Adonis Vidu | Exploring the Doctrine of Inseparable Operations

In this engaging episode, we explore the intricate and profound world of Trinitarian theology with theologian Adonis Vidu. Join us as we explore the key themes and arguments from his latest book, The Same God Who Works All Things: Inseparable Operations in Trinitarian Theology (Eerdmans). Vidu passionately defends the doctrine of inseparable operations, which asserts that all actions of the Trinity are unified and indivisible. Through this doctrine, we gain a deeper understanding of the unity and distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Throughout our conversation, Vidu traces the development, challenges, and implications of inseparable operations from biblical foundations and patristic contributions to contemporary theological debates. We address various objections, particularly concerning the incarnation and atonement, and demonstrate how this doctrine can coherently explain complex theological concepts while preserving the unity and distinction within the Trinity.
Adonis Vidu serves as Andrew Mutch Distinguished Professor of Theology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where his research and teaching focus on the intersections of historical and contemporary theological thought. Vidu holds a Ph.D. in Theology and Religious Studies from King’s College London, and he has authored several influential works, including Atonement, Law, and Justice: The Cross in Historical and Cultural Contexts and the subject of this conversation, The Same God Who Works All Things: Inseparable Operations in Trinitarian Theology.
Watch or listen to gain invaluable insights from one of today’s leading theological minds as we explore the profound depths of Trinitarian theology and its relevance for contemporary Christian life and thought. Whether you’re a seasoned theologian or simply curious about the intricacies of faith, this episode promises to be both enlightening and thought-provoking.
00:00:07 Introduction
00:03:55 Introducing Inseparable Operations
00:08:40 Theological Grammar
00:14:10 Biblical Teaching on Inseparable Operations
00:18:41 The Patristic Tradition
00:22:19 The Rise and Decline of the Doctrine in History
00:32:49 Augustine and Aquinas
00:39:14 The Incarnation of the Son
00:43:14 The Person of the Son
00:50:46 The Atonement
00:56:41 The Holy Spirit
01:03:23 Our Experience of God in the Christian Life
01:12:23 Eastern Orthodoxy and Mysticism
01:18:00 Conclusion
This is Christ the Center episode 863 (www.reformedforum.org/ctc863)

[@redeemedzoomer6053]

One of the best episodes! Please do more on the Reformed view of various eastern doctrines

[@unexpectedTrajectory]

Thanks for this conversation. The explanation of inseparable operations in relation to the incarnation was helpful. As I understood it, the Son can be distinctly the Person incarnate because it is not an action of the Divine Nature but a relation of the Person (to the human nature.) The analogy of it being the Three who "clothe" but the One who is "clothed" was both beautiful and helpful.

[@Tyreemorris68]

I just bought this book not too long ago!

[@AJMacDonaldJr]

Good discussion! 😺

[@tabithadorcas7763]

Thanks for thinking episode! Yet another book I'll be adding to my list.

[@williamnathanael412]

Is this the first time I hear Aquinas presented positively in Reformed Forum? 😮
Love it!

[@glenclary3231]

Looking good Camden

[@CaseyCovenant]

Will his Systematic Theology be made available in English for us in the USA?

[@tabithadorcas7763]

He is in the U.S.A. per the program notes, and book by is published by Eerdmann.
(I hadn't made it to the last bit! I think you're referring to the systematic theology of Romanian Orthodox Church.)