This book examines the thinking of several Reformed theologians on theological issues that are, historically or by content, related to philosophy. Three Dutch authors from successive generations are considered in particular: Gisbertus Voetius (1589-1676), Petrus van Mastricht (1630-1706), and Anthonius Driessen (1684-1748). A diversity of issues in Christian doctrine is discussed. These include the relationship between theology and philosophy, creation, Divine providence, the human being, and Divine and natural law. By reconstructing the views of these three theologians, this book highlights similarities and differences within Reformed orthodoxy, both in doctrine and in relation to philosophy. The changes that thus become visible also suggest that biblical Christianity outlives the philosophical apparatus by whose assistence it is explained.

Gisbertus Voetius (1589-1676) on God, Freedom, and Contingency: An Early Modern Reformed Voice is the first study in English entirely devoted to the theology of Voetius, a leading figure of Reformed scholasticism. Andreas J. Beck examines Voetius's life and his concept of theology. Moreover, he provides a fresh and detailed analysis of Voetius's views on God, freedom, and contingency in the context of related early modern debates. Special attention is given to transconfessional relations and relevant backgrounds in patristic theology, medieval scholasticism, and the European Reformations. This study also advances our knowledge of scholarly practices in theological education at early modern Reformed universities in the Low Countries

Onder meer over het conflict Voetius/Descartes

The volume offers the first large-scale study of the teaching of Descartes' philosophy in the early modern age. Its twenty chapters explore the clash between Descartes' "new" philosophy and the established pedagogical practices and institutional concerns, as well as the various strategies employed by Descartes' supporters in order to communicate his ideas to their students. The volume considers a vast array of topics, sources, and institutions, across the borders of countries and confessions, both within and without the university setting (public conferences, private tutorials, distance learning by letter) and enables us thereby to reconsider from a fresh perspective the history of early modern philosophy and education.