LIVING IN THE HOPE OF FUTURE GLORY
The glorification of the Christian
By Tom Barnes. Evangelical Press. 320 pages. £9.95
ISBN 0-85234-608-2
Glorification, Barnes argues, is a neglected topic in evangelical discussion. This exhaustive (and, on occasion, exhausting!) theological, exegetical and systematic analysis is an intended remedy. The book shows a breadth of reflection and a wide-ranging awareness of evangelical (and especially Reformed) discussion on related issues and provides a soundly-argued, well articulated discussion of the theme.
The first part of the book is devoted to the ‘Theology of Glorification’ and, logically and sequentially, examines the Old and New Testament. It roots the doctrine of glorification in the imago dei and includes a particularly helpful discussion of bodily resurrection in the Old Testament, to which the reviewer is sure he will return. Similarly, the New Testament material properly emphasises the Christological character in the hope of glorification.
The latter part of the volume explores four main ways in which the believer will be glorified. Barnes describes them as (variously) spiritual, physical, reputational and environmental glorification. In other words, glorification will involve spiritual renewal, bodily resurrection, vindication and life in a glorified world. Discussion is, throughout, rich in biblical support and practical in application. Certain passages of application are rhapsodic.
The theology of the Eastern Church has always emphasised the central place of the closely analogous idea of deification. Barnes might have benefited from an engagement with this tradition; not least because, if there is a weakness to his work, it is in its failure to address the question of how to prepare for glorification. Or put another way, if glorification is our destiny, how can we work towards it (and even, in measure, experience it) now.
Nevertheless, this is a valuable and well-priced book that correctly identifies a serious weakness in evangelical faith and practice and takes some sturdy steps along the way to rectify it. We are indebted to you, Tom!
The Rev. Dr. Stephen Dray,
Ferndale Baptist Church,
Southend-on-Sea
