Person, Grace, and God (Sacra Doctrina)

Book Description

In this thoughtful exploration of Christian theology, Philip A. Rolnick examines one of faith's most fundamental concepts: what it means to be a person in relationship with the divine. Drawing from centuries of theological wisdom, he traces how understanding of personhood has evolved from ancient pre-Christian thought through pivotal church councils and influential thinkers like Augustine, Boethius, Richard of St. Victor, and Thomas Aquinas.

Rolnick brings both philosophical depth and historical perspective to this essential question, demonstrating how the concept of person remains central to Christian understanding. Rather than avoiding contemporary challenges, he directly engages with modern evolutionary biology and postmodern critiques that question traditional views of personhood. His approach reveals the significant contributions of neo-Darwinian research while thoughtfully interpreting biological findings in ways that align with Jesus' fundamental teachings about love.

This scholarly yet accessible work offers readers a bridge between ancient wisdom and contemporary knowledge. For those seeking to deepen their understanding of human nature within a Christian framework, Rolnick provides a nuanced perspective that honors both scientific discovery and theological tradition. The book invites readers to consider how concepts of grace, personhood, and divine relationship intersect in meaningful ways that speak to both intellectual inquiry and spiritual growth.

Through careful analysis spanning 270 pages, this volume serves as both historical survey and contemporary reflection on what makes us distinctly human in God's creation.