Geerhardus Vos still has much to teach us. I am excited to see the final volume of Vos’ Reformed Dogmatics. Originally written in Dutch, this important work of systematic theology has remained all but forgotten for over 100 years. This new English translation is completed with the publication of the fifth and final volume.
In contrast to most other systemic theologies, Vos writes in the form of questions and answers. This dialectic method serves the content well, giving it a precision and clarity that is sometimes missed. Each theological subject is developed from general to specific as Vos anticipates objections and clarifications. Vos misses the opportunity to offer a concise, quotable definition for each doctrine. However the scope of the discussion makes up for this weakness.
Not only does Vos show that he knows his contemporaries well, but he is equally at home with both the reformers and early church fathers. Special attention is given to exploring the differences between the Reformed Protestant view and the Roman Catholic view.
Volume 5 deals with the issues of ecclesiology, the means of grace, and eschatology. Those who know Vos’ later writings may be surprised that his presentation of eschatology follows a more traditional perspective without the robust understanding he subsequently explores.
Vos has given us a careful and systematic presentation of many important doctrines of the Christian faith. These volumes are a valuable resource for anyone interested in Reformed Christian doctrine.
Reformed Dogmatics
Geerhardus Vos
Lexham Press, 2016
9781577997320
Disclaimer: I received this book from Westminster Bookstore in exchange for an honest review.
