I'm wondering if I could get some input on the approach to doing systematic theology. I'm writing a paper on methodology in theology. The text for my systematic theology course (Christian Theology, Milliard Erickson) makes a big deal about whether we are to start with 1) the doctrine of God, 2) Scripture, or 3) some synthesis of both.

I have always thought, maybe carelessly, that we should just assume the existence of God, and since we only know about Him through His self revelation in Scripture we must come to theology and talk about God in the context of Scripture. In other words I just think we have to presuppose the God of the Bible in order to talk about God (since without His special revelation, what could we say about Him aside from acknowledging that there is a God through His revelation in nature). This whole line of reasoning in my text seemed silly to me, but I do think there is value in considering this issue. What is a solid reformed position on this topic? Most texts I've read start with God while using Scripture to analyze His character. They never start with some vague evidentialist argument for His existence.

I've been doing a fair amount of reading on the subject in various texts and systematic theologies but I'd like to hear if anyone has anything to say that might guide me into more clarity, or perhaps some resources I can consult.

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Travis McClain
Member of Covenant OPC St. Augustine, FL
Student at Moody Bible Institute
Facebook
Resident of Palatka, FL

You might want to look at Berkhof's Introduction to Systematic Theology or volume one of Richard Muller's, Post Reformation Reformed Dogmatics. Turretin starts with some principia, moves on to the doctrine of Scripture, and then comes to speak about God.

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Ruben
Moderator
F.P.C.I.
Indiana

Vanities and disguises have covered us, and thereby we are naked; licenciousness hath inflam'd us, and thereby we are frozen; voluptuousness hath fed us, and thereby we are sterved, the fancies and traditions of men have taught and instructed us, and thereby we are ignorant.
John Donne

Board Rules - Signature Requirements - Suggestions?

Calvinistas Conversando
Teología en Mexico
The Howling Wilderness

Your library may have a copy of this, which is an excellent summary to draw upon.

There are plenty of tunnels with cheese down them by searching the phrase prolegomena systematic theology within Google, too.

AMR

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Patrick
Member, PCA
Chandler, AZ
ReformedTheologyInstitute.com

I fear explanations explanatory of things explained.

Thank you brothers!