The Theodicy of Peter Taylor Forsyth: A "Crucial" Justification of the Ways of God to Man

Description: The theodicy of the remarkable Scottish Congregationalist theologian Peter Taylor Forsyth has long been recognized as a vital and significant contribution to twentieth-century theology. Up until now however there has not been a substantial full-length treatment of Forsyths work on the problem of evil. The Theodicy of Peter Taylor Forsyth fills this lacuna by setting out in a fairly systematic and comprehensive manner Forsyths justification of God in the face of evil. In so doing it also illuminates several other related areas of his thought such as his epistemology and Christology as well as his understanding of sin the atonement providence divine passibility human origins and the God-world relationship. Bringing Forsyths approach to the subject into conversation with other prominent thinkers like Leibniz Dostoyevsky Camus Moltmann Hick Bauckham and Fiddes this book also suggests ways in which Forsyths justification of God contributes to the current state of Christian theodicy. It highlights Forsyths ability to integrate insights from different approaches even those that have hitherto generally been considered diametrically opposed notions. Forsyths theodicy therefore presents an integrative approach to the topic with every theme flowing from and returning to a clear center: the cross of Christ. As the book also makes clear Forsyth considers theodicy to be an immensely practical discipline with significant implications for human life. In every sense therefore it constitutes a crucial justification of the ways of God to humanity. Endorsements: Of all the theodicies published during World War I P. T. Forsyths is the bravest and most significant. As one not inclined to book-cover hyperbole I cordially welcome this book which breaks new ground in the treatment of this crucial theme. No future study of Forsyths theodicy will be complete if account is not taken of the contextually grounded bibliographically aware exposition so lucidly presented here. -Alan P F Sell Milton Keynes UK This valuable analysis of P. T. Forsyths work focuses on his significant 1916 wartime publication on theodicy. In doing so it also offers a clear and consistent account of his wider theological contribution through dealing with themes of divine grace the person and work of Christ secondary acts of divine judgment and universal human redemption. An informed and reflective study this will establish Dr. Leow as one of the leading interpreters of P. T. Forsyths work today. -David Fergusson University of Edinburgh About the Contributor(s): Theng Huat Leow is a Lecturer in Theology at Trinity Theological College Singapore.