A Theological Retrieval of Stephen Charnock's Discourse of Divine Holiness
What God’s holiness reveals about evil
The research by theologian Markus Holmbom shows that God’s holiness is more than a moral concept. By revisiting the work of seventeenth-century theologian Stephen Charnock, he offers a new theological perspective on God’s nature and the problem of evil.
‘Holiness is often treated in theology primarily as a moral concept: God’s perfect goodness. My research argues that holiness is also an ontological category, meaning that it expresses something about God’s very being,’ says Holmbom.
By analysing Charnock’s writings in their historical context and developing his ideas theologically, Holmbom argues that holiness refers not only to God’s moral perfection, but also to something deeper about who God is.
‘Holiness expresses God’s unique way of being: the fullness of God’s life that is entirely distinct from everything else and not dependent on anything outside himself,’ he explains. ‘This helps to explain how Christians can speak of God as both one and yet marked by distinction within God’s own life. It also sheds light on how God’s glory is revealed and understood through his holiness.’
Problem of evil
The research also addresses the problem of evil. ‘Evil does not come from God, but its existence can still be understood in relation to the way God ultimately reveals the fullness of his holiness and glory,’ says Holmbom.
Practical Relevance
Holmbom’s research brings together historical and contemporary theological thought with a coherent biblical account of holiness. According to him, this also has practical implications.
‘It can help Christians understand holiness not only in moral terms, but as reflecting God’s distinct, life-giving character in everyday life. That makes the study relevant not only for theologians, but also for pastors, teachers and anyone interested in spiritual formation, preaching and personal reflection.’
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