Christians confess that God calls people to salvation. Reformed Christians, in particular, believe this is an effectual calling, meaning that God sovereignly brings about salvation apart from human works. But in what sense does God actually 'call' us? Does a doctrine of effectual calling turn people into machines that lack any personal agency?
In this lucidly written and carefully researched study, Jonathan Hoglund provides a constructive treatment of effectual calling that respects both the Reformed tradition and non-Reformed critiques, while subjecting the doctrine to a fresh reading of Scripture with special attention given to the letters of Paul. Hoglund interprets divine calling to salvation as an act of triune rhetoric, in which Father, Son, and Holy Spirit work in a personal way to communicate new life. By bringing together theological exegesis, rhetorical theory, dogmatic reflection, and historical inquiry, Called by Triune Grace proves to be a feast—not only for the mind, but also for the spirit.
Studies in Christian Doctrine and Scripture, edited by Daniel J. Treier and Kevin J. Vanhoozer, promotes evangelical contributions to systematic theology, seeking fresh understanding of Christian doctrine through creatively faithful engagement with Scripture in dialogue with church.
Reviews
"Jonathan Hoglund's account of the effectual call is deeply engaged with Scripture, respectful of various theological traditions, and sensitive to the doctrine's complexities. The treatment of the effectual call's content is particularly insightful. This book calls each of us to hear again the Word of the triune God, by the Spirit, that Jesus is our saving Lord." - Daniel J. Treier, Blanchard Professor of Theology, Wheaton College Graduate School
"Jonathan Hoglund presents an exegetically rigorous and historically informed case for refining the church's understanding of the doctrine of effectual calling. He meticulously explores the various biblical metaphors that reveal the manner by which the triune God calls sinners to salvation. One need not agree with every conclusion in order to benefit from this provocative study. Anyone who seeks a deeper understanding of this wonderful doctrine should definitely consult this book with great profit." - J. V. Fesko, academic dean and professor of systematic and historical theology, Westminster Seminary California
"Hoglund's work on the divine call is an elegant and richly informed study of the doctrine. He mines biblical exegesis, historical theology, and systematics in this profound work. At the same time, he construes God's call in terms of divine rhetoric. Hoglund's work represents an excellent example of theological interpretation that marries biblical exegesis and systematic reflection." - Thomas R. Schreiner, James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation, associate dean, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky
"Jonathan Hoglund's book on effectual calling is very welcome for three reasons. First, it tackles a theological issue that has been relatively neglected in recent study. Second, it is a model of theological method, combining effectively careful exegesis of the Scriptures, insights from the history of discussion, and doctrinal considerations. Finally, the focus on divine speech provides a way to affirm God's initiative in the call to salvation without obscuring the personal relationships between Creator and created." - Douglas J. Moo, Wessner Chair of Biblical Studies, Wheaton College, chair, Committee on Bible Translation
Jonathan Hoglund (PhD, Wheaton College) serves with Training Leaders International to strengthen theological education among evangelical churches in Southeast Asia. He previously served as lecturer and academic dean in Ukraine with SEND International. He lives in Southeast Asia with his wife and three children.
