Dan Ragusa introduces us to the theological method of Petrus Van Mastricht, Dutch Reformed theologian, who maintained consistent Reformed orthodoxy against Cartesian influences. Van Mastricht wrote a polemic against Balthasar Bekker, a critic of paganism but a proponent of Cartesianism. In his polemic, Van Mastricht addresses the issue of Scriptural authority, theological method, and the proper end toward which all theologians and philosophers must be directed: worship of the one, true, and living God.
Dan Ragusa is a PhD student at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Readings
- Daniel Ragusa, “Beginning with Scripture, Ending with Worship: An Analysis of Petrus van Mastricht’s Polemic against Balthasar Bekker“
- Petrus van Mastricht, Theoretical-Practical Theology Volume 1: Prolegomena
- Adriaan C. Neele, The Art of Living to God
Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa
Christ the Center focuses on Reformed Christian theology. In each episode a group of informed panelists discusses important issues in order to encourage critical thinking and a better understanding of Reformed doctrine with a view toward godly living. Browse more episodes from this program or subscribe to the podcast feed.
