Systematic Theology—II -- By: John J. Murray

Journal: Westminster Theological Journal
Volume: WTJ 26:1 (Nov 1963)
Article: Systematic Theology—II
Author: John J. Murray


Systematic Theology—II

John Murray

Systematic theology is to be distinguished from the discipline that has come to be known as biblical theology. This does not mean that the latter is more biblical. It is true that systematic theology deals with the data of general revelation insofar as these data bear upon theology, and general revelation does not come within the province of biblical theology. But, since the principal source of revelation is Holy Scripture, systematic theology must be concerned to be biblical not one whit less than biblical theology. The difference is merely one of method.

Biblical theology deals with the data of special revelation from the standpoint of its history; systematic theology deals with the same in its totality as a finished product. The method of systematic theology is logical, that of biblical theology is historical. The definition of Geerhardus Vos puts this difference in focus. “Biblical Theology is that branch of Exegetical Theology which deals with the process of the self-revelation of God deposited in the Bible.”1 The pivotal term in this definition is the word “process” as applied to God’s special self-revelation. Or, as Vos says later, when taking account of the objections to the term “biblical theology”, the name “History of Special Revelation” is to be preferred.2

It cannot be denied that special revelation had a history. God did not reveal himself to man in one great and all-embracive disclosure. Since we are mainly concerned with the revelation that post-dates the fall of man and also to a great extent with redemptive revelation, it is apparent that this revelation began with the protevangelium to our first parents, was expanded more and more through successive

generations and ages, and accumulated progressively until it reached its climax in the coming and accomplishments of the Son of God in the fulness of the time, the consummation of the ages. Our perspective is not biblical if we do not reckon with this history and with the process and progression which it involves. And our study of special revelation would not only be too restricted but it would also be dishonouring to God if it did not follow the lines of the plan which he himself pursued in giving us this revelation.

It is necessary to appreciate the terms of the definition of biblical theology.No phase of biblical studies enlists more interest or receives more attention at the present time than biblical theology. There is a reaction against what has been considered to be the religious and theological barrenness of the product that had been so l...

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