Jonathan Hoglund - Called by Triune Grace: Divine Rhetoric and the Effectual Call

A project that positions Gods action as communicative and dialogical must acknowledge how the same process was at work in its creation. I note below with Augustine that when Christ promises to speak through those handed over to martyrdom he also promises to do the same for those who hand over Gods Word to his people. That passing on comes about in various ways, not all of which are intended or planned. Nevertheless, I give thanks to God for the support, encouragement and influence of many people who handed over an appropriate word in the dialogical process of this book.

Kevin Vanhoozer provided the initial stimulus for this project in response to my study of the quote by Irenaeus above. He graciously continued as my supervisor despite his move away from Wheaton College. In addition to his invaluable contribution to this project at every stage, he has shown me what it means to have an insatiable interest in the world and in other people. For his careful input and consistent example I am very grateful. Daniel Treier has been an example to me as an instructor and scholar. His probing questions to me and to others have been a great stimulus toward rigorous thought. His diligence and thoughtfulness about all aspects of education continue to influence my ideals.

I am indebted to numerous scholars for interaction with versions of several chapters, including Albert Gootjes, Doug Moo, Nicholas Perrin and Kevin Hector. I was given new questions and directions through conversations with Eric Johnson, David Morlan, Henk van den Belt, Doug Sweeney, Matthew Barrett, Beth Jones and J. V. Fesko. I especially appreciate the feedback of the editorial board for the Studies in Christian Doctrine and Scripture series, who helped focus the revised version.

The book took form as a PhD dissertation at Wheaton College. In addition to class seminars and colloquia together, I am thankful to colleagues who read and discussed various stages of this project, including Dan Brendsel, Robbie Crouse, James Gordon, Matthew Patton and Ashish Varma. Jordan Barrett, Jeremy Treat and Hank Voss helped to fine tune my research proposal at its outset. Offhand comments from Drew Burlingame and Carmen Imes served as catalysts for further refinement.

Finally, I thank my wife, Andrea, who has been the biggest supporter of this project while also offering some of its most poignant criticisms. Her sacrifice of time and energy to free me for this task is invaluable. That we can work together for the sake of our union, for our family and for Christs kingdom is the greatest joy of my life.