Theoretical-Practical Theology, Volume 3: The Works of God and the Fall of Man

by Petrus Van Mastricht, Todd M. Rester, Joel R. Beeke

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 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
Part 1 Prolegomena and Faith
Book 3: The Works of God
The Actions and Decrees of God
Predestination
Election
Reprobation
Creation in General
The World and the Work of the Six Days
The Good Angels
The Evil Angels
Man and the Image of God
The General Providence of God
Special Providence
The Covenant of Nature
Book 4: Man’s Apostasy from God
The Violation of the Covenant of Nature
Original Sin
Actual Sin
The Penalty and State of Sin

Genres: Theology, Reference

680 pages, Hardcover

Published December 14, 2021

Reviews

[Zachary Horn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. Mastricht's treatment of angels is perhaps the first time I've been engrossed in the subject while reading through a systematic theology. The section on sin is very good as well.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This volume is really good, though, since I read it in an eBook version, I feel as if I missed out by not reading a hard copy. Given the price of the hard copy compared to that of the eBook edition in the RHB sale, however, it really is a no-brainer. Plus, the eBook version is useful for someone who likes to copy and paste for a blog.

The highlights of this volume include a nuanced defence of supralapsarianism, a rejection of the well-meant offer, a defence of six-day creation, an assertion that man has both lost and retained the image of God, and strong arguments in favour of the covenant of works. I did see some things in relation to the decree that perhaps hinted at the author holding a similar view to Jonathan Edwards' alleged determinism, but I may be mistaken on that point.

[Jon Vos · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. The sections on predestination and election, although not entirely in line with the rest of the Reformers, is stimulating. The sections on angels were very well done.