Chapter 2: The History and Literature of Dogmatic Theology

In the 1st chapter Bavinck has been arguing for a scientific, systematic approach to dogmatic theology. As he says on page 27 of chapter 1, “The content of dogmatic theology is the knowledge of God as he as revealed it in Christ through his Word.” So the content and object of study for the theologian is the Holy Scriptures, which provides the subject matter, such as the Doctrine of God, Doctrine of Creation, Doctrine of Salvation (Soteriology) etc… of study. This study is done by using what Bavinck terms the synthetic-genetic method whereby we don’t read verses, chapters, or even books of the Bible in isolation of each other, but rather study each verse, chapter, and book in concert with all of redemptive history. For instance, what God said to Adam and Eve about the promised seed in Genesis 3:15, has huge implications throughout each book of the bible and all of redemptive history.

This content and this scientific investigation can only be done through faith, by a man of faith. What God has spoken, man ought to believe is the backbone of faith. Also, this dogmatic theology must be done in from within the community of believers, the church.

The church is not only the believers of this present day and age, but the community of all believers from the beginning of history till Christ’s return. And here in Chapter 2 Bavinck, who was known for his brilliant scholarship in Historical Theology, stresses the importance at looking at the historical developments of theology in the Church. The church being an organic institution, ordained by Jesus Christ, is expected to grow not only quantitatively (number of believers), but also qualitatively in knowledge, piety, and worship. As Bavinck says on page 30 the Holy Spirit is leading and will not rest until the fullness of knowledge and wisdom of God in Christ has filled the church. So by building upon the work of previous generations guided by the Spirit, the Dogmatic Theologian will advance the truth and knowledge of God, for the glory of God, and for the good of the church.