Thomas F. Torrance and the Church Fathers: A Reformed Evangelical and Ecumenical Reconstruction of the Patristic Tradition

In this volume Jason Radcliff examines T. F. Torrances reading of the church fathers. Radcliff explores how Torrance reconstructs the patristic tradition producing a Reformed evangelical and ecumenical version of the Consensus Patrum (Consensus of the Fathers). This book investigates how Torrance uniquely understands the Fathers and the Reformers to be mutually informing and how as such his approach involves significant changes to both standard readings of the Fathers and Torrances own Reformed evangelical tradition. Torrances approach is distinctive in its Christocentric rootedness in the primary theme of the Nicene homoousion (of one essence [with the Father]) and its champion Athanasius of Alexandria. The book explores Torrances inherently broad ecclesiology and constructive achievements both of which contribute to his ongoing ecumenical relevance. This remarkably well-researched balanced and clearly written book is a presentation and review of Torrances imaginative reconstruction of the theology of the Greek Fathers in view of evangelical theology. In particular Radcliff rightly highlights Torrances reading of Athanasius of Alexandria and his doctrine of the homoousios. Not without insightful criticisms of Torrance Radcliffs stance is strongly appreciative. I recommend this study for both seasoned Torrance students and those who come new to his work. --Andrew Purves Jean and Nancy Davis Professor of Historical Theology Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Pittsburgh PA Dialogue between the Eastern Orthodox and the Reformed Protestant traditions was central to the life and work of T. F. Torrance. Jason Radcliff has now produced a much-needed overview of his extensive and intensive efforts in this area. Radcliff has a sure grasp not only of Torrance himself but also of the patristic sources he engaged. Radcliff also delves thoughtfully into current patristic scholarship in order to support and critique Torrances work. This is a judicious and careful piece of scholarship--one that is full of promise for the future of ecumenical theology. --George Hunsinger Hazel Thompson McCord Professor of Systematic Theology Princeton Theological Seminary Princeton NJ T. F. Torrances theology developed in large measure through conversation with the early church fathers especially Athanasius Cyril of Alexandria and Gregory Nazienzen. As such his theology provides an exercise both in retrieval and creative appropriation. Jason Radcliffs study now offers an invaluable commentary on this reading of early church thought. It is a welcome and significant contribution to the growing literature on Torrance. --David Fergusson Professor of Divinity and Principal of New College University of Edinburgh Scotland Jason Radcliff (PhD University of Edinburgh) teaches at The Stony Brook School in New York. He also serves as Assistant Editor for Participatio: The Journal of the Thomas F. Torrance Theological Fellowship.