- Biblical Foundations: Understanding the Identity of Christ
In this section, Wellum lays the groundwork for understanding Christ's identity by examining the biblical witness. He explores the OT's anticipation of the Messiah, Jesus's self-understanding in the Gospels, and the New Testament's proclamation of Jesus as Lord and Savior. - Theological Formulation: The Establishment of Christological Orthodoxy
Drawing upon this biblical foundation, Wellum next traces the development of Christological doctrine through church history, focusing on the ecumenical councils and creeds that defined orthodox teaching. He explains the significance of the Chalcedonian Definition, which affirmed the two natures of Christ "without confusion, without change, without division, without separation." - Theological Summary: The Orthodox Identity of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Finally, Wellum synthesizes and articulates the key truths about Christ's person and work, emphasizing the importance of both his deity and humanity for our salvation. He concludes by urging readers to recover the centrality of Christ in their lives and in the church. This final section represents a one-stop shop for the broader discussion Wellum develops throughout the other larger sections.
Throughout the book, Wellum engages with contemporary challenges to orthodox Christology, such as historical criticism and postmodern skepticism. He also provides helpful summaries of key doctrines and figures, making the book accessible to readers with little or no prior theological training.
The study scales quite quickly, though, with the further discussion of more technical discussions of the mystery of the incarnation (e.g., the extra, the communicatio idiomatum, and the arguments related to the two wills of Christ). While these sections will challenge most readers in the target audience for this series, Wellum's treatment of these theological concepts is clear, succinct, and closely connected to his other development of the biblical witness and the pastoral implications of Christ's person and work.
For these reasons, this book is an excellent introduction to one of the most important doctrines of the Christian faith. It is clear, concise, and comprehensive, and it will be of benefit to anyone who wants to learn more about who Jesus Christ is and what he has done for us.
Some Notes:
- Wellum's more advanced work on Christology is worth pursuing as well: God the Son Incarnate
- See also my discussion of the "Chalcedonian Box"
- Cf. my other reviews here or on goodreads; Thanks to Crossway for this review copy.
