Systematic Theology (2 Volume Set)

Chafer's Systematic Theology is truly a monumental and deeply thorough treatment of theology in the field of systematics. I began reading this work about three years ago and have benefitted so much from it. I would have to agree with the previous Dallas grad, that though Chafer's work is still the 'Dispensational Standard' it does have its moments of sheer brilliance and some of eisegesis. Like all works of such depth and length, there are major high points and low points in the work. Briefly, I will speak a little about both. The best areas are found in the study of Prolegomena (Study Prior to the Task of Theology), Angelology (Angels), Harmartiology (Sin), and, yes, Eschatology (End Times). His Prolegomena is simply superb, I love his thorough treatment and he quotes quite often from another giant in the field during his time, B.B. Warfield. It is clear that though he and Warfield disagreed on the Doctrines of Grace (somewhat), and the Sanctification of the Christian, they most definitely did not disagree on Bibliology and all that it means to the Evangelical community. His treatment of Angelology has more depth than the normal Systematic Theology gives, excellent treatment here. His excellent work is also shown in his book 'Satan' from a much earlier period in his life, a preparation period in his thinking on the subject. His Doctrine of Sin is very good and works closely with that of the Reformed views on depravity. One must be honest that His explanation of 'depravity' does not mean that a person is a spiritually immovable 'rock' that has no spiritual sensitivity. The charges of Arminianism and 'Semi-Pelagianism' are unwarranted and irresponsible. Chafer, throughout his systematic work, distances himself from both of these positions. It has become all too common for the Reformed to label people like this instead of express clearly the man's views. If one must 'label' him, we would say he is 'Semi-Augustinian' not 'Semi-Pelagian' (in accord with the Synod of Orange, 529 AD) and deeply orthodox. Chafer simply believed there was a genuiness to the call to believe in the Savior, though He holds to the work of 'irresistible grace' in some manner. He stresses more the side of the human response of faith, with the background/foundation in the work of God's grace, than the Reformed community would like here. This is a more honest treatment of Chafer, both in the Doctrine of Sin and His Doctrines on Salvation. Lastly, Eschatology is strong not because of its common applications to the End Times from the Dispensational Hermeneutic (Historical-Grammatical), but because of the place Chafer gives it in his overall Systematic Theology. In his Prolegomena, Chafer explains how (during his time) there is a great lack of focus on the study of eschatology. Chafer meant to remedy this and the movement he so popularized and systematized (Dispensationalism) has done so, much to the disdain of many. Though I believe Chafer's views to be somewhat dated (at times

These eight books have done more to impact modern theology--especially in America--that just about any out there. While dispensationalism existed before Chafer, and though it has been refined sense his day (much to the chagrin of some!), this work is a must-read for anyone who wants to interact honestly with the position. Positively, it is very well written. It is elegant, and the language at times is exalted. Chafer's passion for his subject drips from the pages, as does his distain for views he deems heretical. Further, it is thorough. Even today nothing has been written to match its scope and depth, and for this one thing alone, the books are worth their price. Finally, it is an excellent presentation of dispensationalism as a whole. There is little by way of "sloganeering" and still fewer unexplained assumptions. Thus, at the end of any given discussion, one can assess whether he agrees or disagrees with Chafer and be able to explain why, if he so chooses. The negative is not enough to warrant the loss of the fifth star, and it is only this: Chafer perhaps holds the discipline of systematic theology slightly higher than it deserves. By this, I mean that he is willing to submit the text to his theology, which can quickly lead to eisogesis. I am a firm believer that exegesis comes before theology, and on this point, Chafer may find himself in error. But any such examples of this are rare indeed; the only example that immediately comes to mind is his discussion on Eph. 2:8-10 and election. Read Kaiser's _Toward an Exegetical Theology_ for a more solid approach on this. So, all in all, I highly recommend this to anyone who wants to better understand dispensationalism. There are fewer clearer articulations, and certainly none more influential. Consider this a primary source! (Note: I consider myself a little more dispensational that Chafer himself in that I take several passages more literally than does he, and likewise, more "free grace"--a la Bing, Hixon, Hodges, etc.--so while I have a deep apprecation for Chafer and recognize my roots there, I am not in full agreement with all of his work.)

Bought the set in about the third year I was a Christian. Took me a couple of years to read them all but it was and is, nearly 50 years later, the foundation for my whole Chrisian life. For many years my wife and I had a college group at church and I sold about ten sets a year, Today I hear raves from them about how Chafer's changed their lives. By all means get a set!! Robert Seelye, La Habra CA.

To be quite frank with you, I was simply going to come online and recommend that you do not buy the abridged version, but make certain that you are getting the full, unabridged 4 volume set. However, I was surprised at reading one review which makes a comparison to Monty Python. That reviewer also suggested that Chafer's approach was for a believer to check their mind at the door of a church before entering. I must admit, I have no idea where this person is coming from. Chafer has one of the most careful, logical and systematic approaches to theology that I have ever read (and I have a huge library). I know of several pastors whose ministry was changed profoundly because of this one book. There is nothing anti-intellectual about Chafer's approach; there is nothing which is dumbed-down. Bear in mind, this is a 4 volume set. My abridged version is about 1000 pages. In particular, Chafer's approach to the Angelic Conflict is exemplary. I have only one criticism, and that is with the abridged version: somethimes, a point will be made which is true, but the Scripture quoted is not directly on point. I do not know if that is the fault of Chafer or the fault of the abridged text. My recommendation is, if you are going to own just one book (or set of books) which cover nearly the entire realm of doctrine, this should be it.

Chafer's eight volume Systematic Theology is skillfully written from a premillinnial, dispensational view. He not only beautilfully covers all the disciplines from Theology Proper to Eschatology, but also the various uses of the word "theology" as well as the eight Biblical Covenants and the Dispensations. It is a comprehensive work on each topic but not written in a lofty manner which would be tedious for the reader. Chafer has made the study of Systematic Theology alive and exciting.