Divine Agency and Divine Action, Volume III

Abstract

Volume III of Divine Agency and Divine Action articulates a vision of systematic theology focused on divine action from creation to eschatology. Volume I developed the foundational conceptual work by showing that the concept of action is a radically open concept that makes possible the appropriation of divine action for today. Volume II argued that in exploring divine action one needs to specify the actual divine actions under review and showed that there could be no progress without extensive soundings across the tradition. Work on divine action requires extended work in doctrinal criticism rooted in the history of theology as a prelude to work that communicates a normative vision of divine action for today. This vision is best explored by taking up the great themes of systematic theology from creation to eschatology yet treating them in a deflationary manner that sees systematic theology as university-level, post-baptismal, Christian instruction. We live in a golden period of theological studies. Yet we also live in a period of disorientation and confusion that calls for a fresh engagement with the demands of systematic theology. Volume III meets that demand by insisting that systematic theology has its own content and modes of inquiry, that it belongs intimately to the journey of faith, and that it requires authentic academic clarity and rigor. It reclaims the rightful place of systematic theology as the center of gravity for theological studies but does so in a manner that makes it accessible to both the church and to the academy.