Bücher von Louis Berkhof

This is the most important 20th century compendium of Reformed Theology. Louis Berkhof's loyalty to the well-defined lines of the Reformed faith, his concise and compact style and his up-to date treatment have made this work the most important twentieth century compendium of Reformed theology. 'The work seemed particularly important to me', writes the author, 'in view of the widespread doctrinal indifference of the present day, of the resulting superficiality and confusion in the minds of many professing Christians, of the insidious errors that are zealously propagated even from the pulpits, and of the alarming increase of all kinds of sects. If there ever was a time when the church ought to guard her precious heritage, the deposit of the truth that was entrusted to her care, that time is now'.Professor Berkhof died in 1957, at the age of 83. He was an outstanding American teacher and the author of some 22 books. After two pastorates, he began his long career as professor at Calvin Seminary, Grand Rapids, in 1906. Here he remained for 38 years, devoting his talents and immense stores of knowledge to the training of men for the ministry. His Systematic Theology was his magnum opus, being revised and enlarged during his lifetime until it reached its present final form.

The book discusses the major areas of Christian belief from a classic Reformed perspective. He covers areas like Theology proper, Anthropology, Christology, Soteriology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology (such strange but essential terms!) And for each topic discussed, there is a historical overview. Thus, one gets a good dose of historical theology along with systematic theology. I found his definitions quite helpful in crystallizing a doctrine and making it sink in. Consider, for instance, his definition of God's holiness: "That perfection of God, in virtue of which He eternally wills and maintains His own moral excellence, abhors sin, and demands purity in his moral creatures." Concise. Clear. Powerful. This is an absolute essential work for any serious student of the Scriptures and as a service guide to their Christian Faith.

Louis Berkhof, well-known Reformed theologian from the early 20th century, left us with this widely-appreciated and timeless resource on the New Testament. Complete with well-organized outlines and clearly presented overviews of each New Testament book, this work is a valuable addition to any reference library.