The Centrality of Christ in the Theology of Thomas F. Torrance - by Paul D Molnar (Hardcover)

About the Book

"One of the leading systematic theologians Paul D. Molnar examines the theology of Thomas F. Torrance, explores his view of justification by grace alone, emphasizing its relation to Liberation Theology. Molnar discusses Rahner's presuppositions and conclusions on the subject. As well as explores the current issues surrounding the Chalcedon"--

Book Synopsis

Leading systematic theologian, Paul D. Molnar examines the theology of Thomas F. Torrance in three powerful essays.In a ground-breaking chapter, Molnar discusses whether Chalcedon needs to be repaired in order to recognize and maintain the full and complete humanity of Jesus Christ as the incarnate Word.

He also delves into Torrance's view of justification by grace alone and emphasizes its relation to Liberation Theology. Additionally, comparing the approaches of Karl Rahner and T. F. Torrance, this book explores and explains how a number of Rahner's presuppositions and conclusions differ from the positions espoused by Torrance, all in order to illustrate the importance of grace in theologies of both thinkers.

Review Quotes

Paul Molnar is unsurpassed as an interpreter of Karl Barth and Thomas F. Torrance. His command of their writings is astonishing, while his brilliant deployment of them as a normative standard in the service of Nicene Christianity is unique on the contemporary scene. Again and again he dissects otherwise acclaimed proposals to show that on careful inspection they are far less than meets the eye. Anyone dismayed about ill-considered fads in recent theology will find Molnar's arguments in The Centrality of Christto bea powerful antidote in the service of Christ and the gospel.
George Hunsinger, Princeton Theological Seminary, USA

The simple three-chapter structure of this book belies the complexity and depth of the subject matter. T.F. Torrance's theology continues to provide a stimulus for further theological thought and contextual applications, and Molnar is the perfect guide through this journey of exploration. The discussion on the relationship between the economic and immanent Trinity is masterful, and in a context of utter confusion and historical amnesia, Molnar proves to be a sure guide to rigorous and orthodox theological wisdom, showing how to rightly conceive of the Being and Act of God. Few works of theology are as consistently Christological as this, and for this reason alone, Molnar's work deserves a wide reading and reception.
Myk Habets, Laidlaw College, New Zealand

This is a book made up of three long, searching essays. Each could stand on its own as a short monograph; together they explicate unavoidable interconnected dimensions of contemporary understandings of Christ: nature, forgiveness and eternal identity. Paul Molnar, of course, knew my father Thomas F Torrance, and my father greatly respected him. These essays are not however (thankfully) the work of a fan or of a disciple, but of a person unflinchingly and constructively exploring the same fundamental issues forty years later with some classic and some new dialogue partners. The issues remain and Paul Molnar exhibits faith still seeking understanding.
Iain R. Torrance, Princeton Theological Seminary, USA

About the Author

Paul D. Molnar is Professor of Systematic Theology at St John's University, NY, USA.