The Lord Is Good

Studies in Christian Doctrine and Scripture

‘Taste and see that the Lord is good,’ the Psalmist writes (Psalm 34:8). And to those who called him good, Jesus said, ‘No one is good – except God alone’ (Mark 10:18).

Christopher Holmes explores the divine attribute of goodness by offering a theological interpretation of the Psalter and engaging with the church’s rich theological tradition, especially with the thought of Augustine and Aquinas. He contends that in the very depths of God’s being, God is goodness itself, and goodness is preeminent in God’s nature. Thus, he argues, God not only does good, as seen in the person and work of Jesus Christ, but also is good. Hence, the good that God does – and that God calls us to do – is anchored in the fullness of the good that God is.

Leading us on this journey through the Psalms and the church’s tradition, Holmes helps us to understand what it means to make this simple affirmation: the Lord is good.

‘Intellectually robust and theologically astute, this is a book that is also spiritually enriching and devotionally stimulating. Careful study of it will lead its readers to see hidden depths in the book of Psalms and, even more significantly, to encounter the God who is good.’ Derek Tidball, former Principal, London School of Theology

‘Crammed with suggestive ideas, well-resourced from the great tradition, and deeply edifying in tone and intent, this book reinstalls divine goodness at the centre of theological concerns.’ Fred Sanders, Professor of Theology, Biola University

‘Readers who desire an able guide through the terrain of classic Christian metaphysics, Barthian misgivings about this tradition, and theological interpretation will welcome this volume.’ Mark S. Gignilliat, Professor of Divinity, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University

‘Testifying to the goodness of God, this book places Holmes among the handful of living theologians whose books should be read by anyone doing Christian theology today.’ Matthew Levering, James N. and Mary D. Perry Jr. Chair of Theology, Mundelein Seminary