The Task of Dogmatics: Explorations in Theological Method

Description

Defining the Nature, Process, and Mission of Dogmatic Discourse. Theologians often discuss method in a remote and preliminary way that suggests they are not yet speaking theologically when speaking methodologically. But it is also possible to reflect on the work of Christian dogmatics in a way that is self-consciously nourished by biblical reasoning, resourced by tradition, joined up with ecclesial practice, and alert to spiritual dynamics. Bringing together theologians who are actively engaged in the writing and editing of extended dogmatics projects, The Task of Dogmatics represents the proceedings of the 2017 Los Angeles Theology Conference and seeks to provide constructive accounts of the nature of the dogmatic task. The eleven diverse essays in this collection include discussions on: Identifying theology's pattern and norm. The validity and relativity of doctrinal statements. The Apostle Paul and the task of dogmatics. The retrieval of patristic and medieval theology. Each of the essays collected in this volume engage with Scripture as well as with others in the field-theologians both past and present, from different confessions-in order to provide constructive resources for contemporary systematic theology and to forge a theology for the future.

Oliver D. Crisp (PhD University of London, DLitt University of Aberdeen) is professor of systematic theology at Fuller Theological Seminary and a professorial fellow of the Institute for Analytic and Exegetical Theology, University of St Andrews. Fred Sanders (PhD, Graduate Theological Union) is professor of theology in the Torrey Honors Institute at Biola University in La Mirada, California. He is author of numerous books including The Deep Things of God: How the Trinity Changes Everything and Dr. Doctrines' Christian Comix. He is co-editor of Jesus in Trinitarian Perspective: An Introductory Christology. Fred is a core participant in the Theological Engagement with California Culture Project and a popular blogger at Scriptorium Daily.