Sanctification

'Allen delivers a work of classical Reformed theology. He irenically differentiates the Reformed position on sanctification from some Lutheran positions, through careful biblical exegesis and retrieval of Calvin, Augustine, Berkouwer, and others. From a more traditionally Reformed perspective, Allen here inherits the mantle of John Webster. As a Catholic, I am deeply grateful for Michael Allen’s vision, with the ecumenical conjunctions that it reveals.' * Matthew Levering, James N. and Mary D. Perry Jr. Chair of Theology, Mundelein Seminary *
'Here is learned and extensive dogmatic exposition in the grand old European academic style. Weaving together both biblical and systematic theological perspectives, Professor Michael Allen leads us, his students, in a genuine theological discussion rooted in wide reading and mature reflection. Sanctification thus points us beyond a bare textbook-style accumulation of information to the higher goal of a genuine knowledge of God and transformation into the image of Christ. A very worthy addition to what already promises to be an impressive series.' * Sinclair B. Ferguson, Chancellor’s Professor of Systematic Theology, Reformed Theological Seminary *
'Holiness is good news, Allen reminds us, for sanctification is all about God sharing his own holiness with us in Christ. As he unpacks this gospel of holiness, Allen presents a marvelous “minor dogmatics,” ranging through a variety of doctrines, and grounding our holiness in the one and only place where it must originate---the eternal being of God himself. Steeped within Reformed catholicity, Allen’s biblical retrieval draws from a wide range of sources: patristic, medieval, and modern. The result is an irenic and deeply thoughtful book.' * Hans Boersma, J. I. Packer Professor of Theology, Regent College *
'In Sanctification, Michael Allen presents a lucid dogmatic portrait of the glorious mystery of new life in Christ. Allen’s book offers a feast for readers to feed upon this truth. Framed in conversation with the best of contemporary scholarship, Allen brings together scriptural exegesis, patristic and Protestant commentary, and wide-ranging theological exposition. Sanctification is a model of biblical, Reformed catholicity, which both breaks new ground and retrieves insights from the past. Highly recommended for students, scholars, and others who hunger for a theological account of sanctification in Christ!' * J. Todd Billings, Gordon H. Girod Research Professor of Reformed Theology, Western Theological Seminary *
'Michael Allen believes that the gospel is large enough to cover not only the guilt but the dominion of sin. This volume gives further evidence of the author’s reliability as a faithful steward of the mysteries of God. Learn, mark and inwardly digest this rich feast.' * Michael Horton, J. Gresham Machen Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics Westminster Seminary California *
'One of the great strengths of Michael Allen’s work is that he resists the temptation of treating sanctification in isolation; instead, he calls attention to how this vital doctrine draws upon and informs a multitude of other doctrines. Consequently, Allen provides a rich and distinctive account of holiness that certainly deserves our attention and thanks.' * Kelly M. Kapic, professor of theological studies, Covenant College *