An Evaluation of Edward Heppenstall's Doctrine of Redemption

One of the major problems in the study of the doctrine of redemption is that it has been linked to the cross while overlooking its etiological and eschatological perspectives. This has caused many to dissociate creation and redemption, leading to the acceptance of an evolutionistic approach to theology, and redemption and eschatology, leading to the mitigation of the connection of the two in the New Testament. While other Christian traditions emphasize the atoning death of Christ, Adventist theology has tended to overemphasize its eschatological significance. Thus, in Adventism, there is need to present a more balanced view of redemption. Edward Heppenstall was chosen as the subject of this dissertation since he more comprehensively deals with this doctrine. Factors that shaped Heppenstall's particular understanding of redemption are presented in a brief biographical, historical, and theological overview in chapter 1. His view on the scope and the need of redemption, the nature of man, and sin are discussed in chapter 2. Chapters 3 through 6 encompass Heppenstall's scheme of redemption, namely: its promise, its act and results, and its work of judgment. Each chapter analyzes the way Heppenstall links God, sin, law and covenant, Christology, salvation, and eschatology to his general view of redemption. In chapter 7, a comparison of his understanding of redemption is made to the views of other Adventist writers and with E. G. White. The final chapter evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of Heppenstall's model for describing redemption. It was noted that he did not develop a biblical foundation to support his view of the "great controversy." However, it was found that this motif is a valid biblical model for understanding the doctrine, since it forms an adequate foundation for a more comprehensive view of redemption. In relationship to his theology of redemption, it was pointed out that he gave little attention to some aspects of anthropology, and ecclesiology. At the same time serious questions are raised concerning his understanding of some aspects of the doctrine of the sanctuary. Positively, Heppenstall introduced new aspects in the biblical concept of the covenant and reemphasized some neglected aspects in the understanding of law, Christology, soteriology, and the sanctuary doctrine.