Dictionary of Latin and Greek Theological Terms: Drawn Principally from Protestant Scholastic Theology

The alphabetical Dictionary of Theological Terms is a rare modern classic, and a reliable barometer, widely portrayed as a lexical, non-technical tool for those interested in theology dating back to the Reformation era. Its principal scope is also its primary appeal as it is most interested in historical vocabulary that issued in theological codifications that were precise and dogmatic, and predominantly loan words that were transliterated directly from the Latin or Greek into later English formulations. It also serves as a basic theological cross-reference work. Church history is important, especially to Reformed theology. This work brings together the major doctrinal words and definitions drawn from the original languages in which the New Testament was written in, therefore settling on the accepted and sure findings of orthodox theologians in the church's service who preferred to work and were skilled in those two languages. Professor Muller seeks to collate and perpetuate as trustworthy those interpretations that were transmitted faithfully. This dictionary also submits the essential truth that what was at stake was often forged in disputation, at times involving minutiae of grammatical differences or affected meanings, which went on to establish themselves as distinctly heterodox. 'media' (given or received means): in the justification of the sinner, the means of grace given by God, Word and sacrament, as distinct from faith, the medium or receiving means. (pg 187) Surely a redemptive word affected to a large degree through its common association with modern secular means!

Muller's dictionary is a tremendous work and tool for those who need or desire to know what all of those italicized words really mean. First published in 1985, my edition is from 2006 and says it is the seventh printing. There are (many) reasons for this. First, Muller's preface provides a helpful bibliographical list for further reading. This is easily overlooked. Furthermore, each entry is not limited to a mere definition but provides context to each term. Muller even adds historical examples to help connect the word to more concrete ideas. Some entries are only a few sentences, whereas others occupy a few pages (e.g. "persona"). There is even an index that allows the reader to look up English words/phrases and points you to the correct Latin or Greek word. As Muller states, "The object of this volume is to provide an introductory theological vocabulary which will help students to overcome the difficulties inherent in current English-language works that use Latin and Greek terms and even to move somewhat beyond the vocabulary of those works" (9). There is a noted limitation to this reference tool: as the subtitle explains, these terms are mostly drawn from Protestant Scholastic Theology. Nevertheless, this is a valuable tool and worth the investment.

This is one of the most helpful tools in my library. Muller defines key Latin theological terms that you will read in key importantant works of dogmatics. He doesn't just give the simply definition, but also writes about its historical significance in the development in the history of doctrine. At the end of entry Muller gives significant cross-references of other Latin terms. This work opens up the rich history of thought in the church and is easily understood. This is a great tool for any student of theology, layman or pastor. You don't need to know Latin to profit by this book. I highly recommend this book!

Want to know what those technical words of Greek and Latin are? Tired of having terms tossed around and not knowing what they are? This will definitely help! A very handy resource for understanding more advanced theological writings and discussions.Written from an Protestant point of view, it also includes a gracious comparison with differing definitions and doctrinal view points.