Joel R. Beeke and Paul M. Smalley, Reformed Systematic Theology: Church and Last Things, volume 4 (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2024), 1360 pp.
Reformed Systematic Theology: Church and Last Things: Church and Last Things by Joel Beeke and Paul Smalley concludes their four volume study. Like the other three works, these authors demonstrate their allegiance to the authority of Scripture by exalting God and encouraging others to follow their example.
The section on ecclesiology focus on terminology and biblical metaphors for the church. Special attention is given to the Christ’s teaching about the church as well as attributes and marks of the church. The most aspect of this section was the treatment of church membership. This topic has been neglected by many churches. The necessary corrective and biblical instruction are included this book.
Beeke and Smalley explain the doctrine of the church’s authority and work and pay especially close attention to the sacraments. As a Reformed Baptist, I am not convinced by the arguments for paedobaptism. However, I am greatly encouraged by the humility that Dr. Beeke demonstrates when advocating for his view.
Dispensationalists will struggle with some of the content here as the authors argue that “the church is the supernatural work of God. God’s people are the beginning of the new creation, the first installment of his promise in Isaiah 65:17-18: ‘ Behold, I create new heavens and a new earth … Behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy.’” The authors conclude, “The church in the New Testament is the eschatological Israel.” I encourage dispensational thinkers to approach this volume with an open mind and a heart that is inclined to be persuaded.
The section on eschatology includes the usual categories of personal and general eschatology. The authors contest their ammillenial position in contrast to classical dispensationalism.
The section entitled, the doctrine of hope in Christ aloneis worth the price of the book as the authors focus their attention on eternal judgement and eternal life with God in Christ.
One highlight that especially intrigued me was the disagreement between Dr. Beeke and Mr. Smalley on the matter of baptism. Dr. Beeke advocates for paedobaptism. Mr. Smalley embraces credo baptism. A very helpful appendix is included by Mr. Smalley where he argues winsomely for his position.
What these two authors model is something to behold. Here are two godly men who agree on most areas of theology. Yet, they part ways on the matter of baptism. Their disagreement is no cause for disunity, however. They respect and love one another while holding firm to their doctrinal convictions. May God use these men to sufficiently model charity and humility in the academic and ecclesiastical arenas. And may God by greatly honored by their respective approaches.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Veritas et Lux 