H. Orton Wiley's Systematic Theology Collection (4 vols.)

The first volume of H. Orton Wiley’s systematic theology surveys Christian theology and the doctrine of the Father. In the introduction, Wiley explains the various branches of theology and the reason for his choice of systematic theology. He then details the development of theology throughout church history. Wiley defines what religion, revelation, inspiration, and canon is, and what their roles are in theology. His work on the doctrine of the Father first defines God, and then explores God’s existence, nature, divine names, personality, and attributes.

The second volume of H. Orton Wiley’s systematic theology concludes his study of the doctrine of the Father, which he began in volume one. Wiley then surveys the doctrine of the Son and the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Wiley explains the moral and religious aspects of man as it relates to God through the study of anthropology (the science of man), hamartiology (the doctrine of Sin), and original sin (or inherited depravity).

He discusses how Christ’s redemption of mankind factors into his deity, humiliation, and exaltation. Wiley then details the offices of Jesus as prophet, priest, and king. He concludes with a study on atonement, as foretold by the prophets and fulfilled by Christ on the cross. His section on the doctrine of the Holy Spirit examines the role of the Holy Spirit and explains the involvement of the Holy Spirit in preserving a Christian in righteousness, sonship, and sanctification.

The third and final volume of H. Orton Wiley’s systematic theology surveys the doctrine of the church and the doctrine of the last things. In his discussion of the doctrine of the church, Wiley discusses the origin of the church, church polity, ministry, worship, and the sacraments. Surveying the doctrine of the last things, Wiley gives an overview of eschatology as it relates to death and immortality. He then goes on to defend his views on both the intermediate state (such as soul sleep and purgatory). He concludes with a study on the Second Coming, the Resurrection, last judgment, and final consummation.

In this volume, H. Orton Wiley and Paul T. Culbertson adapt Wiley’s three-volume Christian Theology into this brief, yet substantial, book. It is useful both as a textbook for introductory theology courses and a teaching tool for church congregations. Packed with Scripture references, it presents the Wesleyan-Arminian perspective in a devotional tone with practical emphasis.