West Theological Monograph

A resurgence of Trinitarian interest gained momentum in the twentieth century and it is showing little sign of abating in the twenty-first century. This research endeavors to critically evaluate Miroslav Volf's ecclesial model for the church as the image of the Trinity, one that he presents with the English title, After Our Likeness. Volf proposes a social doctrine of the Trinity, one that is heavily influenced by the theological writings of Jurgen Moltmann, and he puts forward that this nonhierarchical Trinity should be reflected in the structures and theology of the church. If Volf is correct, then a radical reshaping is needed for the church to conform to an egalitarian pattern, one that is after the likeness (Gen 1:26) of an egalitarian God. In this critical examination, Kevin J. Bidwell begins by stating the theological influences that are pertinent to Volf's thesis in After Our Likeness and the assumptions that undergird and inform his whole theological paradigm. An important theological excursus is offered to assess the theology of John Smyth, the first English Baptist, who is Volf's representative figure for the location of his own ecclesiology, the Free Church. A critical analysis follows of Volf's engagement with his two chosen dialogue partners who represent both Western and Eastern theological traditions: Joseph Ratzinger and John D. Zizioulas. Volf presents five theses for the church as the image of the Trinity, which could be labeled as Volf's Free Church in the image of Volf's revised doctrine of the Trinity. This monograph offers extensive insight into the contemporary debate on the doctrine of the Trinity, but it also assesses many aspects of ecclesiology from both Eastern and Western perspectives.

In this work Dr. Brand seeks to contribute a unique complementarian expression of Reformed spirituality, in order to stimulate a spiritual renewal in the contemporary Reformed tradition. Using a distinctively feminine approach, in a theological arena largely monopolized by male theologians, the author anchors corporate and personal spirituality upon the unio mystica, so returning to a Calvinistic appreciation of the Christian life. Grounding Reformed spirituality on the marital union between Christ and the church, a corporate portrait of the church is explored. Critical of the neglect of women in Reformed church life and practice, the author calls the tradition to reform; proposing an intentional complementarian use of women that can practically and spiritually profit the whole church body. The book culminates with an initial tracing of a Reformed feminine spirituality which is pastorally relevant to women, as well as encouraging a renewed experiential enjoyment of Christ for both men and women.

The author of Ephesians shows an interest in the Isaianic new exodus (INE) in facilitating his focus on the present triumph of the people of God. The recipients required both insight and confidence, especially in regard to the certainty of their salvation, its mysterious nature, Jewish-Gentile relations, and their former manner of life. In the face of these challenges the author maintains that victory is secured through God's choice of them and the working of his redemptive program--which inevitably leads to triumphal blessings. As with the exodus-era Hebrews, the readers participate in paschal redemption, now embodied in Christ, along with his resurrection and ascension as the triumphant new exodus warrior over principalities and powers. In addition, and as predicted by OT writers, Gentile proselytes share the blessings of the new exodus, but now on equal footing and access as Jewish Christians--creating a new eschatological temple. Triumphant Christ distributes gifts, facilitates Spirit-endowed living, and enables Christian warfare that mirrors Yahweh and his servant. The recipients of the epistle appear to be called to view INE triumph as above, below, now and not yet, while not discarding current applications on earth.

In ascending to heaven, Jesus Christ gave the church the Great Commission to expand the gospel to all nations. Despite this biblical commission, it is still an unfinished task. As leaders of local churches, pastors play a crucial part in this endeavor. Pastoral leadership principles have varied widely throughout history, yet it is interesting to discover the similarities between pastoral leadership principles practiced by John Chrysostom (AD 347-407) in Antioch and Constantinople, and Won Sang Lee (1937-) in Washington, DC. Despite ministering 1600 years apart, both pastors share the same core values: care for people, Christ-like character, biblical preaching, and world missions. This suggests that continued emphasis on these principles will play a significant role in fulfilling the Great Commission, independent of time and place.

This book focuses on redemptive historical hermeneutics and homiletics within New Testament theology. This is a valuable legacy of the Reformed tradition, despite differences in interpreting and preaching Bible texts that surfaced in Holland (1920s and 1930s) and the United States (1970s onwards) before influencing Korean Reformed churches. The background, origin, distinctiveness, and development of these theological debates is explored and evaluated before the features of redemptive history in Korea are identified. The influence of Western redemptive-historical scholars on the Korean debate are also analyzed. Here is a major and contemporary contribution to reformed-historical hermeneutics and homiletics that is relevant for Korean Reformed churches, but also for all Reformed churches worldwide.