Dordt theology professor co-authors introductory reader on Reformed theologian Herman Bavinck

Dr. Gayle Doornbos, associate professor of theology at Dordt University, has co-authored The Essential Herman Bavinck: A Reader and Commentary with theologian N. Gray Sutanto. Published by Baker Academic, the volume introduces readers to the writings of Dutch Reformed theologian Herman Bavinck.

The volume gathers selections from across Bavinck's body of work, including Reformed Dogmatics as well as early and later writings that explore the relationship between Christian theology and every area of life. The editors provide introductions and commentary designed to help both students and general readers understand Bavinck's theological vision and its enduring significance.

Drawn to Bavinck's ability to remain deeply rooted in the Reformed tradition while engaging thoughtfully with the questions of his own time, Doornbos values his generous approach to theological dialogue. "Bavinck seeks to learn from those he disagrees with and always presents them in the best light possible,” she says. 

Through writing this book, Doornbos “came to a deeper appreciation of how attentive Bavinck was to contemporary questions and insights,” she says. 

“I think that this can be a strength of the Reformed tradition; it need not be afraid of reading widely or broadly, because it has a theological framework that is rich, deep, and broad enough to incorporate insights in faithful and enriching ways.”

Doornbos and Sutanto wrote the volume to serve as an accessible introduction for readers who may be encountering Bavinck for the first time. As interest in Bavinck has grown in recent years—particularly following the English translation of his major works—they saw an opportunity to create a resource that introduces readers to the breadth of his writings while encouraging further study.

"Our hope is that people will see this as a good onramp to deeper Bavinck studies," says Doornbos.

The themes of the book closely reflect Doornbos's work at Dordt University, where she teaches theology within the Reformed tradition. She believes Bavinck's example demonstrates that rigorous scholarship and faithful Christian living belong together. His writings model how Christians can engage in modern culture while remaining grounded in Scripture and the Reformed faith.

“For Bavinck, theology belonged in the university as a legitimate area of study,” explains Doornbos. “As such, he did not shy away from deep theological and philosophical thinking or writing.” 

“Bavinck has formed the way I approach theology and see the world as I in seek to know and love God more deeply in my scholarly work and teaching,” Doornbos adds. She will be using the reader in one of her classes this fall, and she “hopes that students will be formed in the same way!”

About Dordt University

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, alumni, and the broader community to work effectively toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life.

Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt offers undergraduate and graduate programs that help students live their faith in every area of life. Through rigorous learning, meaningful relationships, and whole-person formation, students gain the practical wisdom to serve God and neighbor through their work and in their communities. Dordt has been named among the nation's leading Christian universities by U.S. News & World Report, Niche, and other national publications.