New Books in Intellectual History
Richard Alfred Muller, "Predestination in Early Modern Reformed Theology" (Reformation Heritage Books, 2024)
Apr 11, 2025
In this discussion, Dr. Richard A. Muller, a leading scholar of historical theology, unpacks the complexities of predestination in Reformed thought. He challenges simplified interpretations of Calvin, revealing how his 'Institutes' were shaped by collaborative theological dialogue. Muller delves into the evolution of predestination through figures like Franciscus Junius, highlighting the nuanced debates between supralapsarian and infralapsarian views. His journey reflects the intricate development of this controversial doctrine in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
31:20
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Quick takeaways
- Richard A. Muller emphasizes that predestination should be understood as part of a broader theological interplay rather than an isolated doctrine.
- The podcast highlights the importance of contextual reading of early modern theologians to appreciate the nuances in their arguments and contributions.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Predestination in Reformed Theology
The discussion centers on the historical development of the doctrine of predestination within early modern Reformed theology, highlighting key figures and their contributions. Richard A. Muller emphasizes that predestination, while a significant doctrine, is one of several interconnected beliefs rather than a standalone principle. He notes that this perspective is illustrated through the variations in how different theologians, such as John Calvin and Theodore Beza, positioned the concept within their broader theological frameworks. By examining the contexts and editorial choices that informed the placement of the doctrine, Muller argues for a deeper understanding of its role in the theological landscape of the time.
