Petrus Van Mastricht

Theoretical-Practical Theology, Volume 3 Petrus Van Mastricht

Petrus van Mastricht's Theoretical-Practical Theology presents one of the most comprehensive methods of treating Christian doctrine. In it, Mastricht treats every theological topic according to a four-part approach: exegetical, dogmatic, elenctic, and practical. As a body of divinity, it combines a rigorous, scholastic treatment of doctrine with the pastoral aim of preparing people to live for God through Christ. Students and pastors will find it a valuable model for moving from the text of Scripture to doctrinal formulation that will edify the people of God.

Volume 3, The Works of God and the Fall of Man, is a book of origins--origins of the created order and of sin. Mastricht begins with a discussion of the decrees of God and how they establish His eternal purpose for everything. He then shows how the decrees are carried out in creation and in God's continual providence. The volume concludes with Mastricht's treatment of the apostacy of Adam from his original estate and the devastating effects of sin that followed. This is an important volume for learning how God governs all things, even the rebellious actions of those good things He created.

Table of Contents:

Part 1 Continued: Prolegomena and Faith

Book 3: The Works of GodThe Actions and Decrees of GodPredestinationElectionReprobationCreation in GeneralThe World and the Work of the Six DaysThe Good AngelsThe Evil AngelsMan and the Image of GodThe General Providence of GodSpecial ProvidenceThe Covenant of Nature

Book 4: Man's Apostasy from GodThe Violation of the Covenant of NatureOriginal SinActual SinThe Penalty and State of Sin