Trinitarian Dogmatics: Exploring the Grammar of the Christian Doctrine of God

by D. Glenn Butner Jr.

Christianity Today 2023 Award of Merit (Academic Theology)

This introduction draws on the breadth of the Christian tradition to present a biblically grounded, globally informed, and conceptually precise account of the doctrine of the Trinity. It covers key themes and concepts, offering an alternative to introductory texts on the Trinity that are arranged historically/chronologically. The book incorporates majority world theology, engages important debates in contemporary biblical studies, and draws on neglected historical figures. It also contains a glossary of trinitarian terms and an annotated bibliography of major works on the doctrine of God.

Genres: Theology, Philosophy

288 pages, Paperback

Published July 19, 2022

Reviews

[Samuel G. Parkison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding. This book is very helpful in laying out the landscape of Trinitarian dogmatics. But does a fine job at presenting the major issues, defining carefully the edges of orthodoxy (in biblical, historical, and logical-philosophical perspective), and he is refreshingly reserved on many difficult issues in which orthodox theologians have historically differed. In that sense, while Butner is clear and persuasive and convictional, he is also modest in his aims. The truly curious reader will not walk away empty-handed.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent reference for classical Trinitarian theology. Addresses both historical theology while also addressing contemporary theology on the Doctrine of the Trinity and Doctrine of God (Consubstantiality, Simplicity, Inseparable Operations, etc.).

The glossary and recommended reading sections make this a valuable research reference for pastors, Seminary students, and serious bible students. It does entail some technical reading but can be read by utilizing the glossary to look up theological terminology.

[Jesse Bingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly excellent work. Not exactly accessible, but Butner manages to be both broad and deep in his coverage of dogmatic loci. I found the conceptual organization helpful. Butner shows commitment to historic orthodoxy as well as to that orthodoxy’s foundation in biblical exegesis. He is balanced and thoughtful. Where I disagreed with Letham’s harsh evaluation of the Augustine/Aquinas/Edwards trinitarian analogy (Son and Spirit as the Father’s self knowledge and self love), Butner discusses it with more nuanced appreciation. Similarly, the final chapter discusses various models of worship/communion with the Trinity in a way which finds value in all of them rather than presenting one as ideal (which Sanders comes close to doing).

One of my favorite aspects of his work is his generosity when it comes to conversation partners. He has a gift for pulling out valuable elements even from those with whom he has significant disagreements. The breadth of his sources is also impressive, as he brings the witness of the global church to bear in helpful ways. I look forward to his forthcoming work on Christology.

[Jason Alligood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glenn Butner does a superb job of capturing the elements of the classical understanding of Trinitarianism, while also giving differing views a fair read even when disproving them. In fact, he leaves hardly a stone unturned in dealing with various views and heresies. He adeptly models retrieval and the difficult task of bringing it to bear upon the modern mind. While Butner may go deeper than the unread person in the pew may be able to follow, the truly theologically minded churchgoer, though challenged, will find a wealth of doctrine to absorb, and the well-versed pastor and scholar will benefit from its Biblical, Dogmatic, and Historical riches.

[Ryan Storch · Rating 5 out of 5]

In his book Trinitarian Dogmatics, Glenn Butner sets out to provide an introduction to the Doctrine of God. That is exactly what this text is. This book is a unique blend of Biblical, Historical, and Systematic theology. Butner takes time to engage with Biblical texts while also addressing the development of Trinitarian theology while embracing classical categories. This book is sure to provide robust grammar for how Christians speak of God.

[Micah Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I found his arguments to be somewhat meandering and his conclusions very modest for the amount of meandering that led up to them. I don't think there's anything in this book that isn't done better in Biblical Reasoning (and with BR you get a pretty thorough Christology too).

[Matthijs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Glenn Butner, universitair docent theology and christian ministry aan het Sterling College, schreef Trinitarian Dogmatics als een introductie op de triniteitsleer. In zijn boek schetst hij niet de historische ontwikkeling van de triniteitsleer, maar gaat hij thematisch aspecten van de triniteitsleer langs. Steeds laat hij zien hoe er in de traditie van de kerk over een aspect gedacht is door enkele kenmerkende theologen uit de Vroege Kerk, de Middeleeuwen of de gereformeerde scholastiek te bespreken. Onkunde van deze traditie zorgt er volgens hem voor dat bepaalde wezenlijke aspecten van de triniteitsleer in de hedendaagse theologie geen rol meer spelen. Ook geeft hij steeds een exegetische onderbouwing en laat hij zien wat de dogmatische functie is van een aspect van de triniteitsleer. Elk hoofdstuk wordt afgesloten met literatuurtips. Eerst bespreekt Butner een aantal aspecten van de immanente triniteit: consubstantialiteit, de onderlinge verhoudingen binnen de triniteit, de eenvoud van God, het persoonsbegrip en de perichorese. Daarna komen aspecten van de economische triniteit aan de orde: de zending van de Zoon en de Geest, het werken naar buiten toe en het delen van gelovigen in de gemeenschap van de drie-enige God.
Butner beweegt in zijn boek steeds tussen de eenheid van God en de personen binnen de drie-eenheid. Vader, Zoon en Geest zijn één in wezen. Die ene God is niet een wezen boven de drie personen, maar God bestaat in eenheid uit deze drie personen. Vader, Zoon en Geest zijn wel te onderscheiden, maar niet van elkaar te scheiden. De uniciteit van persoon en identiteit betekent echter niet dat de personen afzonderlijk van elkaar bestaan. De Zoon en de Geest zijn volledig God en delen volledig in de eigenschappen van God. De Zoon komt weliswaar uit de Vader voort door generatie. Maar deze generatie is, anders dan de Arianen veronderstelden, geen schepping. De Zoon is ook niet van eeuwigheid ondergeschikt aan de Vader, zoals sommige hedendaagse evangelicale theologen beweren. Voor de verhouding tussen de Vader en de Geest gebruikt de traditie het begrip spiratie. Daarbij is het de vraag of de Geest op dezelfde wijze door de Zoon als door de Vader gespireerd wordt. Volgens Butner kan de discussie over het filioque niet tot een bevredigende oplossing komen. Het materiaal dat hij biedt, biedt genoeg ruimte vast te houden aan het filioque. Butner is kritisch op moderne ontwikkelingen in de triniteitsleer. Zo gaat Butner niet mee in de gelijkstelling van de immanente triniteit met de economische triniteit, zoals Rahner voorstelde. God is meer dan Zijn openbaring in de heilsgeschiedenis. Butner gaat ook niet mee in de tegenstelling tussen de kerk uit het oosten en het westen op het terrein van de triniteitsleer. Het moderne verwijt dat de westerse theologie met de nadruk op de eenheid de pluraliteit in God geen ruimte kon bieden, is volgens Butner te wijten aan een verkeerd lezen van de traditie. Ook de hedendaagse tendens om de perichorese niet alleen te betrekken op de verhouding tussen de Personen maar ook gebruiken binnen de scheppingsleer, ecclesiologie en de eschatologie vindt Butner geen gelukkige ontwikkeling, omdat daarmee het onderscheid tussen God en schepselen uit het oog verloren kan worden. De gemeenschap van mensen met de drie-enige God hoort voor hem niet thuis bij de immanente triniteit, maar bij de economische triniteit. Butner sluit zijn boek af met de gemeenschap tussen mens en God. Al in het begin geeft hij aan dat de doordenking van de triniteit van betekenis voor de eredienst. De slotzin bevat de wens dat deze dogmatische bezinning mag bijdragen aan het eren van de drie-enige God.
Butner laat zien hoe wezenlijk de kennis van de traditie is. Niet alleen qua inhoudelijke doordenking, maar ook wat bijbelse onderbouwing betreft. Steeds laat Butner zien wat er dogmatisch op het spel staat. Hij betrekt daar ook niet-westerse versies van de triniteitsleer bij. Voor een introductie in de triniteitsleer is het boek van Butner soms vrij technisch en vraagt het om geregeld herlezen te worden. Maar laat niemand zich daardoor afschrikken. Daarvoor levert Butner een te belangrijke bijdrage aan de hedendaagse doordenking van de triniteitsleer.

Recensie voor Theologia Reformata

[Will O'kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been said that no one can speak about the Trinity for 15 minutes without uttering some heresy. Nothing is more weighty than trying to understand the mystery of the ineffable God, and at times, nothing is so difficult. So I write here with some genuine trepidation when I say that I think Glenn Butner has written well.

Butner's book is the perfect balance (at least to me) of being academically and theologically rigorous while also remaining approachable by a layman reader. Butner is not satisfied here to simply recite dogma like 'the external works of the Trinity are indivisible' and then walk away; he truly tries to reach the limits of human apprehension of God's majesty. He is humble enough to admit that those limits are real and that they guard us against presumption, pride, and error.

Butner's chapter on perichoretic union as well as his final chapter on the 'practical' ramifications of how to live out a genuine trinitarian theology were highlights for me. I would heartily recommend this book as perhaps the best book I have read so far on classical Trinitarian systematic theology.

Even so...there were and are still times when I have to throw my hands into the air and admit that it feels like even the best theologians are playing complex word games when they try and talk about God. But then I realize that Christian tradition (and even Butner himself) would probably agree with me in this assessment. We are playing word games when we try to reach out and understand the transcendent God. But these word games matter--there is a right and a wrong way to play the game.

Ultimately, this book left me in awe at the bigness of God. God is not like you or me. He is transcendent in holiness, and yet he condescends to bring us into union with himself. May this book lead you into worship as it did for me.

[Jordan Coy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books on Trinitarian theology I have read so far.
Dr. Glenn Butner uses this volume to review the technical terminology and various doctrines we use in our discussions of the doctrine of the Trinity and gives us the Scriptural, Historical, and Dogmatic reasons for why we use these terms and are justified in doing so. He shows how doctrines like Simplicity, Consubstantiality, Perichoresis, etc are rooted in Scripture, affirmed in the historic teachings of the Church, the metaphysical implications of affirmations or denials of these doctrines, and rebuttals to modern criticisms. One of the impressive charactersitics of this book is the wide breadth of reading included in this volume. The East and West writers, Modern and Patristic theologians are all represented and seriously engaged in the various topics. Overall, this book is an excellent source for an in-depth understanding of the terms we use in discussing the Doctrine of the Trinity.

5/5 Excellent Book.

[Scott Bielinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Butner's exceptional new book proves, once again, that he is a trusted theologian. Offering clarity to one of Christianity's most precious doctrines is no easy task, and Butner's sequence may strike one as odd (he begins by exploring consubstantiality), but it makes sense over the course of the whole book. Moreover, each chapter's arguments also benefit from a consistently clear and helpful organizational structure. Butner is clearly a skilled writer and systematic thinker. This is of great benefit to the reader.

For my money, Butner's chapters on the divine persons, perichoresis, the divine missions, and inseparable operations were the most helpful. I think one of the most difficult aspects of trinitarian theology is explaining the divine persons, and Butner's five criteria serve as extremely helpful parameters for our language about the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (To Butner's great credit, he could have spent this chapter re-litigating the EFS debate, but Butner's even-hand and measured personality keep him from beating dead horses--a quality that is to be admired in a theologian) Similarly, the question of each divine person sharing the divine power inevitably raises the specter of tritheism or modalism, and Butner demonstrates how inseparable operations neither necessitates three gods nor renders the three persons indistinguishable.

In the end, Butner is to be commended for offering the church, once more, a clarifying, helpful, and, ultimately, worshipful, work of theology.

[Devin Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an introduction to Trinidadian theology aimed at those in seminary students (imo). Someone without some knowledge of biblical studies might suffer a tad working through this, but it would not be grueling. Chapters 2-7 each take a theological word associated with the Trinity (consubstantiality, processions, perichoresis, etc…) and unpack its historical understand, modern conceptions, and finally a dogmatic approach from Butner. He does a great job taking such a complicated topic and chopping it into bite sized portions. After working through this book as a primary textbook for a seminar on the Trinity class I’m taking I have a much better grasp on the subject. I highly recommend it.

[Claire Breedlove · Rating 4 out of 5]

Residency read. A lot of learning that’s for sure!

[Gareth Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful for understanding how to speak about the trinity

[Kristjan · Rating 5 out of 5]

As part of my formation as a Deacon, I have been reading a lot of text on Christology and the Trinity; and for most of them I finish more confused about the concept then when I started. A major contributor to this is the tendency of the authors you use uncommon terminology (from metaphysics and philosophy) as well as using common terms with the primary understanding/attributes redefined and/or stripped away entirely (eg. persons, begotten, processions, et al). By itself, that would not be as much of a problem if they 1) better defined with concepts with specific examples and 2) didn’t over use the term with slightly different nuances each time. This book appears to fix these short comings (at least for me), presenting and defending the dogmatic theology of the Trinity that would be easily understood by the average joe sitting in the pew (aka me). Welcome to my favorites bookshelf (I intend to come back to this book a lot in the future).

The book is organized into an Introduction with eight (8) chapters and a glossary (something most books mysteriously failed to include). Each chapter roughly follows the same format … an introduction to the chapter topic, a look at the relevant scriptures, a summary of the [development of the ]tradition and history, an examination of the dogma and finally a section details recommended “Further Reading.” Each chapter was written with very accessible language and the metaphysic terms were introduced slowly (in comparison to other texts) after being well explained and illustrated with examples (the entire first chapter is dedicated to just one term: consubstantiation). If you are even confused about a term when it appears again, you can flip back to the Glossary to refresh your recollection. Honestly, this book should get 5* just for organization and presentation.

Throughout the book, the author reminds us that human language and reason are insufficient to truly understand the nature of God, so that it is necessary to approach what limited understanding we do have from several directions … starting with what has been revealed and using reason to discover what is (cataphatic) and is not (apophatic) true. What is especially helpful here is that the author walks you through the reasoning of past [and present] theologians, pointing out the strengths (what they we trying to explain) and weaknesses (where they go to far) of each before introducing the [more balanced] dogmatic view. Why was this helpful? Because in reading previous books and the subject, I found myself drifting into the same discourse without the benefit of correction or explanation on why that would not work as I understand it. In the end, this is still a difficult and confusing topic that I will continue to exploring and refine, but this book is coming with me on the journey.

Introduction
Chapter 1: Consubstantiality
Chapter 2: Processions and Personal Properties
Chapter 3: Simplicity
Chapter 4: Persons and Relations
Chapter 5: Perichoresis
Chapter 6: Missions
Chapter 7: Inseparable Operations
Chapter 8: Communion
Glossary

I was given this free advance review copy (ARC) ebook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

#TrinitarianDogmatics #NetGalley

[E · Rating 4 out of 5]

With apologies for the horrible horrid horrendous cover, which ought to be ripped off or papered over, I can report that this is an excellent book. Butner assembles the building blocks for a robust trinitarian theology that is orthodox in every way. It is refreshing to see classical theology reaffirmed in a clear, logical, and biblical way.

In other words, you might not find anything new here, but you will certainly learnsomething(s) new here (unless your knowledge of the topic is encyclopedic). He shows how one God is triune (not three gods! Because he also shows how three persons are one God). He support simplicity, aseity, inseparable operations, and all the rest. It is a work of dogmatics, so it is not filled with exegesis, but the basis is always there.

Highly recommended. Sad that such a defense of God in his godness chooses to smash the second commandment into smithereens.

[Joseph Sverker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a thoroughly research and utterly impressive book. Butner writes with clarity and wisdom on perhaps the most difficult topic in Christian Theology. I have studied the area for a long time, but never read such a comprehensive introduction to the Trinity. It might not be an easy read if one is new to the question of the Trinity and as such it probably suits better later in to one's theological studies, but having said that, it is a must read if one wants to understand what Christians believe about God and why. Butner really goes out of his way to try to explain what Church Fathers as well as more contemporary theologians meant when they were writing about the Trinity.

[Tim Donnelly]

I probably made it about 40-50% of the way through this book before DNF’ing. Therefore, I can’t give the book an honest rating.

Butner is just operating on an intellectual plane that I haven’t quite reached myself. He’s a genius, and I am not.

Also, turns out that trinitarian theology is incredibly dense and hotly debated throughout church history.

I hope to come back to this book at some point.

[Anthony Spina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really clear and helpful resource for anyone looking to learn more about Trinitarian theology. Clear and introductory enough for the new learner. A wide variety of theologians and depth within its pages (and footnotes) for the eager reader. I especially appreciated the oscillating nature the book—Dr Butner decided to place alternating chapters focusing on divine unity and divine threeness. This text is something I’ll likely return to again and again, especially as a reference.

[Declan Ellis]

This is a really good introduction to the trinity. Particular highlights include the philosophical and exegetical depth Butner manages to convey in so little space as well as his attention to international and non-western perspectives on theology. My main issue was that the book seems to just end abruptly. There is no summary or conclusion, which I felt would have helped me to take in the broad sweep of Butner's argument, which is quite dense at points.
Highly recommended.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good and balanced book. Whether you are new to Trinitarian doctrines or studying academically, this book provides a clear and helpful progression to understand the Trinity in an orthodox and Christian manner.

Of particular note, Butner's explanation of inseparable operations was helpful and addressed several criticisms to help understand it and it's importance.

[Nolan Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Provides an excellent foundation for exploring the Christian doctrine of God. Butner draws on a wealth of theological voices, both ancient and modern. I especially appreciated how he brings together the Cappadocians and Latin thinkers like Augustine and Aquinas. There is lots of wonderful application in here as well that leads to Trinitarian worship!

[Timothy Decker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent though prior familiarity to the subject is required.

[Derek Woodall · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pretty difficult book to read but extremely helpful in giving language to the doctrines of the Trinity.

[Sean Rhoades · Rating 5 out of 5]

Challenging book. Chapter on inseparable operations was outstanding.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

For seminary students, pastors and theologians. Not too accessible for the layman.

[Evan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good, though I disagreed in some minor points

[Nick Roark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful

[Kylie D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deeply rich concepts expressed in an easily digestible yet beautiful manner.

[Caden Farr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really helpful book that covers various aspects of trinitarian theology.

[Becca Sloan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a little heady for me, but Dr. Butner succeeds in keeping a reverent and worshipful heart while exploring the minutiae of trinitarian theology.