Joel R. Beeke
The doctrine of the Trinity demands the careful study of biblical exegesis, historical theology, Christian orthodoxy and heresy, interdenominational differences and discussions, systematic theology, and practical implications. Robert Letham’s outstanding book (this substantially updated and expanded version is even better than the first) covers all the bases well, and yet still leaves us in awe of the incomprehensible mystery of our triune God.
Paul Helm
It is a pleasure to recommend the second edition of Bob Letham’s The Holy Trinity. This ancient doctrine has stirred up new discussion since his acclaimed first edition, but the author has kept up with what has been going on. So I suppose it is fair to say that this augmented text does not contain the author’s last word on this fundamental Christian mystery, but he has given his readers his latest word. In it, Letham continues to display more of his learning and more of his characteristic watchfulness when met by the latest Trinitarian neologisms and analogies.
George Hunsinger
This is a very solid, well-reasoned, and well-researched volume on the doctrine of the Trinity. Letham is a master of historical theology. He brings his immense learning to bear on many contemporary Trinitarian issues in an astute and compelling way. Anyone who reads this work will be greatly informed and enriched.
Gerald Bray
The doctrine of the Trinity is the foundation stone of a distinctively Christian theology, and interest in it continues to grow. In this revised version of his earlier study, Bob Letham takes us through its many aspects, including the controversies that have surrounded it, and guides us to an understanding based on Scripture, faithful to the orthodox tradition and sensitive to today’s needs. Essential reading for us all.
Cornelis P. Venema
Letham’s widely acclaimed study of the doctrine of the Trinity is a model of theological reflection as it ought to be conducted. All the indispensable features of a proper theological method are on open display throughout—attention to scriptural foundations, sympathetic engagement with the historic creeds and confessions of the church, collegial conversation with the best theologians in the history of the Eastern and Western churches, and a desire to see the doctrine of the Trinity more profoundly inform the church’s worship. Considering the complexities of Trinitarian debates, Letham manages to treat the subject with remarkable clarity and insight. Though much contemporary writing on controversial topics is often marred by an excess or an absence of conviction, Letham strikes a good balance. He clearly and resolutely makes his case for a more robust and consistent Trinitarian doctrine and practice in the church. But he does so without caricaturing the positions of those with whom he differs, while remaining resolute in defending the position he embraces. Since Letham’s study is arguably among the finest introductions to the doctrine of the Trinity available today, its republication in revised form is a most welcome development.
Derek W.H. Thomas
Those of us who read the first edition were struck by Letham’s mastery of the historical narrative of Trinitarian theology. Given recent discussion on subordinationism, the newly written introduction alone is justification for purchasing the updated version. The book is evidence of how far short we fall of the erudite discussions of the Trinity in the early church, and how seriously close to ‘another religion’ we come when defending the doctrine today.
Vern Poythress
Robert Letham’s second edition is to be welcomed as a sound guide to biblical, historical, theological aspects of Trinitarian doctrine, and a guide to contributions, dangers, and deviations in contemporary discussions of the Trinity.
Paul D. Molnar
In this carefully constructed second edition of his important book on the Trinity, Robert Letham forcefully and convincingly demonstrates exactly why the classical doctrine of the Trinity, rightly understood, is indispensable not only for all aspects of theology but for ecumenical agreement today. Especially interesting and helpful for students and scholars alike are his analysis and critique, when appropriate, of a variety of prominent contemporary theologians from the West (Barth, Rahner, Moltmann, Pannenberg, T.F. Torrance) and the East (Bulgakov, Lossky, Staniloae) with his perceptive arguments against panentheist views that collapse the immanent into the economic Trinity and dualist views that separate God fromus.
Ryan M. McGraw
This book is complex and simple, deep and accessible. There is a reason why the first edition received so much acclaim. Over the past decade, it has shaped my thinking on the Trinity in more ways than I often realize. Even when I find myself reacting to some nuanced arguments related to Eastern versus Western thought, I have often been surprised that my reactions can be somehow traced back to this book. Whether we agree or disagree with all of the author’s points, this is a great book because it has a way of arresting our attention, refusing to let us ignore it. While this second edition could use a lot more updating in light of recent research, it remains as readable, interesting, and helpful as ever.
