The Developing Deity: K. Scott Oliphint's Dialectical Doctrine of God

A robust doctrine of the simplicity and immutability of the triune Creator lies at the heart of biblical religion and Reformed orthodoxy. For at least the past twenty years, proposals from within Reformed theological circles have suggested that God in himself remains simple and does not change, but God in relation to the world becomes composite and changes, taking to himself new attributes that develop over time. One of these proposals has emerged in the writings of K. Scott Oliphint. The Developing Deity examines the covenantal properties thesis from the writings of K. Scott Oliphint and provides a critique from a classical perspective."For the orthodox Protestant tradition, the doctrine of God is as important as the doctrine of scripture; yet many modern theologians have safeguarded the latter while developing the former in ways that deviate in dangerous ways from the catholic tradition. In this book, Ostella offers a clear and trenchant critique of one such troubling approach. Readers may not agree with all he has to say, but it is to be hoped that this book will generate important discussions and indeed vital course corrections among those concerned for the fidelity of the church to the faith once and for all delivered to the saints."—Carl Trueman, Professor of Biblical & Religious Studies, Grove City CollegeRev. C. Adam Ostella “has identified a serious problem in Oliphint’s theology and he has patiently disassembled that theology for all who are willing to look. This book is a reminder that the doctrine of God matters. But more, it is the faithful warning of a watchman telling us where not to look if it is orthodoxy that we seek.”—Jeffrey Stivason, Pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church, Gibsonia, PA“The Developing Deity provides a much needed book-length critique of the thesis of Dr. Oliphint. Not only does Adam Ostella challenge this thesis, he exposes its weaknesses from various theological angles and from a cross section of Dr. Oliphint’s published works . . . I am thankful for Rev. Ostella's work and trust it will further this very needed conversation in the OPC and beyond.”—Richard Barcellos, Pastor of Grace Reformed Baptist Church, Palmdale, CA and Associate Professor of Exegetical Theology at International Reformed Baptist Seminary, Mansfield, TX and author of Trinity & Creation: A Scriptural and Confessional Account"The church must always speak with a clear voice on matters related to the doctrine of God. Along these lines, Ostella’s book seeks to evaluate and offer important criticisms of one modern approach to articulating God’s person and work. Whether or not readers share Ostella’s concerns, they will surely be edified by considering these vital matters in greater detail."— Jonathan Master, President, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary Read more