From time to time I read critiques that Reformed theology doesn’t really do justice to the kingdom of God, or that it is weak on kingdom theology. In other words, some current theologians, teachers, and authors are critical of Reformed theology because (in their view) it relegates the kingdom of God to a minor place …
The Kingdom of God and Surprising Reversals (Guinness)
I always appreciate Os Guinness' insights and comments on Christianity and culture. In one part of his book Renaissance Guinness discusses some aspects of the kingdom of God. One of those aspects he calls "surprising reversals." By this, he means that "God's ways are not our ways, and his wisdom is so far above ours …
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God’s Kingdom: From OT to NT
In chapter six of An Old Testament Theology, Bruce Waltke argues that the center of the OT is that Israel’s God, who is holy and merciful, glorifies himself by establishing his rule through the Messiah; the Lord’s Prayer “Hallowed be your name, Your kingdom come” encapsulates this center, Waltke notes. After discussing this theme in …
Reformed Kingdom Ethics
Last week, I mentioned the historic Reformed distinction between the two kingdoms – God’s kingdom of power and his kingdom of grace/glory (LINK). Along with this kingdom distinction, Reformed theology has taught what we might call a kingdom ethic. Or, to ask a catechism question, what do we pray for when we …
The Work of the Holy Spirit in Regeneration
John Murray’s book Redemption Accomplished and Applied is an outstanding biblical explanation of Christ’s work for us and in us. I like this section where Murray talks about regeneration from John 3 – specifically 3:8: The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or …
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