Seeking to move beyond current debates on justification, this text thoughtfully engages the Bible, historical theology, and the ongoing life of the church.
John WebsterJustification and the Gospel is theology at its best: disciplined by the instruction of Scripture, attentive to the traditions of Christian thought and practice, filled with discriminating judgments, and eager to explain and commend the gospel of justification.
Professor of Divinity, University of St. Andrews
Timothy GeorgeMichael Allen provides here a first-rate study of the doctrine of justification construed in the context of Christian theology as a whole. His review of contemporary debates and his awareness of biblical and historical sources are alike impressive. This is a book that challenges and provokes as well as informs.
Founding Dean, Beeson Divinity School
J. Todd BillingsIn this important and lively book, R. Michael Allen broadens and deepens contemporary reflection on the doctrine of justification. Allen provides a dogmatic account of justification, attentive to how it relates to other topics in Christian doctrine–including the divine attributes, Trinity, Christology, the church, and the place of participation in God in salvation. In the process, Allen shows how historic catholic and Reformation sources can illuminate a biblical doctrine of justification, moving beyond the caricatures of pre-Enlightenment theologians that have become common in recent debates. Justification and the Gospel is a valuable work that will enlighten, provoke, and edify.
Gordon H. Girod Research Professor of Reformed Theology, Western Theological Seminary
Kelly M. KapicWhen dealing with the explosive topic of justification, fair-minded communication and understanding between theologians, biblical scholars, historians, and practitioners are often hard to find. How rare it can be to find a theologian who not only appreciates the vital significance of justification but also carefully avoids falling into the trap of reducing everything to justification. Allen’s study is logically sound, biblically informed, theologically nuanced, and relevant for the life of the church. Amid ongoing debates, we need this book.
Professor of Theological Studies, Covenant College
Other Resources
In Christ, We Are Cleansed
Rev. Perry McCall
Justification and Regeneration
Practical Writings on Saving Faith
Dr. Kevin DeYoung