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The Trinity and the Bible: On Theological Interpretation
Seeing the Trinity in Scripture
Christians affirm and worship a triune God. But how should this affect our reading of the Bible? In The Trinity and the Bible, Scott R. Swain asserts that not only does the Bible reveal the Trinity, but the Trinity illuminates our reading of the Bible. Swain considers proper interpretive method and applies a Trinitarian framework to three exegetical studies. Explorations of three genres of New Testament literature display the profits of theological A final chapter provides seven axioms for trinitian interpretation of the Bible. Through loving attention to the Scriptures, one can understand and marvel at the singular identity and activity of the triune God.
Christians affirm and worship a triune God. But how should this affect our reading of the Bible? In The Trinity and the Bible, Scott R. Swain asserts that not only does the Bible reveal the Trinity, but the Trinity illuminates our reading of the Bible. Swain considers proper interpretive method and applies a Trinitarian framework to three exegetical studies. Explorations of three genres of New Testament literature display the profits of theological A final chapter provides seven axioms for trinitian interpretation of the Bible. Through loving attention to the Scriptures, one can understand and marvel at the singular identity and activity of the triune God.
131 pages, Hardcover
Published September 29, 2021
18 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
About the author
Scott R. Swain
35 books44 followersDr. Scott R. Swain is President and James Woodrow Hassell Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida. Dr. Swain has served on the RTS faculty since 2006, having previously taught at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas.
His main research interests include the doctrine of God, theological interpretation of Scripture, and modern Protestant theology, and he has published a number of books and essays on these topics. With Dr. Michael Allen, he serves as general editor of two series: Zondervan Academic’s New Studies in Dogmatics and T & T Clark’s International Theological Commentary.
Dr. Swain is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church in America. He and his wife, Leigh, have four children.
His main research interests include the doctrine of God, theological interpretation of Scripture, and modern Protestant theology, and he has published a number of books and essays on these topics. With Dr. Michael Allen, he serves as general editor of two series: Zondervan Academic’s New Studies in Dogmatics and T & T Clark’s International Theological Commentary.
Dr. Swain is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church in America. He and his wife, Leigh, have four children.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 24, 2021
A tour-de-force combination of systematics and biblical studies.
June 22, 2022
Phenomenal manifesto on the relationship between the Trinity and the scriptures. All those who teach in God’s church should read this.
November 2, 2021
This short but substantial collection of articles and lectures weaves together three weighty subjects: the trinity, the Bible, and theological interpretation of Scripture. While these three form a common thread throughout, certain chapters focus on biblical exposition and the trinity (chapters 4, 5, and 6 which focus on Mark 12:35-37, Galatians 4:4-7, and Revelation 4-5 respectively), while others focus on the trinity and the interpretation of Scripture (chapters, 1, 2, and 7 titled or subtitled “The Trinity and Biblical Interpretation,” “The Bible and the Trinity in Recent Thought,” and “On the Trinity, the Bible, and Theological Interpretation” respectively). There is even a chapter (3) on B. B. Warfield that exposes some rather troubling conclusions Warfield reached that can be traced, according to Swain, back to a “trajectory in Calvinian Trinitariansim,” (42). Perhaps that is why in the recent recovery of classic trinitarian theology Warfield and even Calvin have not been featured prominently.
Before entering those troubled waters, Swain identifies where this volume fits among the current stream of works on the trinity. He says, “The recovery of the Trinity as the subject matter of exegetical attention is downstream from an earlier recovery of the Trinity as the subject matter of dogmatic attention,” (1). It was the recovery of trinitarian doctrine, in other words, that led to the recovery of trinitarian exegesis and hence to a book like this one. This work is not so much a dogmatic presentation of the doctrine of the trinity as it is an exploration of the revelation of the trinity in Scripture. But the two are not as separate as some might assume. Chapter 2, which was perhaps my favorite, makes this key and perhaps startling claim: “What we have in the Bible is well-formed Trinitarian discourse: primary, normative, fluent. . . . The Trinitarian theology of the church’s creeds, proclamation, and liturgy, therefore, is not a refinement of or an improvement on God’s self-naming in Scripture. It is rather the church’s attempt, in prayerful thought and speech, to follow the divine Word as it leads us out of the misery of idolatry into the happiness that lies before us in the vision of the Triune God,” (15-16).
The chapters vary, but they remain cohesive despite being prepared separately “over the course of the past decade” (3). The upshot is access to a decade of reflections on the trinity in Scripture is now available from someone who has already proven himself to be a winsome and articulate advocate of classic trinitarianism.
Finally, I must say a word about the production of the book. The design, layout, and overall aesthetic quality of the book is wonderful. I say this repeatedly about Lexham’s books because they consistently impress me.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher but was not required to give a positive review.
Before entering those troubled waters, Swain identifies where this volume fits among the current stream of works on the trinity. He says, “The recovery of the Trinity as the subject matter of exegetical attention is downstream from an earlier recovery of the Trinity as the subject matter of dogmatic attention,” (1). It was the recovery of trinitarian doctrine, in other words, that led to the recovery of trinitarian exegesis and hence to a book like this one. This work is not so much a dogmatic presentation of the doctrine of the trinity as it is an exploration of the revelation of the trinity in Scripture. But the two are not as separate as some might assume. Chapter 2, which was perhaps my favorite, makes this key and perhaps startling claim: “What we have in the Bible is well-formed Trinitarian discourse: primary, normative, fluent. . . . The Trinitarian theology of the church’s creeds, proclamation, and liturgy, therefore, is not a refinement of or an improvement on God’s self-naming in Scripture. It is rather the church’s attempt, in prayerful thought and speech, to follow the divine Word as it leads us out of the misery of idolatry into the happiness that lies before us in the vision of the Triune God,” (15-16).
The chapters vary, but they remain cohesive despite being prepared separately “over the course of the past decade” (3). The upshot is access to a decade of reflections on the trinity in Scripture is now available from someone who has already proven himself to be a winsome and articulate advocate of classic trinitarianism.
Finally, I must say a word about the production of the book. The design, layout, and overall aesthetic quality of the book is wonderful. I say this repeatedly about Lexham’s books because they consistently impress me.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher but was not required to give a positive review.
January 24, 2022
If you have delved into the fascinating study of the Trinity, you likely have already encountered the name Scott Swain. There are probably 4 or 5 writers who have made the greatest impact in this subject that begs for more care among Christians and Swain is unquestionably one of them. This latest title of his is not his greatest contribution on the Trinity, but it is one of those books that shows more digging and a passion to help people practically put an understanding of the Trinity to use when they open the Bible anywhere to do exegesis.
Without doubt, that is a valuable concept to entertain. In fact, even after studying the Bible for many years, when you finally do a detailed study of the Trinity, you become almost surprised at how many passages contain a Trinitarian focus. Only our Triune God knows why the Bible is designed to have the Trinity sprinkled everywhere and yet have few passages that serve as great proof texts on the subject.
When you come to this book itself, you will appreciate the big picture for sure; and yet as with any written attempt at exegesis, you might disagree at points. Occasionally, I disagreed with Swain but I was a happy traveling companion for the journey he took we readers on. Maybe you ask here: isn’t this just a collection of essays? It is. Whether the author was lucky or brilliant I can’t say, but the fragments did make a whole.
Don’t skip chapter 1 even though it is really just the preface. Chapter 2 is the best chapter and addresses profound concepts involving the Trinity. Chapter 3 on Warfield’s view of the Trinity is not merely a recap of history, but a case study on exegesis and the Trinity. The final three chapters take the Trinity into the spadework of exegesis in Mark 12:35-37, Galatians 4:4-7, and Revelation 4-5 respectively.
I enjoyed this book thoroughly as I have done much study on the Trinity recently. To be sure, this book is not a first choice when you begin a study of the Trinity, but it is a quality resource as you get farther into it. I’m glad to have to have it!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Without doubt, that is a valuable concept to entertain. In fact, even after studying the Bible for many years, when you finally do a detailed study of the Trinity, you become almost surprised at how many passages contain a Trinitarian focus. Only our Triune God knows why the Bible is designed to have the Trinity sprinkled everywhere and yet have few passages that serve as great proof texts on the subject.
When you come to this book itself, you will appreciate the big picture for sure; and yet as with any written attempt at exegesis, you might disagree at points. Occasionally, I disagreed with Swain but I was a happy traveling companion for the journey he took we readers on. Maybe you ask here: isn’t this just a collection of essays? It is. Whether the author was lucky or brilliant I can’t say, but the fragments did make a whole.
Don’t skip chapter 1 even though it is really just the preface. Chapter 2 is the best chapter and addresses profound concepts involving the Trinity. Chapter 3 on Warfield’s view of the Trinity is not merely a recap of history, but a case study on exegesis and the Trinity. The final three chapters take the Trinity into the spadework of exegesis in Mark 12:35-37, Galatians 4:4-7, and Revelation 4-5 respectively.
I enjoyed this book thoroughly as I have done much study on the Trinity recently. To be sure, this book is not a first choice when you begin a study of the Trinity, but it is a quality resource as you get farther into it. I’m glad to have to have it!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Read
February 4, 2025No rating, just because I wasn’t smart enough to understand the vast majority of this book. What I did understand was on point though!
August 3, 2022
This is an example of what theological interpretation of scripture is.
If you interested in this academic conversation this is a “the proof is in the pudding” book.
Thinking about how the Trinity is all over the Bible brought me to worship numerous times. I’d highly recommend this book if you’re interested in TIS.
If you interested in this academic conversation this is a “the proof is in the pudding” book.
Thinking about how the Trinity is all over the Bible brought me to worship numerous times. I’d highly recommend this book if you’re interested in TIS.
January 14, 2022
The 7 Axioms
On the Trinity, the Bible and Theological Interpretation
1. Certain material and social conditions are vital to, but not ultimately sufficient for, theological interpretation of scripture.
2. The Trinity’s knowledge of the Trinity is the ontological foundation of our knowledge of the Trinity.
3. The Trinity reveals the Trinity by the Trinity; this is the epistemological foundation of our knowledge of the Trinity.
4. The Trinity reveals the Trinity by the Trinity in an economy which is first mediate, in the state of pilgrims, then immediate, in the state of the blessed.
5. Revelation of the Trinity by the Trinity in the state of grace presupposes and illumines vestiges of of the Trinity in the state of nature.
6. The mediate revelation of the Trinity by the Trinity in the state of grace comes in the twofold embassy of the prophetic and apostolic revelation in Holy Scripture.
7. The immediate revelation of the Trinity by the Trinity in the state of glory the supreme good and final end of theological interpretation of Scripture.
On the Trinity, the Bible and Theological Interpretation
1. Certain material and social conditions are vital to, but not ultimately sufficient for, theological interpretation of scripture.
2. The Trinity’s knowledge of the Trinity is the ontological foundation of our knowledge of the Trinity.
3. The Trinity reveals the Trinity by the Trinity; this is the epistemological foundation of our knowledge of the Trinity.
4. The Trinity reveals the Trinity by the Trinity in an economy which is first mediate, in the state of pilgrims, then immediate, in the state of the blessed.
5. Revelation of the Trinity by the Trinity in the state of grace presupposes and illumines vestiges of of the Trinity in the state of nature.
6. The mediate revelation of the Trinity by the Trinity in the state of grace comes in the twofold embassy of the prophetic and apostolic revelation in Holy Scripture.
7. The immediate revelation of the Trinity by the Trinity in the state of glory the supreme good and final end of theological interpretation of Scripture.
December 31, 2022
This book is a collection of some of Swain’s previously published articles on the Trinity, with a new introductory chapter and a new concluding chapter (7 axioms). As Kevin Vanhoozer’s doctoral student, Swain engages in “theological interpretation,” that is, doing exegesis from a starting point of embracing traditional creedal Trinitarian theology. I really appreciated chapter 3, where he critiques Warfield’s “principled non-affirmation” of the doctrine of eternal generation in his famous “Trinity” article. The exegetical chapters (chapters 4-6, on Mark 12:35-37, Galatians 4:4-7 and Revelation 4-5) were excellent and showed how theological interpretation can be done.
November 2, 2021
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S THE TRINITY AND THE BIBLE ABOUT?
I'm going to keep this short, because I'm sure that if I try to really get into the material, I'm only going to show how ill-equipped I am to discuss it in a meaningful fashion.
Rather than one overarching topic, this is a collection of papers that seek to show both how the Bible reveals the Trinity and how the Trinity shapes our reading of the Bible.
Swain describes the book in his introductory chapter:
The Table of Contents, to match up with Swain's description, is:
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE TRINITY AND THE BIBLE?
This is not an easy read, even at 131 pages, it took several hours for me to get through it (honestly, after reading the first chapter, I wondered if I should limit myself to one chapter a week).
But it was worth the effort, every bit of it. Like a lot of the more scholarly theological books I read, I was reminded frequently while reading that I'm not an academic and this is above my weight class. But it wasn't inaccessible, just difficult and required a little commitment.
But like the best academic theology, there were moments of the most doxological writing—or doxology-inspiring writing (or a mix). There are paragraphs and paragraphs that I wish I could commit to memory, so I could use them at the drop of my hat in conversation and in prayer.
The "Seven Axioms: On the Trinity, the Bible, and Theological Interpretation" (Chapter 7), in particular, are the kinds of things that everyone needs to learn and I think I'm going to read a few times over the next few weeks/months and really internalize.
I strongly recommend this to anyone who wants to solidify their understanding of the Trinity and wrestle with Scriptural texts, theology, and history for that.
---
Scriptural Trinitarianism is not unformed, inchoate Trinitarianism. As the self-revelation of the Triune God through his authorized and anointed prophets and apostles, scriptural Trinitarianism is the primary discourse of Trinitarian theology: normative, fluent, and eloquent. Ecclesiastical Trinitarianism, the Trinitarian theology of the churchs sermons, hymns, confessions, and creeds, is the secondary discourse of Trinitarian theology. Ecclesiastical Trinitarianism, at its best, is the attempt to represent the “grammar” of Scripture’s primary Trinitarian discourse in new settings and on new occasions, not to refine or develop what would otherwise be unrefined and undeveloped without it but to promote the church's greater fluency in reading Scripture's primary Trinitarian discourse and in responding to that discourse in its own eloquent expressions of prayer, proclamation, and praise of the Triune God.
WHAT'S THE TRINITY AND THE BIBLE ABOUT?
I'm going to keep this short, because I'm sure that if I try to really get into the material, I'm only going to show how ill-equipped I am to discuss it in a meaningful fashion.
Rather than one overarching topic, this is a collection of papers that seek to show both how the Bible reveals the Trinity and how the Trinity shapes our reading of the Bible.
Swain describes the book in his introductory chapter:
Some of [the chapters] began as formal academic lectures; all of them have been published previously in various books and journals, The first and second chapters address the broader hermeneutical framework of Trinitarian biblical exegesis as well as the reception of one particular instance of such exegesis in North American Reformed and evangelical theology. The final three chapters address different aspects of Trinitarian theology by means of exegetical attention to different forms of New Testament literature, including Gospel, Epistle, and apocalyptic.
The Table of Contents, to match up with Swain's description, is:
1. (Re)turning to the Subject: Trinity and Biblical Interpretation
2. The Bible and the Trinity in Recent Thought: Review, Analysis, and Constructive Proposal
3. B. B. Warfield and the Biblical Doctrine of the Trinity: A Historical Experiment
4. God’s Lordly Son: Mark 12:35–37 and Trinitarian Christology
5. Heirs through God: Galatians 4:4–7 and the Doctrine of the Trinity
6. To Him Who Sits on the Throne and to the Lamb: Hymning God’s Triune Name in Revelation 4–5
7. Seven Axioms: On the Trinity, the Bible, and Theological Interpretation
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE TRINITY AND THE BIBLE?
Theological interpretation of Scripture prepares us for the vision of the Triune God by cultivating our capacities for spiritual perception and by attuning our affections to the intelligible and adorable good that the Triune God is. But theological interpretation of Scripture is more than mere preparation for this happy vision. Like the Israelite spies who tasted the grapes of Eschol before entering the Promised Land, theological interpretation of Scripture enables us to participate in this happy vision in advance by helping us perceive traces of God's Triune glory in God's good creation and by serving faith's grasp of God's Triune glory in the mediate adumbrations and attestations of that glory in the prophetic and apostolic scriptures (2 Cor 4:6).
This is not an easy read, even at 131 pages, it took several hours for me to get through it (honestly, after reading the first chapter, I wondered if I should limit myself to one chapter a week).
But it was worth the effort, every bit of it. Like a lot of the more scholarly theological books I read, I was reminded frequently while reading that I'm not an academic and this is above my weight class. But it wasn't inaccessible, just difficult and required a little commitment.
But like the best academic theology, there were moments of the most doxological writing—or doxology-inspiring writing (or a mix). There are paragraphs and paragraphs that I wish I could commit to memory, so I could use them at the drop of my hat in conversation and in prayer.
The "Seven Axioms: On the Trinity, the Bible, and Theological Interpretation" (Chapter 7), in particular, are the kinds of things that everyone needs to learn and I think I'm going to read a few times over the next few weeks/months and really internalize.
I strongly recommend this to anyone who wants to solidify their understanding of the Trinity and wrestle with Scriptural texts, theology, and history for that.
May 4, 2022
A series of seven essays that explores the theological interpretation and reading through the retrieval of Trinitarian grammar and interpretative lens. These essays span across theological methods and precise exegesis of specific passages, and through them Swain demonstrates the work of an competent, faithful theologian and exegete by showing that, contrary to modernistic theology and critical biblicism, the theological methods, grammar, and interpretative lens, and specifically Trinitarian reading and grammar that we have inherited from our faithful forebears do not obstruct faithful and precise exegesis. Rather, our systematic theology and biblical exegesis, when done rightly and faithfully, consistently reinforce and strengthen each other. And this is especially so when Scripture is read together and in the context of the church/community of faith throughout history and that is indwelt by the one same Spirit of illumination (of whom we have inherited the Trinitarian confessions, dogmas, and theological methods of reading and interpretation) and also with sincere and humble hearts that know that we only come to know God and all His Trinitarian revelations by grace. Of which, the work of redemption, is Trinitarian revelation par excellence.
As these are a series of academic essays, there are not the most readable, but are relatively short in length. Theology avids and students would find it richly rewarding just to have our theological reading and interpretation, our Trinitarian grammar and instincts sharpen, and in turn fuel more faithful and fruitful exegesis of Scriptures, leading to an even richer devotional piety and worship of our Trice-Holy God. As one of my fav quote goes (Bobbie Jamieson): “If the proof of the pudding is in the eating, then the proof of the theology is in the reading.”
“To know and adore the blessed Trinity is not our possession by natural right. Here we are dealing with a knowledge that is natural only to God, a knowledge that is ours therefore only because God has freely “granted” us to know “the mystery of the kingdom of God" (Mark 4:11 KJV). In acquiring this knowledge, we are like the one in Matthew 13:44 who stumbles on a treasure hidden in a field. We did not mean to find it. Our possession of this treasure is not the conclusion to our skillful quest. Nevertheless, though the finding of this treasure does not result from our intelligent action, its finding does result in manifold forms of intelligent activity. The lucky day laborer of Matthew 13:44 becomes the skillful scribe and wise householder of Matthew 13:52. The gift of theological knowledge awakens and energizes the work of theological reason. This work of theological reason, like all regenerated energies, is in turn a work characterised by mortification and vivification. In terms of mortification: There is a selling of all that we have to lay hold of this hidden treasure — a kind of intellectual and affective divestment, an ascesis —that follows from our finding this gift. We do not know God. But, in God's kindness, we have come to know him. And therefore we forsake all that we think we know in order more fully to know him. In terms of vivification: There is a new manner of "mindfulness" that corresponds to the riches freely received. This new mindfulness is characterized by confidence, corresponding to the promise of divine assistance that accompanies our study: "Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything" (2 Tim 2:7 NASB). It is also characterised by a holy diligence, corresponding to the gravitas of our study's object and end. Moreover, as is the case with every labor carried out under the banner of the risen Christ (1 Cor 15:58), this work is characterized by joy: "I rejoice at your word like one who finds great spoil" (Ps 119:162).“
- Scott Swain
As these are a series of academic essays, there are not the most readable, but are relatively short in length. Theology avids and students would find it richly rewarding just to have our theological reading and interpretation, our Trinitarian grammar and instincts sharpen, and in turn fuel more faithful and fruitful exegesis of Scriptures, leading to an even richer devotional piety and worship of our Trice-Holy God. As one of my fav quote goes (Bobbie Jamieson): “If the proof of the pudding is in the eating, then the proof of the theology is in the reading.”
“To know and adore the blessed Trinity is not our possession by natural right. Here we are dealing with a knowledge that is natural only to God, a knowledge that is ours therefore only because God has freely “granted” us to know “the mystery of the kingdom of God" (Mark 4:11 KJV). In acquiring this knowledge, we are like the one in Matthew 13:44 who stumbles on a treasure hidden in a field. We did not mean to find it. Our possession of this treasure is not the conclusion to our skillful quest. Nevertheless, though the finding of this treasure does not result from our intelligent action, its finding does result in manifold forms of intelligent activity. The lucky day laborer of Matthew 13:44 becomes the skillful scribe and wise householder of Matthew 13:52. The gift of theological knowledge awakens and energizes the work of theological reason. This work of theological reason, like all regenerated energies, is in turn a work characterised by mortification and vivification. In terms of mortification: There is a selling of all that we have to lay hold of this hidden treasure — a kind of intellectual and affective divestment, an ascesis —that follows from our finding this gift. We do not know God. But, in God's kindness, we have come to know him. And therefore we forsake all that we think we know in order more fully to know him. In terms of vivification: There is a new manner of "mindfulness" that corresponds to the riches freely received. This new mindfulness is characterized by confidence, corresponding to the promise of divine assistance that accompanies our study: "Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything" (2 Tim 2:7 NASB). It is also characterised by a holy diligence, corresponding to the gravitas of our study's object and end. Moreover, as is the case with every labor carried out under the banner of the risen Christ (1 Cor 15:58), this work is characterized by joy: "I rejoice at your word like one who finds great spoil" (Ps 119:162).“
- Scott Swain
November 1, 2021
The Trinity and the Bible: On Theological Interpretation is a masterful work by a master at his craft. It does not take long at reading Scott R. Swain to realize that you are receiving the riches of deep reverent contemplation, worked over and internalized, and carefully presented with maturity and elegance. There are no wasted words with Swain, and reading these essays is therefore arresting; as if the clarity and force of his writing summons a kind of attention you did not think you were prepared to give (or even knew you had!). And the reward of giving Swain your careful attention is rich, doxological appreciation for the Trinity—the telos of our souls.
The Trinity and the Bible is a collection of five academic essays Swain has written on the Trinity and Scripture over the past decade (with the addition of one introductory essay and a concluding one which concisely lays out axioms on the Trinity, the Bible, and Theological Interpretation). In these essays, Swain wrestles with the question, “In what way is the doctrine of the Trinity biblical?” He answers this question positively and negatively; he both canvases answers to this question that he deems insufficient (like in the case with B.B. Warfield in chapter 3), and demonstrates his proposal for how to answer this question (like his essays demonstration a theological interpretation of Scripture in chapters 4, 5, and 6).
The layout of these essays is quite nice, and there seems to be a logic behind it. In chapter 2 (the essay entitled, “The Bible and the Trinity in Recent Thought: Review, Analysis, and Constructive Proposal”), you get a good sense on what Swain is all about. For Swain, the concept of “divine naming” is at the heart of how we understand the biblical nature of the doctrine of the Trinity. According to Swain, Scripture lays out three general patterns of divine naming—i.e., there are three ways in which the Triune God reveals himself in Scripture, which all teach us distinct and interrelated realities about his Triune identity. The first is the monotheistic pattern of divine naming (i.e., there is only one God). The second is the relational pattern of divine naming (i.e., within this framework of the revelation of this one God, his identity is elaborated on as tri-personal as the Father, Son, and Spirit are distinguished by their mutual relations). This is where many evangelicals are content to stop, but for Swain, a third pattern of divine naming must be given its due: the metaphysical pattern of divine naming. And this pattern of divine naming helps us to understand and responsibly relate the other two patterns. Thus, at the heart of theological interpretation of Scripture—the Triune God’s self-revelation of his Triune Nature, which he perfectly understands by nature, and which he in part illumines to us in our state of grace—is our humble reception of these patterns of divine naming.
But, unlike many theologians, Swain is not content to simply propose such a way of reading the Scripture, he demonstrates what this looks like with theological interpretations of Mark 12:35-37, Galatians 4:4-7, and Revelation 4-5.
Swain is one of the greatest trinitarian theologians of our time, and so it is right for me to also say that reading him is a deeply doxological endeavor. I highly recommend this brilliant little compilation of some of his essays. Enjoy them while you eagerly anticipate his major forthcoming works on Divine Naming.
*Lexham Press was kind enough to send me a copy of this book, but they didn’t expect for me to write a positive review.
The Trinity and the Bible is a collection of five academic essays Swain has written on the Trinity and Scripture over the past decade (with the addition of one introductory essay and a concluding one which concisely lays out axioms on the Trinity, the Bible, and Theological Interpretation). In these essays, Swain wrestles with the question, “In what way is the doctrine of the Trinity biblical?” He answers this question positively and negatively; he both canvases answers to this question that he deems insufficient (like in the case with B.B. Warfield in chapter 3), and demonstrates his proposal for how to answer this question (like his essays demonstration a theological interpretation of Scripture in chapters 4, 5, and 6).
The layout of these essays is quite nice, and there seems to be a logic behind it. In chapter 2 (the essay entitled, “The Bible and the Trinity in Recent Thought: Review, Analysis, and Constructive Proposal”), you get a good sense on what Swain is all about. For Swain, the concept of “divine naming” is at the heart of how we understand the biblical nature of the doctrine of the Trinity. According to Swain, Scripture lays out three general patterns of divine naming—i.e., there are three ways in which the Triune God reveals himself in Scripture, which all teach us distinct and interrelated realities about his Triune identity. The first is the monotheistic pattern of divine naming (i.e., there is only one God). The second is the relational pattern of divine naming (i.e., within this framework of the revelation of this one God, his identity is elaborated on as tri-personal as the Father, Son, and Spirit are distinguished by their mutual relations). This is where many evangelicals are content to stop, but for Swain, a third pattern of divine naming must be given its due: the metaphysical pattern of divine naming. And this pattern of divine naming helps us to understand and responsibly relate the other two patterns. Thus, at the heart of theological interpretation of Scripture—the Triune God’s self-revelation of his Triune Nature, which he perfectly understands by nature, and which he in part illumines to us in our state of grace—is our humble reception of these patterns of divine naming.
But, unlike many theologians, Swain is not content to simply propose such a way of reading the Scripture, he demonstrates what this looks like with theological interpretations of Mark 12:35-37, Galatians 4:4-7, and Revelation 4-5.
Swain is one of the greatest trinitarian theologians of our time, and so it is right for me to also say that reading him is a deeply doxological endeavor. I highly recommend this brilliant little compilation of some of his essays. Enjoy them while you eagerly anticipate his major forthcoming works on Divine Naming.
*Lexham Press was kind enough to send me a copy of this book, but they didn’t expect for me to write a positive review.
October 27, 2021
Ignatius writing to the Philippians, says: "For if there is one God of the universe, the Father of Christ," of whom are all things; " and one Lord Jesus Christ, our [Lord], "by whom are all things;" and also one Holy Spirit, who wrought in Moses, and in the prophets and apostles ”
Talking about the Trinity has been an issue that has led the church in every age to delve into the Scriptures and praise the Triune God who has revealed himself to our lives. In this time, the doctrine of the Trinity has aroused greater interest in both pastors and laity, and this has led to questions, debates and some conclusions.
"The Trinity & the Bible: On Theological Interpretation" written by Dr. Scott Swain, comes to make a reference work that will help the reader to meet in the Scriptures with the Triune God. As Swain writes: “The possibility of theological knowledge is grounded epistemologically in the fact that God, in his sovereign good pleasure of him, has condescended to reveal himself to babes (11: 25–26). “No one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him” (11:27) ”(pp.60). This knowledge of the Triune God in our lives is a work of grace and of his good will.
The book is divided into seven chapters, in which the reader will find a Trinitarian frame of reference for the exegetical study and reading of the Scriptures. The focus is “the Triune God who presents himself to us in Holy Scripture as the object of our shared knowledge, love, and praise.” (pp.1)
Unlike other books on the Trinity, this work clearly through this series of essays provides the reader a reflection on how to meet the Triune God revealed in the New Testament.
I have enjoyed this book, particularly chapter three which addresses Warfield's position and the Trinity, understanding this is important to current discussions; also chapter seven that condenses into seven axioms everything seen in the book.
I invite you to read "The Trinity & the Bible: On Theological Interpretation" and marvel at the Triune God who is revealed in the Scriptures.
Talking about the Trinity has been an issue that has led the church in every age to delve into the Scriptures and praise the Triune God who has revealed himself to our lives. In this time, the doctrine of the Trinity has aroused greater interest in both pastors and laity, and this has led to questions, debates and some conclusions.
"The Trinity & the Bible: On Theological Interpretation" written by Dr. Scott Swain, comes to make a reference work that will help the reader to meet in the Scriptures with the Triune God. As Swain writes: “The possibility of theological knowledge is grounded epistemologically in the fact that God, in his sovereign good pleasure of him, has condescended to reveal himself to babes (11: 25–26). “No one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him” (11:27) ”(pp.60). This knowledge of the Triune God in our lives is a work of grace and of his good will.
The book is divided into seven chapters, in which the reader will find a Trinitarian frame of reference for the exegetical study and reading of the Scriptures. The focus is “the Triune God who presents himself to us in Holy Scripture as the object of our shared knowledge, love, and praise.” (pp.1)
Unlike other books on the Trinity, this work clearly through this series of essays provides the reader a reflection on how to meet the Triune God revealed in the New Testament.
I have enjoyed this book, particularly chapter three which addresses Warfield's position and the Trinity, understanding this is important to current discussions; also chapter seven that condenses into seven axioms everything seen in the book.
I invite you to read "The Trinity & the Bible: On Theological Interpretation" and marvel at the Triune God who is revealed in the Scriptures.
April 3, 2023
Good, solid example of how to read Scripture carefully,
particularly as it pertains to the doctrine of the Trinity. The Bible is dripping with Trinitarian language, but theological interpretation helps us to notice and utilize this language well. Swain does an excellent job at this. The last chapter on Rev. 4-5 is worth reading the whole book for!
particularly as it pertains to the doctrine of the Trinity. The Bible is dripping with Trinitarian language, but theological interpretation helps us to notice and utilize this language well. Swain does an excellent job at this. The last chapter on Rev. 4-5 is worth reading the whole book for!
May 1, 2025
This book is an absolute masterpiece, and I will absolutely be re-reading it for teaching and preaching preparation. This book opens a whole new appreciation and way of understanding the Trinity, and I wish it didn’t end.
Every Christian in every denomination who takes their study seriously should read this and be encouraged by it.
Every Christian in every denomination who takes their study seriously should read this and be encouraged by it.
June 23, 2023
Great tool for reading scripture. Dr. Swain argues and shows how to use a Trinitarian biblical exegesis. The book is broken down into why, the history, several examples of the process used, and finally principles to doing so.
Great tool!
Great tool!
November 18, 2021
Simply fantastic.
March 20, 2022
Short but dense and rich. If you are interested in Scripture and/or the Trinity, you should read this one!
April 6, 2022
Much that is helpful, like chapter 3, “B. B. Warfield and the Biblical Doctrine of the Trinity” and chapter 6, “To Him Who Sits on the Throne and to the Lamb.”
March 17, 2025
Very cohesive for a collection of essays. The chapter on Galatians 4 was my favorite
August 21, 2023
The only reason I don't give this book 5 stars is because it's not accessible to the average person. Books about theology are not unfamiliar to me, and many times I felt lost. This work is a collection of academic essays that are clearly aimed towards other experts in the field of theology.
That being said though, it contains some amazing, commonly unexplored truths about the Trinity. Chapter 6 has forever changed how I read Rev. 4-5 and alone is well worth the reading of this book.
The Trinity is often seen as a topic above our comprehension and therefore not worth diving into greater study. For myself, I was definitely guilty of this thinking. I found this quote by Swain to be an appropriate challenge to that:
"Holy Scripture affords us with an embarrassment of riches, and we are concerned to identify and appreciate each treasure of holy Scripture in its distinctive beauty and worth."
There is great value in reading this work.
That being said though, it contains some amazing, commonly unexplored truths about the Trinity. Chapter 6 has forever changed how I read Rev. 4-5 and alone is well worth the reading of this book.
The Trinity is often seen as a topic above our comprehension and therefore not worth diving into greater study. For myself, I was definitely guilty of this thinking. I found this quote by Swain to be an appropriate challenge to that:
"Holy Scripture affords us with an embarrassment of riches, and we are concerned to identify and appreciate each treasure of holy Scripture in its distinctive beauty and worth."
There is great value in reading this work.
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