Overview

Describing Jesus as an “agent” of divine actions, or as one who possesses human “agency,” is commonplace in christological discussions. Yet these discussions often wade in a shallow understanding of the terms’ meanings and the theological implications of such claims. For example, while many theologians who are committed to the definition of Chalcedon consider Jesus one agent, we might ask if this implies that the triune God comprises “three agents?” Or, if Christ possesses “singular agency,” how are his divinity and humanity operative in his actions? In response, this work draws from the theology of John Owen and advancements in philosophy of action in order to offer an account of divine and human agency in christological action from within the Reformed tradition. It provides clarity to the christological and trinitarian uses of the language of “agent/agency” in Christ and attends to the theological (esp. trinitarian) entailments therein. While at first glance there may appear to be internal inconsistencies with accounts that subscribe to classical trinitarianism and Reformed Christological agency, this book argues that Owen helps us recover an understanding of christological agency that is internally coherent and theologically prudent. As such the Reformed tradition can articulate Christological “agency” in a way that is coherent with the testimony of Scripture, the ecumenical councils, and classical trinitarianism while contributing to contemporary theological discussions. The case not only provides terminological clarity and theological coherence, but also inclines Christians to appreciate the trinitarian love of God in Christ’s action and the human sympathy of Christ for his people.

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9780567713735

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Reviews

John Owen is famously difficult, demanding and profound. He continues to inspire theological refection of the highest order. Dr. Kieser has written a first-rate study that will greatly assist anyone interested in trinitarian orthodoxy from a traditional Reformed point of view. * George Hunsinger, Princeton Theological Seminary, USA * Building on his ground-breaking earlier publications, this book establishes Ty Kieser as one of the most important voices in John Owen scholarship – and shows how early modern Protestant scholastic sources can offer intellectually satisfying and pastorally sensitive wisdom in modern theological debates. * Crawford Gribben, Queen’s University Belfast, UK * This book insightfully nuances John Owen’s contemporary Christological legacy, articulates classically Reformed Christology, and analyzes a promising but underdeveloped Christological category—agency. Interacting with Ty Kieser’s work has been very formative for my own. Highly recommended! * Daniel J. Treier, Wheaton College, USA * Kieser offers a thorough and cogent account of Owen’s Christology, correcting a number of misunderstandings in the process. In addition he demonstrates that a classical and Reformed approach to Christological agency has much to offer in current conversations about Christology and the doctrine of God. As such this volume makes a welcome contribution both to historical theology and to contemporary systematics. * Suzanne McDonald, Western Theological Seminary, USA * Ty Kieser has provided us an illuminating and much needed exploration of agency in John Owen’s theology, enabling us to better understand not only Owen's contributions, but also how they fit into both classical Reformed approaches and contemporary debates. * Kelly M. Kapic, Covenant College, USA *

Author Information

Ty Kieser is Assistant Professor of Theology at Criswell College, USA.

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