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The co-op bookstore for avid readers
Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Christian Belief
"Systematic Theology" is the culmination and creative synthesis of John Frame's writing on, teaching about, and studying of the Word of God. This magisterial opus at once biblical, clear, cogent, readable, accessible, and practical summarizes the mature thought of one of the most important and original Reformed theologians of the last hundred years. It will enable you to see clearly how the Bible explains God's great, sweeping plan for mankind.
Book Details
- Publisher: P & R Publishing
- Publish Date: Nov 5th, 2013
- Pages: 1256
- Language: English
- Edition: undefined - undefined
- Dimensions: 10.30in - 7.40in - 2.40in - 5.20lb
- EAN: 9781596382176
- Categories: • Christian Theology - Systematic
About the Author
Frame, John M.: - John M. Frame (BD, Westminster Theological Seminary; AM, MPhil, Yale University; DD, Belhaven College) is J. D. Trimble Professor of Systematic Theology and Philosophy, Emeritus, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando. He is the author of many books, including the four-volume Theology of Lordship series, and previously taught theology and apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary (Philadelphia) and at Westminster Seminary California.
More books by John M. Frame
Praise for this book
"Many times in the past I have grown in my understanding of Scripture and benefited in my practice of ministry as a consequence of John Frame's written reflections on God's Word. Now the opportunity to draw upon that thought from a work that expands and systematizes his reflections from a lifetime of study and devotion is a great treasure for the church and a great gift to all in ministry."--Bryan Chapell, President Emeritus, Covenant Theological Seminary
"No theologian in modern times combines (1) a simple, childlike faith in the Bible, (2) a razor-sharp analytical intellect, (3) a gift for conceptual and linguistic clarity, and (4) a love for Christ's church and everyday Christian people more successfully than John M. Frame. All factors considered, no theologian in recent memory--not Barth, not Brunner, not Pannenberg, not Tillich, nor even the conservatives: Millard Erickson, Carl Henry, the Hodges, Francis Pieper, Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict)--measures up to Frame. He is God's unparalleled gift to the church, and his Systematic Theology is a wellspring of truth in a theologically parched age."--P. Andrew Sandlin, President, Center for Cultural Leadership; Senior Pastor, Cornerstone Bible Church, Santa Cruz
"Few scholars of our generation have done as much as John Frame to combine philosophical, biblical, and confessional concerns in an overarching theological synthesis. Here at last he offers us the fruit of his lifetime's labor as a service to the church of our day and to future generations. This is a work that will edify those who read it, and they in turn will use its message to build up the church of Christ. The wealth of teaching and insight that it contains will be a blessing to many, and we can be sure that it will be mightily used of God in the days ahead."--Gerald L. Bray, Research Professor of Divinity, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University
"Sometimes there is a book that is so complete, so true, so instructive, and so clear that it assumes a prominent place in one's library and stays there for years. John Frame's Systematic Theology is that kind of book. It is a gift to the church . . . and a gift to me. This book will be an anchor to my soul and a source for my theology and faith for the rest of my life. Get it, give it, and rejoice that John Frame wrote it!"--Stephen W. Brown, Professor of Practical Theology Emeritus, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando
"It is always a joyous occasion when one of God's faithful servants of his Word produces the fruit of his many years of labor into a full-fledged systematic theology. This is no small undertaking, but in the grace of God, we in our generation are the happy recipients of just such a work from Professor John Frame. He is, by all odds, one of the best known and most respected Reformed theologians in our day. It is a special joy to see this, the quintessence of a lifetime of his study of God's Word, and now to commend it to all the body of Christ with thanksgiving to God for his gift of Dr. John Frame to the church."--Walter C. Kaiser Jr., President Emeritus, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
"Near the end of his long and fruitful career, John Frame has given us his chef d'oeuvre. His Systematic Theology is the distillation of a life's work in reflecting on how God's Word relates to the Christian life of the simple believer. As his readers have come to expect, his chief emphasis is on the glory of God, the God who saves, the God who loves us. It would be nearly impossible to read this volume without being drawn into fellowship and conversation with the God who is at its center. Full of quotes from poetry, traditional theology, and even hymns, this is perhaps one of the most practical systematic theologies ever penned. It belongs alongside Turretin, Hodge, Bavinck, and the other hall-of-famers in the discipline. All we can say is: thank you, John Frame!"--William Edgar, Professor of Apologetics, Westminster Theological Seminary
"John Frame's Systematic Theology is an important landmark in one-volume treatments of the major loci of doctrine. Frame's signature is readily apparent on every page: commitment to Scripture for everything he writes, accessible philosophical analysis of difficult questions, and, yes, triperspectivalism. This volume ranks as the most recommendable single-volume systematic theology of our time."--Derek W.H. Thomas, Chancellor's Professor of Systematic and Pastoral Theology, Reformed Theological Seminary; Senior Minister, First Presbyterian Church (ARP), Columbia, South Carolina
"John Frame the author has in Systematic Theology captured comprehensively and with clarity what many of us have benefited from in the classroom through John Frame the professor and teacher. His biblical precision and personal passion is spread on every page, which you will quickly desire to turn in order to get to the next page as he allows and propels us to see the singular glory of the triune God revealed in his Word as Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer."--Harry L. Reeder III Senior Pastor, Briarwood Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, AL
"Hurray for John Frame! At a time when systematics has been shoved into a corner by biblical theology in many seminaries, John has published what I can only hope will be an alternative to that imbalance. Not since A. A. Hodge's Outlines, Buswell, Reymond, and Grudem has a truly substantive systematic theology appeared. I expect Systematic Theology to become a classic, and I look forward to its publication with the greatest anticipation."--Jay E. Adams, Author of Competent to Counsel; founder of the Institute for Nouthetic Studies (INS), the National Association of Nouthetic Counselors (NANC), and the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF)
"On my bookshelf sit numerous systematics by Charles Hodge, Louis Berkhof, Robert Reymond, and Wayne Grudem. I enjoy them all. They inform, educate, and bring clarity to different issues within Scripture. While systematics are full of precious knowledge to assist any student to better understand God and his holy Word, the reader will find none so well written, with a meekness and tenderness of heart, as Frame's. The breadth and length and height and depth of God's amazing love graces this volume of theology. If Edwards's 'Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God' can be said to have drawn sinners to Christ, Frame's work will be said to draw Christians even closer to understanding their Creator, God, and Lord more fully. This work is a necessity for every layman, pastor, and scholar alike. "This systematic theology is written from and faithful to a Reformed perspective--glorifying God and his Word. As expected, Frame makes extensive reference to Scripture and the Westminster Confession of Faith, but he makes good use of other confessions, too. While Frame is careful to address numerous contemporary issues, his work directs the reader to Christ--to his salvation alone. This personalizes the text. Though it draws on 'yesterday, ' it makes it applicable to the reader 'today and forever' (Heb. 13:8)."--Joseph R. Nally, Theological Editor, Third Millennium Ministries
"John Frame writes theology for those who want to use, and be used by, the Word of God. He has done his professional theologizing for many years in the context of the preparation of young men for ministry in seminary. But more to the point, his theology's practicality springs from his understanding of the nature of theological reflection itself. When I was his student over forty years ago, he told us, 'Theology is application.' His discussions of the various loci of systematic theology always have an eye on the Holy Scriptures' power and purpose to transform the lives of the people who study them--intellectually and ethically. Anyone who reads this volume will be blessed with a more comprehensive and systematic appreciation for the teachings of the Word of God and at the same time will grow in renewing the mind and life by the Holy Spirit's speaking through the Word."--Roger Wagner, Pastor, Bayview Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Chula Vista, California
"Systematic theology is notoriously challenging to read but even more challenging to write. I tell students that too many modern theologians have given us 'cookbooks' that feed neither the mind nor the soul. John Frame is a great evangelical exception. He has mastered the historical method, and more importantly, his readers have come to expect that biblical theology will guide his systematic theology. As he says, 'The Bible is the most important thing.' I welcome this important volume and encourage all readers of theology, especially students, to have Frame's valuable work at their side."--John H. Armstrong, President, ACT3 Network
"As one who has long admired--and learned so much from--John Frame's contributions to Reformed life and thought, I am so pleased that we now have this fine volume that gathers together the insights of a half-century of serious theological scholarship. The biblical and practical nature of his perspective makes this a refreshing and much-needed resource for all of us who care about a vital Reformed theology."--Richard J. Mouw, President, Professor of Christian Philosophy, Fuller Theological Seminary
"When it comes to the field of systematic theology, anything that John M. Frame writes is certainly worth reading. This is so because Frame understands the difference between the primary standard and secondary standards. The primary source and standard for systematic theology is the written Word of God in Holy Scripture, and the secondary standards are the creeds and confessions formulated by the church across the centuries. Frame does not manipulate the text of Scripture to make it supportive of received doctrinal formulations, but subscribes to the Reformed creeds and confessions because they embody the truth that the Lord has given us in his Word. The creeds and confessions do not stand on a level with the only infallible rule of faith and practice, but are planted deep under Scripture and are subject to revision as the Holy Spirit leads the church of Christ on its way to ultimate victory when the knowledge of the Lord will fill the earth as the waters cover the sea. "In this systematic theology, Frame has not overwhelmed us with the scholarly apparatus characteristic of so much theological literature, and as he certainly is capable of doing. Instead, he has chosen to enter into conversation with his reader, showing how he has come to understand the teaching of God's Word. He takes us with himself into a deeper and fuller exploration of God's creative and redemptive purpose in the world. Frame's work will well serve the needs and interests of the informed layman and theological student as well as the more advanced scholar."--Norman Shepherd, Former pastor and Professor of Systematic Theology, Holland, Michigan
"Here, at last, is John Frame's magnum opus--the fruit of fifty years of teaching theology and training ministers of the gospel. Few other contemporary theologians have influenced me as much as Dr. Frame, and I am eager to see this culmination of his theological labors under the lordship of the triune God make its way into the heads, hands, and hearts of Christians around the world."--Justin Taylor, Coauthor, The Final Days of Jesus; Blogger, "Between Two Worlds"
"Reading John Frame's Systematic Theology often encourages, occasionally puzzles, but almost always stimulates. Growing out of a lifetime of reflection and wrestling with biblical texts, these pages contain much that we can learn from as we all try to understand better how God glorifies his lordship in our salvation. I, for one, am thankful that we now have this one-volume synthesis of Frame's thinking."--Kelly M. Kapic, Professor of Theological Studies, Covenant College
"John Frame has added significant value to the long line of systematic theologies in print. That value emanates from his profound understanding of the Bible, steeped in personal piety. He is a theologian of the heart. The personal, transparent nature of this magnum opus distinguishes it from other systematic theologies, enabling the reader to understand and apply Scripture. A quick scan of the contents dispels any doubt about Frame's broad acquaintance with the literature of the field, but his single-minded pursuit of explaining the great message of the Bible is equally clear. Seldom does a contemporary theologian engage as he does, enriching intellectually, theologically, and spiritually."--Luder G. Whitlock Jr., President Emeritus, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando
"Many years ago, John Frame signaled his desire to show in some measure the richness of the theological resources available to Reformed orthodoxy and thereby to make that position more attractive. Today, Frame's many volumes are themselves vital resources that simultaneously fortify and adorn the Reformed theological tradition that he has expounded over many decades. In this his newest volume--Bible-centered, multiperspectival systematic theology, nurtured in the soil of Warfield, Bavinck, Murray, and Van Til--Frame demonstrates once again why he has become a teacher to this generation of Reformed pastors and theologians. Students familiar with Frame's work know what to expect and will enjoy his application of multiperspectivalism to several new loci. Those new to Frame will find his system accessible, his reflections on doctrine judicious, and his modeling of theology as essentially a study of Scripture a refreshing tonic that can be shared with all of God's people. Thank you, Professor Frame!"--Mark P. Ryan, Director of the Francis A. Schaeffer Institute; Adjunct Professor of Religion and Cultures, Covenant Theological Seminary
"John Frame has given the church a superb new resource in this volume. Taking as his theme the lordship of God, Frame seeks to do what he says the good theologian always does: he states the truth not for its own sake but to build up people in the Christian faith. He incorporates much of the best of modern Reformed theologians (Van Til, Murray, etc.) and addresses the hottest topics of the day, such as the length and nature of the days of Genesis 1 and whether Scripture is inerrant. Many will take issue with one or more of Frame's points, but all will be edified by a careful reading of this work."--Samuel T. Logan Jr., Professor of Church History, Biblical Theological Seminary; Former President, Westminster Theological Seminary
"This book is as brilliant as it is personable. Dr. Frame's panoramic comprehension of the Bible and of various theologians' understandings of its content is matched only by the practical, applicable style of his writing."--Joel C. Hunter, Senior Pastor, NorthlandA Church Distributed, Orlando
"John M. Frame, occupant of the J. D. Trimble Chair of Systematic Theology and Philosophy at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, is a household name not only in Reformed circles but across a broad swath of ecclesiastical and denominational traditions. His published works in the fields of his expertise are widely respected for their adherence to biblical fidelity and the tightness of their argumentation. This major work on systematic theology maintains Frame's reputation for impeccable scholarship on the one hand and eminent practicality on the other. It is a theology that not only educates but works in everyday life."--Eugene H. Merrill, Distinguished Professor of Old Testament Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary
"Those who have appreciated Frame's contributions to theology in previous works, such as his Doctrine of God, will not be disappointed with his Systematic Theology. Adopting a strongly biblical perspective, Frame succeeds in presenting a comprehensive treatment of the various theological loci that also is highly accessible. This book will be of value for the specialist, student, and general reader alike. It marks a major milestone in Frame's distinguished career."--Robert Letham, Senior Tutor, Systematic and Historical Theology, Wales Evangelical School of Theology
"All good theology is practical. Proper theology is for the church, not just for academics. Biblical systematic theology impacts the way we think, the way we live, and the way we feel about God, ourselves, the world, and others. John Frame always does 'good' theology. It will change your life."--Robert C. Cannada Jr., Chancellor Emeritus, Reformed Theological Seminary
"Trends in contemporary theology are generally split between essential and constructive approaches. The older essentialists were committed to doing theology only according to what the Bible says, most of which has been carefully summarized in numerous historic creeds and confessions. Their contemporary standard-bearers have done their best to protect the positions of the forefathers. That cultural trends helped to provide a reactionary climate for much of what essentialists codified and continue to protect as orthodox theology is clear. But no essentialist need admit that cultural trends supplied the raison d'ĂŞtre for his theological positions. That valued role is reserved for Scripture. Against this, constructive theology presents a case for doing original theology according to the present need of each generation and of the church. But it does so by drawing heavily from the norms and values of the contiguous culture. Consequently, constructive theology will always remain open-ended. Frame's Systematic Theology is unique in that it brings together both essential and constructive emphases in contemporary theology. Specifically, it represents vastly original work in theology, while at the same time it remains true to the finished Word of God and to the historic and orthodox confessional documents of Christianity. Frame is not the least bit interested in reconstructing theology. His is an effort to reconceptualize the task of theology along practical and pastoral lines. Sola Scriptura maintains the logic and coherence of his new exposition of theology, while 'perspectivalism' gives it its remarkable ability to explain and to apply God's Word afresh."--John Barber, Pastor, Cornerstone PCA, Jupiter, Florida
"Though it is more compact on each subject, Systematic Theology is not an abridgment of John Frame's earlier books. His already clear thoughts have continued to develop and crystalize. The section on covenant history that precedes the material on the doctrine of God is especially helpful. I look forward to teaching theology with this book."--Howard Griffith, Associate Professor of Systematic Theology and Academic Dean, Reformed Theological Seminary, Washington, D.C.
"Systematic Theology is the culmination of John Frame's life's work in teaching young men who are preparing for the ministry. It is a masterful study that expresses the dogmatic method and thought of a modern Reformer. Frame's approach to systematics articulates a refined synthesis of the theological and philosophical thought of early Westminster Theological Seminary with an emphasis on contemporary religious issues. No student of theology can ignore Frame's magnum opus, which represents a modern commentary on the Reformed perspective for the third millennium. Scholars, pastors, students, and laymen who want to be well informed in modern Reformation thought must drink from the years of wisdom and insight by this humble theologian, whose one great desire is the glory and honor of his God and teaching theology that is adaptable to the church pew."--Kenneth Gary Talbot, President, Whitefield Theological Seminary
"John M. Frame's Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Christian Belief is a remarkable achievement. It is simultaneously scholarly yet accessible, sweeping in scope but penetrating in insight, steeped in historic orthodoxy yet fresh in reflection. Frame herein develops and advances his Westminster perspective on theology and ethics, culminating in what is simply Reformed theology at its best."--Peter A. Lillback, President, Westminster Theological Seminary
"When one thinks of modern Reformed theologians, John Frame is at the top of the list. He has the rare ability to explain complex theological truths in a manner that is simple enough for the layman and deep enough for the scholar. Moreover, his theological guidance is always wise, steady, and, more than anything else, biblical. And now we finally have the book that so many have waited for him to write--a systematic theology. This volume is a wonderful gift for the church. I cannot recommend it highly enough."--Michael J. Kruger, President, Professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte
"Biblical, clear, and cogent, John Frame moves through the loci of theology with ease and without 'looking to the right or to the left.' This new book is not just a cut-and-paste job from past publications. While his volume is less historical than some systematic theologies, Frame avoids bogging down in episodic intellectual controversies, without denying the importance of every 'jot and tittle.'"--Andrew J. Peterson, President, Reformed Theological Seminary, Global Education
"We can count on John Frame to speak of the profound complexities of biblical theology with a precision, perspicuity, and humility that represents the best tendencies of the Reformed tradition. In this work, Professor Frame gives expression to a system of belief that will serve and satisfy a variety of audiences, including the curious layperson, the young seminarian, and the experienced pastor. Never one to shy away from the difficult, thorny issues of his discipline, he explains and upholds the teaching of Scripture, even when that teaching offends modern sensibilities. I would recommend this systematic treatment to all my students."--John Scott Redd Jr., President, Associate Professor of Old Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary, Washington, D.C.
"Even those not as rigorously Reformed in their theology as John Frame will find great benefit in these pages. With a clear commitment to the primacy of Scripture, lucid argumentation, cogent articulation, a love for God's people, and a passion for God's glory throughout all the earth, Frame has produced what should become required reading in seminary classrooms and pastors' studies for years to come."--Mark Young, President, Denver Seminary, Littleton, Colorado
"This is a remarkable volume--a wonderfully clear, refreshingly insightful, profoundly biblical treatment of systematic theology. While reading this book, I felt as though I once again had the privilege of being a student in John Frame's theology classes, the classes that so deeply influenced my thinking as a Westminster Seminary student forty years ago. But now the material has been enriched by a lifetime of further research and teaching. An outstanding achievement!"--Wayne Grudem, Research Professor of Theology and Biblical Studies, Phoenix Seminary, Phoenix, Arizona
"This new systematic theology comes from one of the great theological minds of our age. John Frame's contributions to theology are already massive and many, but now he has given the church a systematic theology. This is a very important book, and it represents a lifetime of consecrated theological reflection. This new volume promises to be an enduring contribution to evangelical theology."--R. Albert Mohler Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky
"Clear, thorough, intelligent, and fair to opposing views, John Frame's work will now be the standard within traditional Reformed theology."--Cornelius Plantinga Jr., President, Calvin Theological Seminary
"Any theologian who says that 'the Bible is the most important thing' is worth listening to. But one whose life commends his theology, as John's does, is doubly worth listening to. This book is a gift to the church written by one who has a brilliant, discerning mind and a servant's heart. I was blessed by reading it."--Don Sweeting, President, James Woodrow Hassell Professor of Church History, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando
"John Frame has written a very big book--another one. Frame's strengths are once again on display: vast scope, unshakable confidence in scripture, carefulness and generosity, a deceptively casual style. What most stands out, though, is the openmindedness of his project. Big as it is, Frame's work raises questions even as it answers them, and as a result he opens ever-new threads in the ongoing conversation that is the Reformed tradition."--Peter J. Leithart, President of Trinity House, Birmingham, Alabama
"John Frame is noted for his ability to articulate clearly and with an economy of words the contours of our Christian faith. He does that in this work with particular skill. Here is a systematic theology that clearly flows from biblical exegesis, follows the biblical storyline, and is faithful to the confessional convictions of the author. It is a significant work that will bless the individual believer and serve the church well."--Liam Goligher, Senior Minister, Tenth Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia
"John Frame says that he is 'immensely thankful to God' for the opportunity to produce this systematic theology. He is not alone: I am immensely thankful that God gave him this opportunity as well. Frame is a deep thinker and a clear communicator--a rare combination among theologians of his stature. Here is a man who knows his church history, his philosophy, his theological systems; but he does not allow these to sidetrack him from pointing--again and again--back to the majesty of Christ in Scripture. Frame shows that theology is not an end in itself. Loving God is the goal. And Frame's volume hits this mark."--J. D. Greear, Lead Pastor, The Summit Church, Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
"This fresh, lucid, and doxological work illustrates the very core of John Frame's project: theology as application. Frame understands the role and place of theology in general and of systematic theology in particular--showcasing one perspective of the Christ's dynamic lordship. He avoids the ditches that frequently crisscross today's paths of theological undertaking--either pining for some prior supposed golden utopian theological era (merely quoting select Reformers), on the one hand, or, on the other hand, limiting the theological exercise to a mere propositional alchemy of privatized preparatory salve for heaven alone (life here in this yucky world consists only of a transitory pilgrimage for which the triune God lacks any true concern or effect other than 'soul-winning'). No, and decidedly no. Frame understands that we have been redeemed by the One who is Lord. We have been saved body and soul from something for something. Therefore, the 'stuff in the middle'--that is, life under the Lord between the cross and the consummation--matters to the Lord here and now and thus should matter to us in all its facets, not just the spiritual ones. Theology in this sense is earthy, and marvelously so. This work is robust, yet accessible; timely, yet evergreen; and innovative, yet orthodox (notice the triad)! Accordingly, theological endeavors hereafter will never be the same because Frame has in this work passionately demonstrated truth--all to Christ's glory and the church's edification. Don't just read this book; apply it!"--Jeffery J. Ventrella, Senior Counsel, Senior Vice-President, Alliance Defending Freedom
"John Frame is one of the most important evangelical theologians of our time, a deeply biblical thinker whose work has epitomized the Reformation principles of sola Scriptura and soli Deo gloria. His writings have proved that Christian scholars don't have to choose between orthodoxy and originality or between profundity and perspicuity. I've long hoped that the Lord would grant Dr. Frame the opportunity and motivation to write a full-length systematic theology, and I'm delighted to see that hope now realized. This exposition of Christian doctrine is the culmination of a lifetime of careful and submissive reflection on the whole counsel of God revealed in Scripture. It will nourish both mind and heart."--James N. Anderson, Professor of Theology and Philosophy, Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte
"John Frame has faced classrooms of bright and talented students for decades. He has shared with them a biblically based theology that faithfully addresses difficult questions and problems. This text is the sweet fruit of that classroom labor. Reading it makes those who never had the opportunity to attend see a little of what we missed and those who were his students glad that they were. Systematic Theology reads extremely well and always points the reader to the glorious Lord who is the text's subject. Frame is to be congratulated for a job well done!"--Richard C. Gamble, Professor of Systematic Theology, Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary
"Not content merely to give us Berkhof in a different wrapper, John Frame has produced a new Systematic Theology that maintains continuity with the best of the Reformed tradition while breaking important new ground. Employing the same multiperspectival approach worked out in his Theology of Lordship series, Dr. Frame addresses the various loci of theology in a fresh way. He grounds his theological work in exegesis and engages widely with theologians across the theological spectrum--and across the centuries. He faithfully teaches as a Reformed theologian, always remembering that the confessional standards of the church are subordinate to Scripture. His approach is balanced and his irenic spirit commendable, though certain to displease some of a more dogmatic stripe. I believe, however, that in our fragmented and needlessly argumentative Reformed circles, we need this theology--'for such a time as this.' Years ago in a personal conversation, Dr. Frame described his approach as being 'Reformed but not angry about it.' His Systematic Theology is 'Reformed but not angry about it, ' and the church will be greatly blessed by this contribution from our foremost theologian."--R. J. Gore Jr., Professor of Systematic Theology and Dean of the Seminary, Erskine Theological Seminary, Due West, South Carolina
"Vintage Frame--the old, old story, but with new slants and new emphases to make the reader sit up and think. John 'Rabbi' Duncan remarked of Jonathan Edwards that his doctrine is all application, and his application doctrine. Frame aspires to be of Edwards's school, but he's also a teacher who sets homework for his readers. Also like Edwards, sometimes his words are spiced with a polemical hot sauce. A systematic theology to ponder and to profit from."--Paul Helm, Teaching Fellow, Philosophical Theology, John Calvin, Regent College
"If you want a philosophy and theology drenched in the Bible with literally thousands of biblical references, this book is for you--and for me! Dr. Frame deals with so many topics with the skills of both a generalist and a specialist that reading him on virtually any subject is greatly beneficial. May this magnum opus of biblical theology be widely read in the church for years to come."--Peter R. Jones, Scholar in Residence, Adjunct Professor of Practical Theology, Westminster Seminary California
"This book by John Frame on systematic theology provides students of God's Word with a tool designed to clearly understand and effectively explain the Scriptures. It is indeed a sterling treasure that is sure to stand the test of time."--Simon J. Kistemaker, Professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando
"As someone who taught systematic theology and Christian doctrine in seminary for some nine years, I find John Frame's Systematic Theology a significant contribution to historic, orthodox, biblical theological thinking. I especially appreciate Frame's conversational style of writing--as if he were talking on a personal level with his reader. If theology is the making of distinctions, Frame does an exceptional job of bringing fresh and illuminating meaning to traditional theological terms; for example, in chapter 3, 'God's Lordship as a Unique Worldview, ' he says of God's immanence that it is 'the deepest sense in which God is present in Jesus.' A telling description, that. I also think Frame's pedagogical focus on the question 'Why does this matter?' is pointedly necessary in today's evangelical climate, and illustrates his view that 'meaning is application.' He is definitely a 'so what' theologian, yet skillfully combines both the fully worked-out objective content and the subjective dimension needed in a proper theological education. Frame's Systematic Theology is admirably accessible without compromising the depth and complexity of biblical theological thought. "One of the most important elements of Frame's Systematic Theology is what I can best describe as its devotional dimension. Even in the discussion of complex metaphysical attributes of God, Frame presents God as an intimately personal being and not simply a philosophical abstraction. His discussion of God's lordship has deepened my own spiritual experience. (Indeed, I found myself reading chapters of Systematic Theology as parts of my daily devotions.) "Were I still teaching systematic theology, Frame's thorough, illuminating, comprehensive, and spiritually powerful treatment of the classical topics of systematic theology would definitely be my primary course text."--Reginald F. McLelland, Professor of Philosophy Emeritus, Covenant College
"John Frame sets out to be biblical, clear, and cogent, and succeeds splendidly. Steeped in the tradition of Geerhardus Vos and John Murray, he offers a work that is firmly rooted in exegesis, comprehensive in scope, and rigorous in methodology, yet easily accessible to all serious lovers of Scripture."--Donald Macleod, Professor of Systematic Theology (Retired), Free Church College, Edinburgh
"I highly recommend this book as a solid, profound, and readable summary of theology, and at the same time a suitable introduction to John Frame's more specialized writings. It is valuable also for those who are already familiar with Frame's works. He sometimes approaches old subjects in new ways, and he includes thoughts and arguments that have not appeared elsewhere or that have appeared in print but have up till now not been integrated into his major works. The result is brilliant, practical, and edifying."--Vern S. Poythress, Professor of New Testament, Westminster Theological Seminary; author, Redeeming Science: A God-Centered Approach
"For those already introduced to Frame, here is the same sober emphasis on a scripturally rooted theology combined with rigorous thinking that you can recall from live lectures or addresses. For those unfamiliar with Frame, here is a wonderful entry to his engaging and nuanced thought, which breathes a commendable evangelical catholicity."--Kenneth J. Stewart, Professor of Theological Studies, Covenant College