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What is Systematic Theology?
Article first published online: 20 JAN 2009
DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-2400.2008.00422.x
© The author 2009. Journal compilation © Blackwell Publishing Ltd 2009
Additional Information
How to Cite
WILLIAMS, A. (2009), What is Systematic Theology?. International Journal of Systematic Theology, 11: 40–55. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2400.2008.00422.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 20 JAN 2009
- Article first published online: 20 JAN 2009
Abstract
This article examines the nature of systematic theology, arguing that systematicity is an intrinsic quality of all Christian theology, one stemming from the relationality of its subject matter, the Trinity and other things as they are related to the Trinity. The relationality of the divinely-created order reflects the ratio that is, on the Christian account, God ipse. Systematic theology is simply theology that reflects this ratio and the relations obtaining among creatures, and between creatures and their divine source, as well as the relationality of that source, the Persons of the Trinity.