Introduction to Systematic Theology: Cologne Cadre Series

by Louis Berkhof, Bro. Smith SGS (Contributor)

The book discusses the major areas of Christian belief from a classic Reformed perspective. He covers areas like Theology proper, Anthropology, Christology, Soteriology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology (such strange but essential terms!) And for each topic discussed there is a historical overview. Thus one gets a good dose of historical theology along with systematic theology. I found his definitions quite helpful in crystallizing a doctrine and making it sink in. Consider, for instance, his definition of God’s “That perfection of God, in virtue of which He eternally wills and maintains His own moral excellence, abhors sin, and demands purity in his moral creatures.” Concise. Clear. Powerful. An absolute essential work for any serious student of the Scriptures and as service guide to their Christian Faith.

229 pages, Paperback

Published November 4, 2021

About the author

Louis Berkhof (1873–1957) was a Reformed theologian best known for his Systematic Theology (1932). He taught for almost four decades at Calvin Theological Seminary and served as its president from 1931–1944. In his work on systematic theology Berkhof followed in the line of John Calvin and embraced the development of Reformed theology by the Dutch theologians Abraham Kuyper and Herman Bavinck.

Selected publications:

Systematic Theology. Eerdmans, 1932; New Combined Edition, 1996.

The History of Christian Doctrines. Baker, 1978; Banner of Truth, revised, 1996.

Principles of Biblical Interpretation. Baker Academic, 1981; republished, 1994.

A Summary of Christian Doctrine. Eerdmans, 1939; Banner of Truth, 1960.

Reviews

[Daniel Olds · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beware! If you dislike historical theology, you will find this Prolegomena unbearable. However, if like reading about what a bunch of old dead guys believed and taught, this book is for you!
The author Berkhof made some worthy points and distinctions in this volume, though I disagreed with his critique of some theologians, such as Thomas Aquinas.