God in Our Nature

Arguably the leading Scottish theologian of the nineteenth century, John McLeod Campbell's theology is much criticized and often misunderstood. Previous accounts have tended to overlook both his sermons and his Christology. This reassessment of his thought breaks new ground by offering a detailed study of his sermons and by identifying the distinctive Christology which contributes to a clearer understanding of his doctrine of atonement. Drawing upon the full range of Campbell's work, God in our Nature brings to light a trinitarian theologian whose pilgrimage represents a journey within evangelicalism rather than a departure from the evangelical fold. ""Peter Stevenson carefully places McLeod Campbell in his pastoral, ecclesiastical, and theological context; traces his relations with Thomas Erskine of Linlathen and others; and judiciously appraises Campbell's doctrinal position and the verdicts passed upon it by contemporaries and later interpreters. Since the doctrines in question drive to the heart of Christian belief, this book is more than a contribution to historical theology. It is a stimulus to current theological debate and homiletic practice, and as such it deserves to be widely read."" –Alan P. F. Sell, Acadia University Divinity College ""Those who know Campbell from The Nature of the Atonement will welcome Dr. Stevenson's carefully researched work that sets his book in the wider context of his seminal life and ministry."" –Canon Tom Smail, London ""This book offers a perceptive account of Campbell's theology as illuminated by his largely neglected sermons, and traces the early influences upon his career. It is sure to become a standard resource."" –Murray Rae, University of Otaga ""The great value of Peter Stevenson's study is that he shows that behind Campbell's misunderstood doctrine of atonement is a failure to understand his wonderful emphasis on the Triune God of grace, the Incarnation, the Sole Priesthood of Christ, union with Christ, the primacy of grace over law. This he does by a thorough examination of Campbell's earlier sermons, and the firm biblical foundation for his critique. This is so important today, where we face so much legalistic religion, and a loss of the centrality of Christ in our place–the ground of joyful assurance."" –The late Revd. Professor James B. Torrance, formerly Professor of Systematic Theology, University of Aberdeen As Director of Training at Spurgeon's College in London, Peter Stevenson works closely with students preparing for various forms of Christian ministry. Before joining the staff of Spurgeon's in 1995 he had served for seventeen years as a Baptist minister in Bedford, Shirley (Solihull), and in London.