Salvation Belongs to the Lord: An Introduction to Systematic Theology

Description

Written by John Frame, Salvation Belongs to the Lord serves as an accessible introduction to systematic theology, aimed primarily at beginners and laypeople. The book systematically explores major biblical doctrines while maintaining a conversational and personal tone, making complex theological concepts approachable.

Structure and Themes
The book is divided into two main sections:

Objective Truths: This section addresses doctrines that are once-for-all, such as the nature of God, the Trinity, the incarnation of Christ, and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Subjective and Repeatable Events: This section focuses on doctrines like justification, sanctification, church practices (e.g., sacraments), eschatology, and the order of salvation (ordo salutis).

Frame organizes his theology around God’s lordship, emphasizing three key attributes:

Control: God’s sovereign power over creation.

Authority: His right to command.

Presence: His relational closeness with His people.

These attributes form a triadic framework—situational (control), normative (authority), and existential (presence)—which Frame uses to explain theological concepts systematically.

Content Highlights
Frame begins with God, reflecting biblical priorities, before addressing theology proper in later chapters.

Key topics include anthropology (humanity as God’s image), hamartiology (sin and evil), Christology (the person and work of Christ), pneumatology (the Holy Spirit), covenants, salvation, and ecclesiology (the church).

The book incorporates insights from other theologians like Wayne Grudem but diverges on certain points, such as views on spiritual gifts.

Style and Accessibility
Frame’s writing is marked by clarity and warmth, resembling a personal conversation. He explains technical terms thoroughly while rooting his teachings in Scripture. While not exhaustive, the book provides a solid foundation for understanding systematic theology without overwhelming readers.

Conclusion
Salvation Belongs to the Lord is ideal for those new to systematic theology or seeking a refresher. It balances depth with simplicity, offering thoughtful insights into key doctrines under the lordship of Christ.