Seeing God
Hans Boersma's comprehensive theological study emerges from his conviction that modern Christianity has lost touch with one of its most central promises: the direct vision of God. Writing as an Anglican theologian concerned about the church's drift toward purely ethical or therapeutic understandings of faith, Boersma argues that recovering the doctrine of the beatific vision is essential for restoring Christianity's supernatural character and ultimate purpose.
Boersma traces the development of beatific vision theology from its biblical roots through the church fathers, medieval scholastics, and into modern thought. He demonstrates how figures from Augustine to Aquinas understood the direct sight of God's essence as both humanity's highest calling and final destination. The work carefully examines how this vision relates to grace and nature, showing that the beatific vision requires supernatural elevation beyond human capacity while fulfilling humanity's deepest longing. Boersma engages seriously with objections from Reformed theology about natural desire for the supernatural, arguing for a participatory understanding that maintains both divine transcendence and genuine human fulfillment in God.
The book has established itself as a significant contribution to contemporary discussions about nature and grace, particularly within Reformed and Anglican circles grappling with questions of human destiny and divine transcendence. Boersma's work connects historical theology with pressing contemporary concerns about secularization and the loss of transcendent purpose in Christian life. His argument for recovering beatific vision theology speaks to broader movements seeking to restore mystery and supernatural hope to Christian faith.
Who should read this: Theologians, pastors, and educated lay readers interested in classical Christian teaching about human destiny and the vision of God. This work will particularly benefit those in Reformed and Anglican traditions wrestling with questions about nature, grace, and ultimate human fulfillment, though readers seeking purely devotional material may find its academic approach less immediately accessible.