Holy Trinity: Holy People

by T.A. Noble

Teaching on the sanctification of Christians using the difficult word perfection has been part of Christian spirituality through the centuries. The Fathers spoke of it and Augustine particularly contributed his penetrating analysis of human motivation in terms of love. Medieval theologians such as Bernard and Thomas Aquinas developed the tradition and wrote of levels or "degrees" of "perfection" in love. However, the doctrine has not fared so well among Protestants. John Wesley was the one major Protestant leader who tried to blend this ancient tradition of Christian "perfection" with the Reformation proclamation of justification by grace through faith. This book seeks to develop Wesley's synthesis of patristic and Reformation theology in order to consider how Christian "perfection" can be expressed in a more nuanced way in today's culture. Noble examines what basis may be found for Wesley's understanding of sanctification in the central doctrines of the church, particularly the atonement, the doctrine of Christ, and the most comprehensive of all Christian doctrines, the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. What he sets out is a fully trinitarian theology of holiness.

Genres: Theology

258 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Writing from a Wesleyan perspective, Noble persuasively argues that John Wesley's notion of Christian perfection is not what is often assumed, namely, that Wesley believed that we are able to attain a state of sinlessness. Rather, Wesley, in line with the early church fathers, Aquinas and others, argues for 'entire sanctification,' which is the view that the believer can grow in their love toward God and their fellow human being to a degree that they posses a singular devotion to God.

After clearing up misconceptions of Wesley's teaching on sanctification, Noble takes the remainder of the book to explain sanctification from the perspective of Christ's work (atonement), Christ's person (incarnation), the economic Trinity and, finally, the ontologically Trinity. Here is where Noble shines not only as a historical theologian but also as a systematician. There is much food for thought in this portion of the book. I especially found his discussion of the atonement and the ontological Trinity helpful. In summary, this book is worth considering for anyone interested in a theologically sophisticated exploration of sanctification, whether or not one belongs to the Wesleyan tradition (esp. since Noble grounds much of his thinking in the church fathers).

[Milton Louie · Rating 4 out of 5]

T. A. Noble brings us back to the beginning of our early Christian fathers to show us the relationship of the Trinity to holy living. And a "new" look on Wesley's "perfection". (Link+) B+

[Tyler Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Noble's book is an excellent work on holiness and has helped me come to a much richer (and less shallow) understanding of what it means to be both holy and sanctified. The book is not an easy read, however, and would likely be challenging for the casual lay-reader. Noble is very articulate and discusses his content with depth and rigor. My favorite part of "Holy Trinity: Holy People" is the continual discussion throughout the book of the insights of church leaders and theologians, both historical and contemporary. It is clear that he has read widely and gives consideration (and merit where deserved) to them, pointing out both their greatest flaws and their greatest successes in what they wrote and taught.

[Daniel Coutz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really interesting survey of the development of theology of holiness and the Trinity developed and intersect.

[Fernando Almeida · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author provides a thorough review of this cardinal doctrine for our understanding of the Christian life. Noble provides a strong articulation of this doctrine within the framework of the doctrine of Holy Trinity, and does it masterfully taking into consideration Biblical and Historical perspectives.

[James Paton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding. Reminded my of great days in class. Tom has been my teacher, conversation partner, and friend. An enriching read.