Confessions meme

Here's my contribution to the theological confessions "meme":

I confess that I have not yet read Calvin's Institutes all the way though. But I'm making a concerted effort to read a bit most days and I'm just about to start Book IV. I've really enjoyed the exercise. The final chapter in Book III on the resurrection was outstanding.

I confess that Reformed systematic theology is in vital need of reformation. Systematics should arise from exegesis, be informed by biblical theology and be able to face the challenges of the contemporary world. Both Berkhof and Reymond fail in this regard.

I confess that Kevin Vanhoozer's The Drama of Doctrine is the most captivating and stimulating work of theology that I have read in ages.

I confess that Donald Macleod's books on the person and work of Christ have moved me very deeply. (The Person of Christ, IVP & From Glory to Golgotha, Christian Focus).

I confess that I enjoy reading N.T. Wright. His The Resurrection of the Son of God is just brilliant. But I do not agree with the new perspective on Paul.

I confess that when it comes to Karl Barth, I can't see what all the fuss is about. He had a defective view of biblical revelation, Christ's human nature, election etc. etc. His Church Dogmatics is mind-numbingly long. I find interacting with Barth-influenced bloggers a bit frustrating because they tend to dismiss all appeals to Scripture as "proof texting".

I confess that I am more and more convinced that Reformed theology is faithful to Scripture.

I confess that penal substitution is the key to understanding the cross of Christ.

I confess that I find it a bit embarrassing when I meet people in real life who have read my blog.