Trinitarian Soundings in Systematic Theology is a multi-authored exploration of systematic theology from a Trinitarian perspective. Its aim is to show how the doctrine of the Trinity sheds light on other key doctrines-from prolegomena to eschatology and theological ethics. To borrow a phrase from Robert Jenson, the doctrine of the Trinity ‘is not a separate puzzle to be solved but the framework within which all theology’s puzzles are to be solved’. Given the scarcity of systematic theologies done ‘trinitarianly’, this collective project suggests a path to follow in the formulation of each particular doctrine represented in the volume.
Trinitarian Soundings promises to become an important work given its unique presentation of major themes of systematic theology in their classical order, yet from a Trinitarian point of view. Its contributors include veteran theologians as well as younger scholars who are energetically employing this Trinitarian focus. The contributors represent various theological traditions and geographical locations, which surely bring richness to the theological inquiry. Dedicated to the memory of a pioneer in the resurgence of Trinitarian theology, the late Prof. Colin Gunton, this collection represents a distinctive treatment of systematics, intent on showing the vitality of approaching all aspects of the faith from a self-consciously Trinitarian perspective.
Praise for Trinitarian Soundings in Systematic Theology
“…read as a celebration of Professor Gunton’s theological achievement, Trinitarian Soundings in Systematic Theology is entirely successful… this collection will rightly be welcomed by all those interested in the revival of Trinitarian thought in contemporary dogmatics and especially by Colin Gunton’s many friends and admirers. It is, as Robert Jenson notes, a book he would have loved to read.” —Donald Wood, Theology
‘These fine essays, written by his friends, colleagues, and former students, make a fitting tribute to the late Colin Gunton, to whom they are dedicated. Each chapter examines a particular doctrine through a Trinitarian perspective; together, they comprise a sort of Trinitarian Summa that challenges Christian theologians to understand every aspect of the faith in the light of the God who is Father, Son, and Spirit. In so doing, they effectively demonstrate why the return of Trinitarian thinking and the renaissance of systematic theology in the English-speaking world is no coincidence.” —Kevin J. Vanhoozer, Research Professor of Systematic Theology, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
‘This stimulating collection of papers on the ramifications of what Colin Gunton regarded as the doctrine of all doctrines — the doctrine of the Trinity — demonstrates how widely his influence extended, both through his writing and through personal friendship, for English theology in the last twenty years would not have been what it is without his presence. Fresh and vivid theological work of this kind is the most fitting testimony to a theologian of the first rank.” —John Webster
‘This collection of essays forms a fitting tribute to the late Colin Gunton (1941-2003)….The essays…offer sharp, concise reflections on a wide range of theological themes, and the whole volume is organized around the traditional loci of systemic theology…the whole collection is pervaded by some of Gunton’s deepest theological commitments.” —Ben Myers, Faith and Theology, October 2006 (read the full review at Faith & Theology)
“This book is a way forward for systematic theology. It presents a way to do theology without treating the Trinity in a passing manner or relegating to an afterthought to be placed in an appendix. From beginning to end we can formulate our doctrine of God and everything that follows in Trinitarian terms and for that this book is to be commended.” —Nick Norelli (read the full review at Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth)
“This is essential reading for pastors, academics, and interested others who are looking for an accessible yet profound survey of Trinitarian options in systematic theology.” —Myk Habets, Carey Baptist College, in Pacific Journal of Baptist Research, vol.2 no.2, October 2006
“If you are at all interested in theology, this is an absolute must read, no questions asked.” —Derrick A. Peterson (read the full review at Amazon)
“There will be no disappointments in reading this book–except maybe that it had to end. Trinitarian Soundings is sure to become a classic reference for all who seek to enter into the reality of the Trinity.” —Matthew S. Farlow (read the full review at Amazon)
“It presents a way to do theology without treating the Trinity in a passing manner or relegating to an afterthought to be placed in an appendix. From beginning to end we can formulate our doctrine of God and everything that follows in Trinitarian terms and for that this book is to be commended.” —Nick Norelli
Reviewed by Mark S M Scott in Theological Review, Volume 19, Number 2 (2007)
Reviewed by Bradford McCall in Religious Studies Review, Volume 32, Issue 4 (October 2006), page 249
Mention in Theology Digest, Summer 2006
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