Stephen J. Wellum’s Systematic Theology is a long-awaited work from a renowned scholar. He’s previously written helpful works on various topics in the world of biblical and systematic theology. Here, his wisdom and discernment into the biblical text is on full display. Wellum is writing from classical trinitarian, reformed soteriological, and baptistic ecclesiological perspectives.
Others have written similar works. So, what sets Wellum’s work apart from other systematic theologies? Aside from his unique voice as a scholar, two things stand out. First, Wellum is writing from the perspective of progressive covenantalism. This middle-way between covenant theology and dispensationalism was first formally advanced in his co-authored work, Kingdom through Covenant. Subsequently, other works have helped continue working out this view of how the Bible is put together. Progressive covenantalism takes seriously the importance of God’s saving work through the biblical covenants, yet acknowledges their distinctive purposes in redemptive history, avoiding the problems of theological systems on either side. Though these authors may not formally call themselves progressive covenantalists, this view is similar to scholars like D.A. Carson, Douglas Moo, Thomas Schreiner, and Jason DeRouchie. This work is the first time someone has written a full systematic theology from this perspective.
Second, Wellum’s work stands out for its able use of biblical theology. The discipline of biblical theology looks at the theological themes of Scripture as they are progressively unfolded across time and the canon. This helps balance out a tendency in other systematic theologies to drag and drop verses as support for doctrine proof texts. The additional of biblical theology helps one more accurately understand how certain passages appropriately play a role in our systematic (topical) understanding of Scripture’s theology. Certainly, he incorporates other disciplines like historical theology and philosophy as well. But, Wellum’s grasp of the unfolding storyline of Scripture as an essential influence on systematic theology is masterful.
Beyond this, Wellum’s writing style is clear and crisp. I dove deep into the section on God’s providence in preparation for teaching in the coming months. It’s a topic that can easily become bogged down with technical jargon and tangents of thought. Yet, I put the book down thinking it was one of the most helpful and succinct explanations of the doctrine I’d read or heard. Though this work will inform the academy, Wellum is writing for the church. Theology is shown to be meaningful for the Christian life and mission.
After the release of volume two in the near future, I anticipate that Wellum’s work will become a standard work for students and pastors. Given the clarity and crispness with which he writes along with the masterful blending of various disciplines into the service of a systematic theology, I cannot think of a better book in the genre.
MAGNIFY CHRIST 