machen goes through what a typical Systematic Theology book would have in it, and breaks the subject down into a truly basic level. It is very similar to Packer's Concise Theology, but where Packer gives like 1-2 pages per subject, Machen gives 7-8 pages per subject. I made a short and basic study guide for this book that I believe helped us all retain and understand the subject matter and can make it available for anyone else who wants to work through this book. Just message me here.

[Justin Genus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things Unseen is unlike any book I have read. Part systematic theology, part apologetics, and part evangelistic appeal, this work is truly timeless in quality.

As Machen unfolds his understanding of Christian doctrine in 50 lectures, you will find yourself challenged and comforted by the teachings he presents.

Of particular value is Machen’s interaction with views that differ from his own. Machen is a master of honestly presenting his opposition’s view, then soundly explaining its faults. Because Machen presupposes the truth of the Bible as he argues, he rarely falls into the trap of purely philosophical argumentation. Instead, he crystalizes the unbelief that undergirds false teachings and ideas he addresses. As a result, his arguments are just as effective as they were when initially wrote them.

The lecture format is an added bonus. Each chapter is only about 10 pages long. While this leaves some teachings less than fully explained, Machen at least provides a biblical foundation for the reader to explore further. Machen also shamlessly proclaims the gospel in such a way that your heart will be lifted, even as you learn deeper systematic truths.

If you are looking for an advanced introduction to the Christian faith, I highly recommend Machen’s work. There is much to be caught and taught from this magnificent work.

[Andy Schreiber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished it. I basically read about a chapter per day, using it as a kind of devotional reading. It was really good, which is no surprise, having been written by Machen. It is very accessible for the most part. Amazing that it was originally written for broadcast and intended for a general audience.

It is a terrific "systematic introduction to the Christian faith and the Reformed tradition" (as the subtitle puts it. He quotes the Westminster Shorter Catechism liberally (pun!) throughout, which I appreciated very much.

It is remarkable to see a book written by such a top-notch theologian that is aimed at a general/lay audience. It is even, in some ways, intended to be read (and heard, at least originally) by unbelievers. There is a decidedly evangelistic tone throughout.

I just wish it were longer, and that he could have lived to complete the work. (The final chapters are on the priesthood and atonement of Christ.) But if you are looking for an accessible introduction to the Reformed faith, I would highly recommend this volume to you.

[Greg Helms · Rating 5 out of 5]

Took me a bit of plodding. Loved this book. Love the broadcaster’s (author’s) heart and his personal notes and care for the listeners (now readers). There are sentences I disagreed with, but the heart and gospel-drive and Bible-love of this work will aid you and encourage your soul if you take the time to listen or read.

Highly commend!

#letmeintroduceyou
#JESUSisLORD

[Brian Frick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Things Unseen is a collection of 50 radio addresses spanning 1934-1936 by J. Gresham Machen. During these radio addresses he sought to put forth for a general audience a systematic introduction to the Christian Faith and Reformed theology. I can confidently say he succeeds in that goal. He communicates deep and nuanced theological topics in every day language that an average person can understand.

Sadly he passed away less than two weeks after his last radio address. Among his final words were “I’m so thankful for the active obedience of Christ; no hope without it.”

[Liam]

Listening to some of the audio sample chapters on the podcast of the same name. Hoping this one releases as an audiobook eventually.

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

J. Gresham Machen was an amazing man of faith, learning, and piety. He deserves honor for his passionate and devastating critique of liberal Christianity in "Christianity & Liberalism" as being completely different from Biblical Christianity, and not merely another form of it. But this new release from Westminster Seminary Press shows that he was not only a warrior for truth, but he also had a passion for evangelism and discipleship. This systematic theology is really a collection of his Sunday afternoon radio transcripts designed to reach a wider audience with the truths and doctrines of Christianity. Tim Keller says in the introduction that he patterns much of his apologetic preaching after Machen's methods in these talks. It was amazing to see that these talks from the late 1930's still seem contemporary, relevant and amazingly clear. The only negative to these is that they leave you wanting more, especially since in the final 'talk', he says what his next message will be in the coming year. Unfortunately, that talk, on the last Sunday of 1936, would be his last, as he would die on New Year's Day, 1937. Even though he is now gone, yet he still speaks! This is definitely worth your time to read, for it's clarity, faithfulness, and thoughtfulness. It really communicates the essence of the Christian faith in a very helpful and understandable way, and I am thankful for Westminster Seminary Press for making all of these talks available to a wide audience!

[Timothy Crockett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good friend recommended this book to me. I thoroughly enjoyed it; anything by Machen is good. Two other books I would recommend are The Virgin Birth and Christianity and Liberalism. They are excellent books in their own right.

This book is based on a series of lessons/essays on key doctrines of the faith. These talks were given on the radio. Keeping in mind this was not typical at the time with liberal (Fosdick) and the Pentecostals having a lot of influence through the radio ministry it was a good way for him to reach a wider Christian audience including those within the West Minster Theological Seminary persuasion. These lectures were given in Philadelphia

Things Unseen is a journey through certain areas of systematic theology covering such areas as, how God may be known, inspiration, the Bible's authority in our lives, the Deity, Resurrection, and many others. He gets into some of the more complicated or deep subjects like predestination, the decrees of God, the doctrine of the atonement, active obedience to Christ, and Christ as Prophet Priest and King.

The book is just over 400 pages and flows smoothly. He provides plenty of insight into each area and provides a good defense as well. Would I recommend this book - YES!!!

[Jennifer O. · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars (because I rarely give 5 to anyone, even Machen lol). Well worth the read. Broken up into 5-7 page chapters makes this very approachable for a reflective read. If you have read his Christian View of Man, be aware that it is reprinted in this volume (though it's always good to re-read). I have often wished there were extant audio files of Machen speaking, but reading this, you can hear a lot of his figures of speech and understand more about the man and his strong convictions. A champion and an amazing warrior of the faith.

[Edward Meshell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this read! It’s J Gresham Machen’s radio addresses from the 30’s put in print. It is explaining the Christian faith and then specifically reformed theology in the short talks. It’s kinda sad that he never got to finish the talks due to his death. The book design is also absolutely beautiful! Anyways, I highly recommend this book.

[Caleb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply put, this is Machen at his best. An excellent introduction to systematic theology, for the lay Christian who wants to know what they believe.

[Marc Scaturro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Machen writes with such timeless Gospel clarity that he is always relevant. This book is everything I was hoping the Wonderful Works of God would be. The chapters are pithy but only about 7-10 pages in length and make for great, substantive daily theological reading. I only lament that the book was left unfinished due to Machen’s unexpected death. This was such a worthwhile project. Probably my favorite theological book for what it is...

[Asher Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Machen is so, so good. It's a shame he died before the completion of this lecture series - right in the middle of a fabulous treatment of the atonement.

While the approach and focus of the books are somewhat different, comparisons to Mere Christianity are inevitable, widespread, and merited. For what it is worth, I prefer this.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

About 50 of Machen's radio broadcasts explaining and defending the gospel and the reformed faith. Like C. S. Lewis's Mere Christianity but more related to the gospel and theology. Very accessible. These addresses have been published separately through the years but now have been gathered into one volume. Very recommended.

[Chase Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very concise introduction of Systematic Theology that is super easy to read and at times can feel like Machen is preaching to you. Highly recommend for someone who wants to learn about Systematic Theology, but is afraid of a larger book like Wayne Grudem’s book on Systematic Theology.

[Eric Yap · Rating 4 out of 5]

A collection of 50 short radio addresses by Machen and known to be one of the earliest evangelical speakers to use the radio platform. Machen intended these radio addresses to be a very systematic but succinct introduction to the reformed faith, so the series of addresses are arranged like a systematic theology, opening with the various doctrines of Scriptures, then to the Triune God and the divinity of Christ in the first section; the various doctrines of predestination and providence, creation, the nature and fall of men in section two; and finally in the third section the various mediatory offices of Christ in His work of atonement. Machen hinted at his intention to go beyond these 50 addresses, but he died before he could complete them.

Like various towering reformed theologians before and after him, Machen studied under the prevailing scholars of liberal Christianity and therefore "learned from the horse's mouth," and hence like his predecessors (such as Bavinck) much of his writings (Christianity and Liberalism) were polemics against the liberalism that prevailed in his day. And against liberalism Machen was a fitting defender of the reformed faith, evident as this series of radio delivery were concise, eloquent, and pastoral. Modern readers might feel a little bit distanced from the liberalism that Machen was combatting, as Machen's influence is clearly felt in these waning tides of "progressive Christianity" though Machen does a fair job in describing them succinctly, so as to warn the faithful against erroneous views that might have seeped into our pews.

At the same time, this collection is also a really good and concise introduction to various loci of the reformed faith (or a generic introduction to Christian doctrines, as most loci of theology like Scripture and the Triune God are affirmed by ecumenical and historic Christianity), and each radio address is permeated with the gospel as well, demonstrating the heritage of the Puritan's "doctrinal preaching." That is, every instance of preaching is to teach doctrine, and every instance of doctrinal teaching is to preach the gospel.

"For that end, the glory of God, though not for the ends that we might have cherished, this universe is the best universe that could possibly have been created. To that end, those starry heavens of which Walter Lippmann speaks contribute to their part. When we contemplate their vastness, we are impressed indeed with our own insignificance. We can go with Walter Lippmann so far. but unlike Mr. Lippmann, we do not stop there. To us the stars have no merely negative message; they do not merely tell us what we are not; rather, they also tell us what God is: "The spacious firmament on high, With all the blue ethereal sky, And spangled heavens, a shining frame, Their great Original proclaim."

Or, in the words of Holy Scriptures, of which that hymn of Joseph Addison is after all but a feeble exposition, "the heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork" (Ps 19:1). The end for which the universe was made is not, indeed, our enjoyment. But that does not mean that we know nothing about what the end is. The end, the Bible tells us, is the glory of God. And that end the universe attains in God's own way.

But are those starry heavens, is that vast fabric of nature, really indifferent to our fate? The Bible has something to say about that also. "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Rom 8:28). But those who can take to themselves the comfort of that text are not those who regard themselves, in childish fashion, as the end for which the creation exists; but they are those who have been enabled to find their true blessedness and the true purpose of all the world in singing the Creator's praise."

[Hobart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S THINGS UNSEEN ABOUT?
Starting in 1934 and continuing until his death in 1937 (although he had plans to keep it going for at least another two years), J. Gresham Machen delivered a series of radio addresses on WIP in Philadelphia. The addresses focused on the Christian doctrine of the Bible and what the Bible tells us about God, the Christian view of Man, and then doctrines of salvation (this was cut off before he completed it).

While not technically a Systematic Theology, the outline matches how many/most Systematics cover the topics.

These addresses had been collected and published in collections in previous decades, but now, they're published in one attractive (and seemingly durable) volume.

SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THINGS UNSEEN?
With a couple of weekends off for travel or sickness, I read a chapter a week this last year, and it was a great practice. The addresses took thirty minutes or so a week when delivered, so they take only a few minutes to read. But minutes that serve as a wonderful reminder of the basics of Christian Doctrine.

In the 1930s, the vogue was to downplay Reformed distinctives, as well as a whole-hearted belief in a supernatural Christianity. Machen flies in the face of that and was bold in his teaching on both fronts. He's succinct, pastoral, accessible, and even witty. These are not talks for scholars, or dumbed-down--they're straightforward presentations of the topics for everyone.

Were this a smaller collection, I might be able to get deeper about some of the topics--but there's just too much to try to talk about. But it's all great--this has been one of the most rewarding books I've read in a few years. Even when Machen is merely restating what generations before him taught, there's a freshness to his presentations that really are appealing.

I can't recommend this enough.

[Wade · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Doctrine is prior to life."

Much like Machen's Christianity and Liberalism, I was repeatedly amazed at how relevant Machen's words in Things Unseen (written during The Great Depression) are today. Then, in the Afterword, Richard Gaffin recalled a favorite phrase Machens would use in the classroom: "Doctrine is prior to life." Get that the other way around and every unbiblical theology, anthropology, cosmology, etc. etc. will flow, but get that correct and it totally makes sense that Machen's words from 100 years ago hit a direct bullseye today.

This is a terrific work. Not a traditional systematic, but a collection of radio addresses (meant for the church as well as skeptics).

Devotional. Practical. Worshipful.

[Wayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've slowly read this series of Machen's radio talks over the past four years and--fitting, given Machen's death on January 1, 1937--finally finished them on New Years Eve 2024.

Though the addresses were suddenly cut short by Machen's death in 1937, the talks that aired are an example of theological clarity and a model of apologetic concern. The talks contained in "Things Unseen" are like a Reformed version of Mere Christianity. This would be worth reading for church members who are looking to grow in theological understanding or for pastors/teachers who are looking to learn to express biblical convictions with clarity and elegant simplicity.

[Jeremy Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is brilliant. Machen simultaneously catechises believers, evangelizes unbelievers, and answers modernist objections to Biblical Christianity. Amazingly, he is able to do this at an accessible level. I highly recommend this book, but don't buy it from Amazon. It costs twice as much as Reformation Heritage Books.

https://heritagebooks.org/products/th...

[David Clouse · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very basic book in one way and can be profound in others. It is a great starter, or close to starter, book for people wanting to know the core doctrines of their faith and specifically the reformed beliefs. Some chapters were excellent or filled with really great content. Others just felt a bit basic or maybe a bit too wordy/philosophical at times. Anyways, a nice little book to have in my collection that ill probably look back on over the years for quotes and ideas.

[Brandon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Machen's radio talks on the doctrines of the Christian faith. It's like a Reformed equivalent to Lewis's radio talks that became Mere Christianity.

Wonderfully presented. The real shame is that Machen died before finishing these. I would've loved to see the entire project finished, as it is he only made it partially through Christology.

[Mark Seeley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy reading Machen. He is lucid, courageous, uncompromising and Biblical. These addresses are a delight to read and ponder. Machen understood the times in which he lived, yet his message remains relevant today because it is so centered upon the historic faith and the truth of the gospel.

To have all his radio addresses bound in an attractive one volume hardbound book is a treasure.

[Peter Kiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always love reading Machen. He is writing (or shall I say speaking) for the laymen here, and yet he still gives rich Biblical truth with passion. While I got a little bored at times, I think this would be a wonderful introduction systematic theology for someone who might be intimidated by something larger and more dense.

[J.T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. As a work of literature, one tires of the style of the radio address by page 400+. As a work of systematic polemics, it shines in approaching the critiques of Machen's day. A 4 in theology, a 3 in pleasure to read...

[Chris Rohde · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent compilation of a series of radio addresses given by J.Gresham Machen on the fundamentals of the Christian faith. I would highly recommend as a post-Mere Christianity or Reason for God book for new or young believers.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books like these can be hard to get through but they’re worth every effort. As modern western Christians, false ideologies can seep into our understanding of the gospel without us even noticing it. The Holy Spirit uses books like these to “keep us in the love of God.” (Jude 21). Worth the read!