Systematic Theology: Prolegomena

What is the foundation of theology? In this monumental work—the “first things” of a multi-volume, comprehensive theological system—Norman R. Gulley argues pervasively and persuasively that Scripture must be the sole foundation of authentic evangelical Christian faith. According to Gulley, theology should not depend on philosophy, science, reason, tradition, or experience, but on Scripture alone. His argument stands in contrast to recent influential evangelical theologians who consider Scripture only a witness to revelation, and not revelation itself. According to Gulley, God is thus removed from his Word in the same way others have removed him from his world. He argues that this emptying of Scripture of its propositional, cognitive revelation deconstructs the basis of the evangelical movement. Gulley’s view of sola scriptura drives his detailed, sweeping, and balanced critique of the major underlying themes, issues, and philosophies that have informed some other theological systems. From Parmenides and the timeless view of God in ancient Greece to a detailed analysis of twenty-first-century dispensational theology, Gulley ranges easily over millennia, showing how different concepts and philosophies have affected the premise of sola scriptura for good or ill. Aptly subtitled Prolegomena, this ambitious work functions as an excellent introduction to theological thought. It is designed for general use and for the serious student of theology who will appreciate the opening summary of each chapter’s contents, and the concluding study questions. It also serves as an introduction to the next volume which unfolds Gulley’s system within the biblical cosmic controversy worldview.