Three Most Influential Theologians

The theological landscape in our country is rapidly shifting.

The mainline is continuing its slow journey toward total apostasy. Confessional churches, particularly those stressing the necessity of God-centered doctrine, worship, and life and the value of history, are flourishing. Broad evangelicalism (basic, but undeveloped orthodoxy) seems to be reaching a watershed moment, with some sliding toward apostasy and others thirsting after the historic doctrines of the Christian faith, guarded most carefully by the Reformed and Confessional churches.

There is much discussion over what has precipitated the great surge of the "Young, Restless, and Reformed" movement in denominations across the country. Having addressed that issue on this blog before, I think it is also important to consider those most influential upon me. It does us well to identify these figures, as we are subsequently encouraged to read more of their books, listen to more of their sermons, and consider what it is about Christ's work in and through them that we are most attracted to.

Here are the three most important (contemporary) theologians in my life:

1) Dr. Michael Horton (Systematic Theology, Westminster Seminary California)

From my experience in a number of broad evangelical circles both in Northern Virginia and in the chaplaincy, it would seem that Horton has wrested the mantle of greatest Reformed theologian of our day from R.C. Sproul. White Horse Inn, a nationally-syndicated radio program, has become the successor in many ways to Ligonier. He is widely respected across the broad spectrum of the academy because of his top-flight intellect, steadfast orthodoxy, and charity toward opponents. His dozens of books, many of which have been incredibly popular, also show that he enjoys a similar sway over the more simple-minded, like me!

2) Dr. David Van Drunen (Systematic Theology, Westminster Seminary California)

Van Drunen is much less known than Horton, but has made a substantial impact on me as well, especially as it pertains to reflections on the Church and state. With my political background, I appreciate thoughtful scholars in this field. Van Drunen very capably carries on the legacy of J. Gresham Machen in defending the spirituality of the Church and drawing careful lines between the Christian's calling as a citizen of Heaven and a citizen of this world.

3) Rev. Mark Driscoll (Pastor, Mars Hill Church, Seattle, WA)

Knowing how controversial Driscoll has become, I must first state emphatically that I take strong exception to a number of his views. I disagree with his ecclesiology (view of the Church), his view on the sacraments, and his belief in continuing revelation. I have also been disappointed by a number of uncharitable and ethically ambiguous decisions he has made. All that said, I really appreciate what might be called Driscoll's "pastoral theology." His preaching style is rich, clear, and blunt. There is a tendency among preachers (including myself) to preach to the air, not to hearts. Driscoll engages with the hearers of the Word, so that that truth of God's Word is brought to bear with intimacy and accessibility upon the hearts of God's people.

Who are three influential theologians in your own life?