In this concise and accessible introduction, Paul Helm outlines for students and interested readers the doctrine of divine providence. Unlike many doctrinal treatments, his approach is not historically oriented. Instead Helm focuses on the underlying metaphysical and moral aspects of God's providence, paying particular attention to the ideas of divine control, providence and evil, and the role of prayer in relationship to providence.

Table of Contents:

1. Orientation
2. Providence: Risky or Risk-Free?
3. The Theological Framework
4. Providence in Creation, Fall and Redemption
5. Providence and Guidance
6. Prayer and Providence
7. Providence and Accountability
8. Providence and Evil
9. Reckoning with Providence

About the Author

Paul Helm is a teaching fellow at Regent College, Vancouver, where he was previously the J. I. Packer Professor of Philosophical Theology. Before going to Regent he was professor of history and philosophy of religion at King's College in London. His books include Eternal God; The Providence of God; Faith with Reason; John Calvin's Ideas; and John Calvin: A Guide for the Perplexed.

Endorsements

"Read everything in the IVP Contours of Theology series. Pure gold." — Kevin DeYoung, senior pastor at University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan

"This series has been around for over a decade now and has established itself as providing learned yet accessible treatments of key topics in systematic theology. The authors are not only fine theological thinkers, they are also passionate churchmen with a love for God's people and a desire to see the church grow in her knowledge of grace. Each volume blends exegesis, theological synthesis and judicious dialogue with the history of theology to provide an excellent treatment of the chosen topic. Highly recommended for thoughtful Christians who want to deepen their knowledge of Christian theology." — Carl R. Trueman, Paul Woolley Professor of Church History, Westminster Theological Seminary