Petrus van Mastricht’s Theoretical-Practical Theology presents one of the most comprehensive studies of Christian doctrine ever penned. Freshly translated from the original Latin by Dr. Todd M. Rester, van Mastricht's masterwork presents a theological system committed to Scripture as the foundational and final authority, the classic Trinitarian and Christological formulas of Western Christianity, the Reformed confessions and covenant theology, and a vibrant emphasis on practical preaching. Van Mastricht treats every theological topic using what he calls "the best method of preaching:"
Exegetical: Drawing out the meaning of essential passages of Scripture that form the foundation of key doctrines. Dogmatic: Assembling the truths of Scripture into a coherent system of doctrine. Elenctic: Refuting objections and heterodox teachings that undermine Reformed orthodoxy. Practical: Applying these doctrines so that Christians can live for God's glory in Christ.
Here is an Old Testament introduction from someone deeply convinced that he’s handling the word of the living God. Many introductions waste inordinate time on skeptical theories. Dr. Michael Barrett’s formidable expertise does not prevent him from adopting a different posture: bowing humbly beneath Scripture rather than standing in judgment over it.
This is a rare work of scholarly rigor that will be of great use not just in the classroom, but also in the pulpit and in the pew. Ordinary Christians will benefit from new insights into familiar passages while their pastors will interpret with greater clarity and preach with renewed conviction.
Make this your guide to understanding the background, authorship, and themes of each book in the Old Testament. Already adopted by professors across the US for instruction in classrooms this fall, we pray that God will be pleased to grant a great harvest from this great labor.
