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

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

1. The Actions and Decrees of God
2. Predestination
3. Election
4. Reprobation
5. Creation in General
6. The World and the Work of the Six Days
7. The Good Angels
8. The Evil Angels
9. Man and the Image of God
10. The General Providence of God
11. Special Providence
12. The Covenant of Nature

Book 4: Man's Apostasy from God

1. The Violation of the Covenant of Nature
2. Original Sin
3. Actual Sin
4. The Penalty and State of Sin

Petrus van Mastricht (1630–1706) was a Dutch theologian who studied at Utrecht under Gisbertus Voetius and Johannes Hoornbeeck. He pastored churches in the Netherlands and taught at the universities of Duisburg and Utrecht. His Theoretical-Practical Theology was praised by many as one of the great works of systematic theology and is noted for treating Christian doctrine comprehensively from its exegetical foundations to its practical use for one’s soul.