A Trinitarian Theology of Law
Subtitle: In Conversation with Jürgen Moltmann, Oliver O'Donovan and Thomas Aquinas
Series: Paternoster Theological Monographs
Publisher: Authentic Media
Published: 2009
Place of publication: Milton Keynes
Number of pages: 262
ISBN-13: 9781842276358
Subjects: RELIGION; Christian Theology
First sentence: Joan Lockwood O’Donovan opens her Theology of Law and Authority in the English Reformation with the dramatic claim that ‘From a theological perspective, it is arguable that all public disagreement is about authority and law, divine and human, whatever may be the ostensible issues.’  If this is correct, then adopting a proper theological approach to the question of law is of fundamental importance.
Description: This book explores the neglected significance of the doctrine of the Trinity for the understanding of human law. Through interaction with the thought of Jürgen Moltmann, Oliver O'Donovan and Thomas Aquinas, it argues that human law is called to play a positive but limited role in maintaining "shallow justice" and relative peace. Human law is overshadowed by the work of the Son, included in the purposes of the Father, and used as an instrument by the Holy Spirit. However, the Spirit works in those who are in Christ to effect "deep justice", a work of sanctification which culminates in glorification - the experience of perfect, free, willing obedience in heaven. Thinking about law in the light of the Trinity enables us to understand its role, its purpose and its limits.
Table of contents: title: The Necessity of a Trinitarian Theology of Law
pagenum: 1; title: The Social Trinitarianism of Jürgen Moltmann
pagenum: 22; title: Oliver O'Donovan: Political Authority in the Light of the Ascended Christ
pagenum: 87; title: Thomas Aquinas's Theology of the Holy Spirit as the New Law
pagenum: 152; title: Human Law in relation to the Work of the Son and the Spirit
pagenum: 208; title: Conclusion
pagenum: 235