NT Wright on justification : faithfully embodying the reformed tradition of semper reformanda
Date
2013-02
Authors
Huggins, Jonathan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch University, Department of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology
Abstract
This article seeks to examine N.T. Wright’s theological contribution to the Reformed doctrine
of Justification, with a view toward arguing that he is an important interpreter for and from
the Reformed Tradition. An underlying question to be explored will concern what it means to
stand faithfully and critically within the Reformed Theological Tradition. Given the Tradition’s
emphases upon “sola scriptura,” and “semper reformanda,” can we welcome the contributions
and insights that Wright offers on the doctrine of justification? Or, must he be marginalized, at
best, or anathematized, at worst, for failing to conform to the standard Reformed formulations
found in our Confessions of faith? These questions are not easily answered because much
controversy has surrounded Wright’s statements concerning Justification – especially his
denial, or re-defining, of the necessity of “Imputation,” as historically understood within the
Tradition. As we will see below, many Reformed thinkers have written against Wright’s views
of Justification, often viewing him as the latest manifestation of what is sometimes called the
“New Perspective on Paul.” This recent criticism has questioned Wright’s theological orthodoxy
and compelled him to clarify his position in the light of the Reformed Tradition. However, Wright
claims to be a Reformed theologian in the sense that he has adopted the Reformers’ method,
even if not all of their conclusions. As we will see below, there are points of discontinuity with
parts of the Reformed tradition in Wright’s work. Yet, a close reading of his work also reveals
many points of continuity, and thus may warrant the claim that Wright is working within the
basic methodologies of the Reformed Tradition. If this is so, then Wright may be viewed as one
who stands both faithfully (or, at least reliably) and critically within the Tradition – even as he
proposes new interpretations of the New Testament and fresh articulations of Justification.
Description
Publication of this article was funded by the Stellenbosch University Open Access Fund.
The original publication is available at http://ngtt.journals.ac.za/pub
The original publication is available at http://ngtt.journals.ac.za/pub
Keywords
Justification (Christian theology) -- History of doctrines, Reformed Church -- Doctrines, Wright, N. T., Calvin, Jean, Edwards, James R.
Citation
Huggins, J. 2013. NT Wright on justification: Faithfully embodying the reformed tradition of semper reformanda?. Nederduitse Gereformeerde Teologiese Tydskrif, 53(3&4):145-159, doi:10.5952/53-3 & 4-257.