Charles Finney
(1792-1875) was an American Presbyterian preacher known
for his revival services and extemporaneous preaching.
Systematic Theology is a collection of the lectures Finney gave
at
Oberlin College. They were later published in this volume for
distribution to the British public. Finney is known as a heretic in
many Christian circles, and Systematic Theology receives no lack
of
criticism. His theology of self-sanctification worries many staunch
Calvinists, and Systematic Theology perpetuates the
Calvinist/Armenian
debate. But the lectures are well thought out and address diverse
subjects - moral law, love, government, depravity, atonement,
justification, sanctification, election, perseverance of the saints, and
many others. Finney is revered by many and scorned by others, but his
Systematic Theology is a masterpiece of religious text and
should be
treasured. Important for both debate and development of faith, this
collection is unique and spirited.
