Theoretical-Practical Theology, Volume 3: The Works of God and the Fall of Man (Van Mastricht)

Petrus van Mastricht’s Theoretical-Practical Theology presents one of the most comprehensive studies of Christian doctrine ever penned. Freshly translated from the original Latin by Dr. Todd M. Rester, van Mastricht's masterwork presents a theological system committed to Scripture as the foundational and final authority, the classic Trinitarian and Christological formulas of Western Christianity, the Reformed confessions and covenant theology, and a vibrant emphasis on practical preaching. Van Mastricht treats every theological topic using what he calls "the best method of preaching:"

• Exegetical: Drawing out the meaning of essential passages of Scripture that form the foundation of key doctrines.
• Dogmatic: Assembling the truths of Scripture into a coherent system of doctrine.
• Elenctic: Refuting objections and heterodox teachings that undermine Reformed orthodoxy.
• Practical: Applying these doctrines so that Christians can live for God's glory in Christ.

In Volume 3: The Works of God and the Fall of Man, van Mastricht moves on to discuss the origins of the created order and sin. Building on the foundation of God's character, van Mastricht expounds on God's sovereign decrees and providential work in Creation. He then concludes by recounting Adam's fall and the devastating effects of sin on man and all of God's creation.

In many ways, van Mastricht remains unsurpassed in his rigorous, scholastic, and pastoral treatment of Reformed theology. Whether you are a student, pastor, or scholar, you will find a valuable model for moving from the text of Scripture to doctrinal formulation that edifies the people of God:

". . . take Mastricht for divinity in general, doctrine, practice, and controversy, or as an universal system of divinity; and it is much better than Turretin or any other book in the world, excepting the Bible, in my opinion.”
—Jonathan Edwards

". . . a great gift to the Christian church as a whole, and to students, pastors, and scholars in particular.”
—Sinclair B. Ferguson, Chancellor’s Professor of Systematic Theology, Reformed Theological Seminary; and teaching fellow, Ligonier Ministries

“Van Mastricht is one of the greatest of the Reformed orthodox. . . His grasp of the tradition, his ability to interact with contemporary issues, and his careful articulation of orthodoxy exemplify the best of Protestant theology after the Reformation.”
—Carl R. Trueman, professor of biblical and religious studies, Grove City College

“Any serious student of Reformed theology needs to sit at the feet of Petrus van Mastricht."
—Stephen J. Nichols, president of Reformation Bible College and chief academic officer of Ligonier Ministries 

“A new appreciation has grown in our time for the great post-Reformation theologians of the Reformed tradition, and Petrus van Mastricht was a towering giant among them."
—Ligon Duncan, chancellor and CEO, John E. Richards Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology, Reformed Theological Seminary

About the Authors and Editors

Petrus van Mastricht (1630–1706) was a Dutch theologian who studied at Utrecht under Gisbertus Voetius and Johannes Hoornbeeck. He pastored churches in the Netherlands and taught at the universities of Duisburg and Utrecht. His Theoretical-Practical Theology was praised by many as one of the great works of systematic theology and is noted for treating Christian doctrine comprehensively from its exegetical foundations to its practical use for one’s soul.

Todd M. Rester is a historian of early modern theology and philosophy in the School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy, and Politics, Queen’s University Belfast. He also volunteers as the director of The Junius Institute for Digital Reformation Research.

Joel R. Beeke is president and professor of systematic theology and homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, and a pastor of the Heritage Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, Michigan.