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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 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