The Society for the Advancement of Ecclesiological Theology

August 21, 2009 by Gerald Hiestand

Piper and Wright as Ecclesial Theologians

I read John Piper’s book, The Future of Justification: A Response to N. T. Wright a number of months back, and am now finally reading Tom Wright’s book length response, Justification: God’s Plan and Paul’s Vision.

There’s a lot that could be said here (and I may say some of it later), but I’ll say this much now: both Wright and Piper have produced fine examples of ecclesial theology. I don’t agree fully with either theologian’s treatment of Paul, but it’s clear that both men are writing as Christians and as pastors. The subject matter is not mere academics for either of them. Further, these books are not pitched toward a lay audience, but to fellow theologians and thinkers who share their concern for the health of the church and the advancement of the gospel.

Piper and Wright may not have a common vision on justification, but they do share a common vision for theological reflection.

Categories: Ecclesial Theology | John Piper | Resurrection | Tom Wright