In Chronological Order
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Subsections
Every Reformed Systematic Online in English by Author
Reformed Systematics in Latin (English titles & tables of contents)
Reformed Baptist Systematics
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Order of Contents
Systematic Anthologies 2
Series of Systematic Volumes 3
ed. Kidd
Luther a Brakel
Melancthon Howe The Fundamentals
Zwingli Willard Clark, D.
Hamilton Witsius Warfield, B.B.
Farel Beveridge Webb, R.
Rhegius Gastrell Machen, J.
Bucer Halyburton Boettner, L.
a Lasco Edwards, John Lecerf, A.
Calvin Vanderkemp Kersten, G.H.
Viret Doutrin Berkouwer, G.C.
Bullinger Pictet Berkhof, L.
Musculus Wishart Niesel
Vermigli Hellenbroek Henry, C.
Beza Boston Buswell
Becon Ridgley Kuiper, R.B.
Bunny Crawford Packer, J.I.
Bres Wyttenbach Hoeksema
Marbeck Doddridge Murray, J.
Olevian Erskine, R. Ferguson, S.
Gifford Edwards, Jonathan Boice, J.M.
Prime De Ronde Muller, R.
DeLaune Riccaltoun Finlayson, R.A.
Finch de Moor Smith, M.
11 Confessions Comrie Bahnsen, G.
Zanchi Brown, of Haddington Sproul, R.C.
Ursinus Venema Reymond, R.
Geneva Hopkins
Bastingius Witherspoon
Virel
Piscator
Rollock
Perkins Mather Rushdoony
Bucanus Smith, S. Culver
Cartwright Dwight Cheung, V.
Keckermann Alexander, A.A. Van Genderen
Polanus Hill Kelly, D.
Trelcatius Smith Gamble, R.
Parr Dick Horton, M.
Rogers Belfrage Beeke, J.
Baynes Hodge, C. Bray, G.
Yates Chalmers Frame, J.
Mayer Bogue Letham, R.
Ames Woods
Robinson Wardlaw
Downame Presbytery of Nova Scotia
Polyander Hodge, A.A.
Andrewes Cunningham
Wolleb Heppe
Ball Breckinridge
Davenant van Oosterzee
Kellet Thornwell
Stoughton Dabney
Rutherford Plumer
Davenport Smith, H.B.
Bernard Shedd
Macovius Girardeau
Ussher Schaff
Roberts Orr
Fisher Denny
Collier Vos, G.
Fenner Bavinck
Martindale Macpherson
Binning Kuyper, A.
Lyford
Dury
Leigh
Norton
van Mastricht
Jeanes
Arrowsmith
Clarke
Lawson
Pearson
Dickson
Stone
Voetius
Ambrose
Gouge
Baxter
Polhill
Rijssen
Gale
Vincent
Turretin
Watson
Puritan Sermons
Nicholson
Leighton
Anon.
Flavel
Bates
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About this Collection
This page intendbs to be a reasonably comprehensive collection of the major reformed systematic theologies (in a broad sense) in English since the Reformation that are online. If this collection of 185+ authors is a bit over-whelming for your tastes, see some of our recommendations on what systematic theologies to start with on our Systematic Theology page.
Amongst many other things this collection is valuable for, if you are interested in a particular doctrine of the Christian faith (the call of the gospel, the divine attributes, eschatology, etc), this page allows you to see what various theologians through history have said about it by looking in the appropriate place in their systematic works.
Works of a systematic nature, though they would not narrowly be called systematic theologies, have been included in this collection. Systematic Theology, as the modern notion of systematic theology, and true systematic theologies in English, only really came into their modern form beginning in the 1800’s (for early examples see Moses Mather, Marcus Smith, John Dick, etc.). Before that, the main teachings of the Christian faith set in systematic form, in English, were mainly found in the generas of common places, lengthy confessions, detailed catechisms, institutes, compendiums, bodies of divinity, summaries and other treatises, though none of these generas are exactly of the same nature as a modern systematic theology.
Where an author has written a major systematic work, his other works of a doctrinal nature have been attempted to be collected so that more detailed treatments of specific topics might be captured, and that his thought on such teachings may be able to be unearthed. Older figures especially have come under this focus so as to provide collections of their doctrinal works in English which are not otherwise so easily gathered.
Where an author has not written a major systematic work, and yet has written on most doctrines of the Christian faith in separate volumes, those volumes and pieces have attempted to be included as well.
A few of the authors below (usually noted) are not recommended. They are included for historical and comparative interest.
For additional works to consult, see some of the numerous lengthy (50-200 page) creeds and confessions in James Dennison’s Reformed Confessions of the 16th & 17th Centuries, 4 vols. Buy (RHB) some of which are virtually systematic theologies.
Other works that broadly fall in the systematic category are commentaries on confessions and catechisms. See All of the Commentaries on the Westminster Confession of Faith, on the Shorter Catechism, on the Larger Catechism, and on the Confession and Catechisms. Some commentaries on other confessions and catechisms besides Westminster (mainly before the 1700’s) have been included on this page as well, though we hope to make more comprehensive collections of such on their own webpages in the future. Historical theologies also often cover most of the gamut of theology; only a few have been included here.
Sometimes additional copies of these works can be found on PRDL & EEBO. If you would like to suggest works to be added to this page, please contact us through Suggest Improvements.
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Historic, Reformed, Systematic Anthologies 2
ed. Johnson, William & John Leith – Reformed Reader: A Sourcebook in Christian Theology: Volume 1: Classical Beginnings, 1519-1799 Buy (Westminster John Knox Press, 1993) 425 pp. ToC
This volume, as it is an anthology for early Reformed Theology laid out in systematic form (some of which selections are not easily available elsewhere), is great. Volume 2 ToC, from 1800 to the modern day, is largely a collection of liberal ambiguity and is not worthy your time or money. The publisher is liberal.
ed. Hindson, Edward – Introduction to Puritan Theology: a Reader (Canon Press / Baker, 1976) 280 pp. ToC Biblio Foreward by J.I. Packer; dedicated to John Gerstner
This is laid out in systematic form, hitting the major topics of a systematic theology. Hindson (b. 1942) has multiple degrees and has been a professor at Liberty University (VA).
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Series of Systematic Volumes
About
Not all of the volumes in the series below are by reformed authors, but numerous of them are. As more of the volumes become fully available on the net, they will be linked below. See also the serial volumes of Berkouwer below under the mid-1900’s.
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Contours of Christian Theology Buy (IVP Academic)
Revelation of God Peter Jensen
Doctrine of God Gerald Bray
Person of Christ Donald Macleod
Holy Spirit Sinclair Ferguson
Doctrine of Humanity Charles Sherlock
Providence Paul Helm
Work of Christ Robert Letham
Church Edmund Clowney
Last Things David Hohne
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New Studies in Dogmatics Buy (Zondervan)
Holy Scripture Donald Wood
Triune God Fred Sanders 2016
Divine Names Scott R. Swain
Election Oliver D. Crisp
Creation Marguerite Shuster
Providence Kevin J. Vanhoozer
Humanity Matt Jenson
Christology Daniel J. Treier
Redemption Henri Blocher
Justification, vol. 1, 2 Michael Horton 2018
Sanctification Michael Allen 2017
Holy Spirit Christopher R. J. 2015
Sacraments J. Todd Billings
Eschatology Ivor J. Davidson
Prayer Katherine Sonderegger
Christian Life Kelly M. Kapic
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Short Studies in Systematic Theology Buy (Crossway)
Faithful Theology: Introduction Graham Cole 2020
Scripture Mark Thompson
Attributes of God Gerald Bray 2021
Trinity Scott R. Swain 2020
Election & Reprobation Andrew David Naselli
Person of Christ Stephen J. Wellum 2021
Church Gregg R. Allison 2021
Holy Spirit Fred Sanders 2022
Glorification Graham Cole
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1500’s 30+
ed. Kidd, B.J. – Documents of the Continental Reformation Buy (Oxford, 1911) 765 pp. ToC Covers 1343-1570
‘Kidd compiled over 350 selections from crucial Lutheran and Reformed documents. This work was a standard in classrooms for years. It is primarily of value to academics, since many of the selections are in Latin and French. Included are documents predating the Lutheran reformation, through the Ninety-five Theses, to the Peace of Augsburg (1555). The Reformed tradition is represented by Zwingli, Farel, and Calvin, including the disputes with Anabaptists. The collection closes with a selection of Calvinism beyond Geneva, with representative documents from France, the Netherlands, and Scotland.’
Luther, Martin
95 Theses (1517)
The Bondage of the Will trans. J.I. Packer & O.R. Johnston Buy (1525; Fleming H. Revell, 1957) 320 pp. ToC This is the best translation; the introduction is superb. Older translations exist, such as by Edward T. Vaughan and Henry Cole.
Luther (1483-1546) was a major Protestant reformer. This work is not a complete systematic theology; it only covers soteriology, but it is Luther’s most systematic work. Contrary to later Lutheranism (influenced by Melancthon), Luther was significantly ‘calvinistic’, as is demonstrated here.
Melanchthon, Philip
Common Places
1521
The Loci Communes of Philip Melanchthon trans. Charles L. Hill (Boston: Meador Publishing, 1944) 275 pp. ToC
Though Melanchthon (1497–1560) was a Lutheran, this work of his was the first ‘systematic theology’ of the Reformation, and, as it was very influential on reformed systematic theologies following shortly thereafter, so it is placed here.
‘…the first Protestant dogmatics, as it is sometimes called, represents the work of a young man writing at the very beginning of the Lutheran Reformation.’ – W. Pauck
Theological Common Places 150 pp. trans. Satre & Pauck in Melanchthon & Bucer in The Library of Christian Classics, vol. 19 (London: SCM Press LTD, 1969), pp. 3-153 ToC It is not easily ascertainable which year this edition of the common places represents, but it appears to be the 1521 edition.
Common Places: Loci Communes 1521 Buy (Concordia Publishing, 2014) 224 pp. This is the first edition; it was heavily revised and expanded in many later editions.
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1535
Common Theological Topics: Loci Communes Theologici (1535) Buy (Repristination Press, 2020) 314 pp.
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1543
Loci Communes, 1543 trans. J.A.O. Preus (Concordia Publishing House, 1992) 260 pp. ToC
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1555
Melanchthon on Christian Doctrine, Loci Communes, 1555 trans. Clyde L. Manschreck (NY: Oxford Univ. Press, 1965) 415 pp. ToC
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1559
The Chief Theological Topics: Loci Praecipui Theologici 1559 Buy (Concordia Publishing, 2011) 549 pp.
This was the last expansion and revision of the common places before Melanchthon’s death in 1560.
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Apology of the Augsburg Confession Trans. F. Bente & W. H. T. Dau (1531; Project Gutenberg, 2004)
A Godly & Learned Assertion in Defence of the True Church of God, & of His Word… (London, 1580) 66 pp. ToC
The Justification of Man by Faith Only… (London, 1548) 79 pp. ToC
A Weighing & Considering of the Interim ([London, 1548]) 54 pp. ToC
A Civil Nosgay, wherein is Contained Not Only the Office & Duty of All Magistrates & Judges, but Also of All Subiects… ([London: 1550]) 68 pp. ToC
Melanchthon: Orations on Philosophy & Education trans. Christine F. Salazar Pre (Cambridge Univ. Press, 1999) ToC
Melanchthon in English: New Translations Into English with a Registry of Previous Translations… Ref (Center for Reformation Research, 1982) 58 pp.
Zwingli, Ulrich
ed. Jackson, Samuel – Ulrich Zwingli: Early Writings Buy (Wipf & Stock, 2000)
Zwingli (1484–1531) was a leader of the Reformation in Switzerland.
ed. Pipkin, H. & E. Furcha – Huldrych Zwingli: Writings, 2 vols. Buy (Pickwick, 1984)
Commentary on True & False Religion ed. Jackson & Heller Buy Pre (1525; Labyrinth Press, 1981) 420 pp. ToC
“In 29 chapters Zwingli discusses all of the principal topics of Christian theology. The result is the most significant dogmatic work which Zwingli ever wrote and the most important systematic statement of Reformed theology before Calvin’s Institutes.”
Brief Christian Instruction in Reformed Confessions of the 16th & 17th Centuries ed. James Dennison, Jr. Buy (RHB, 2008), vol. 1, pp. 9-39
Zwingli on Providence & Other Essays ed. William J. Hinke Buy (NC: The Labyrinth Press, 1983) 300 pp. ToC
Declaration of Huldreich Zwingli Regarding Original Sin, Addressed to Urbanus Rhegius, pp. 1-32
An Account of the Faith of Ulrich Zwingli Submitted to the German Emperor at the Diet of Augsburg, pp. 33-61
A Short & Clear Exposition of the Christian Faith, pp. 235-293
The Reckoning & Declaration of the Faith & Belief of Huldrik Zwingli… sent to Charles V that Now is Emperor of Rome… (1530; 1548) 67 pp. 12 articles
The Christian Education of Youth… trans. Alcide Reichenbach (1526; PA: Thompson Brothers, 1899) 100 pp. no ToC
Selected Works… ed. Samuel M. Jackson (Philadelphia: Univ. of Pennsylvania, 1901) 258 pp. ToC
Hamilton, Patrick
Diverse Fruitful Gatherings of Scripture & Declaring of Faith & Works of the Law (London, 1534?) 23 pp. ToC
Hamilton (1504–1528) was a proto-reformer and martyr in Scotland.
A Most Excellent & Fruitful Treatise, Called Patrick’s Places, Concerning the Doctrine of Faith & the Doctrine of the Law: which being Known, you have the Pith of all Divinity. With a Brief Collection or Exposition of a Sum of St. Paul’s Doctrine Touching Justification by Faith in Jesus Christ… (1598) 30 pp. ToC
Rhegius, Urbanus
A Declaration of the Twelve Articles of the Christian Faith with Annotations of the Holy Scripture, where they be Grounded in. And the Right Foundation & Principal Common Places of the Whole Godly Scripture, a Goodly Short Declaration to All Christians… (London, 1548) 230 pp. ToC
Rhegius (1489–1541) was a Protestant Reformer who was active both in Northern and Southern Germany in order to promote Lutheran unity in the Holy Roman Empire. He was also a popular poet. Luther referred to him as the “Bishop of Lower Saxony”.
Rhegius began to support the Reform movement in 1521 (having succeeded Johannes Oecolampadius in Augsburg) and became an arbitor between the different views on the Eucharist expressed by Luther and Zwingli. In 1530 he was one of the collaborators (along with Luther and others) who created the Augsburg Confession.
A Necessary Instruction of Christian Faith & Hope for Christians to Hold Fast & to be Bolde[n] up on the Promise of God, & Not to Doubt of their Salvation in Christ (London, 1579) 58 pp. ToC
Much of this is very good, though he does take the Lutheran view of the matter (which is clearly mentioned near the end).
Farel, William – Summary & Brief Declaration of those Points Very Necessary for Each Christian… (1529) 58 pp. in Reformed Confessions of the 16th & 17th Centuries ed. James Dennison, Jr. Buy (RHB, 2008), vol. 1, pp. 51-112
Farel (1489-1565) was a French and Swiss reformer who was influential on Calvin.
Bucer, Martin
Systematic Works
The Common Places of Martin Bucer ed. D.F. Wright Buy (Oxford: Sutton Courtenay, Appleford, 1972) 520 pp.
Bucer (1491–1551) was a German Protestant reformer based in Strasbourg who influenced Lutheran, Calvinist, and Anglican doctrines and practices.
On the Reign of Christ trans. Satre & Pauck in Melanchthon & Bucer in The Library of Christian Classics, vol. 19 (London: SCM Press LTD, 1969), pp. 155-394 ToC This edition leaves untranslated bk. 2, chs. 22-46.
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Other Works
Instruction in Christian Love, 1523 (John Knox Press, 1953) 67 pp. ToC
Concerning The True Care of Souls Buy (Banner of Truth, 2009) 218 pp.
The Mind & Exposition of… Bucer upon these Words of St. Mathew: ‘Woe be to the World because of Offences,’ Mt. 18… (Emden, 1566) ToC
The Judgement of Martin Bucer Concerning Divorce, written to Edward VI in his Second Book of the Kingdom of Christ [chs. 15-47]… trans. John Milton (London, 1644) 26 pp. EEBO Much of the material here translated is not in the edition of the Reign of Christ above.
A Treatise Declaring & Showing Diverse Causes Taken out of the Holy Scriptures of the Sentences of Holy Fathers & of the Decrees of Devout Emperours that Pictures & Other Images which were wont to be Worshipped, are in No Wise to be Suffered in the Temples or Churches of Christian Men (London, 1535) 102 pp. ToC
A Treatise, how by the Word of God, Christian Men’s Alms Ought to be Distributed (1557?) 29 pp. ToC
…Answer unto the Two Railing Epistles of Steven, Bishop of Winchester, Concerning the Unmaried State of Priests and Cloisterars, wherein is Evidently Declared that it is Against the Laws of God & of his Church to Require of all such as be & must be Admitted to Priesthood, to Refrain from Holy Matrimony (London, 1549) 160 pp. ToC
A Review of the Book of Common Prayer, Drawn up at the Reqest of Archbishop Cranmer… Briefly Analyzed & Abridged ed. Arthur Roberts (London, 1853) 65 pp. no ToC
a Lasco, John – A Compendium of Doctrine of the One True Church of God & Christ: the London Confession in Reformed Confessions of the 16th & 17th Centuries ed. James Dennison, Jr. Buy (RHB, 2008), vol. 1, pp. 551-583
Laski (1499–1560) was a reformed Polish reformer.
Calvin, John
Institutes
1541
Institutes of the Christian Religion: 1541 French Edition trans. Elsie A. McKee (Eerdmans, 2009) 745 pp. ToC
Calvin (1509–1564) was a French and Swiss reformer.
Institutes of the Christian Religion: Calvin’s Own ‘Essentials’ Edition trans. Robert White Buy (Banner of Truth, 2014)
“Any who wish to encounter Calvin’s systematic theology at its most pastoral, freest from controversial preoccupations… this rendering of the Reformer’s own French version of the second edition of his Institutes.” – J.I. Packer
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1559 (Final)
The Institution of Christian Religion, in Four Books… trans. Thomas Norton (1599; Glasgow, 1762) 718 pp. ToC Index
This was the standard, Post-Reformation translation from Calvin’s own day.
Institutes of the Christian Religion, vol. 1, 2 trans. John Allen (Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1844) ToC
This is the older, 1800’s wooden translation.
Institutes of the Christian Religion, vols. 1, 2, 3 trans. Henry Beveridge Buy (1559) ToC
This is a fluid translation, which the webmaster prefers. It is also available in HTML at Center for Dutch Reformation Studies.
Calvin: Institutes of the Christian Religion, vol. 1, 2 ed. John T. McNeill, trans. Ford Lewis Battles in The Library of Christian Classics, vols. 20-21 (Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1960) ToC
This is the standard scholarly edition which has improved past translations, though is not without its own peculiar translations and errors.
See also, New Light on Calvin’s Institutes: a Supplement to the McNeill-Battles Translation (Hartford Seminary Press, 1966) 60 pp. Battles in this work goes page by page through his translation giving further notes, references and alternate translations.
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Collections of Tracts & Treatises
Tracts, vol. 1 (Reformation), 2 (Sacraments, Catechism, Confession, Form of Prayer), 3 (Trent, Interim, Reforming, Psychopannychia) (Edinburgh: Calvin Translation Society, 1844-1851) ToC 1, 2, 3
Tracts & Treatises, vol. 1 (Reformation), 2 (Doctrine & Worship), 3 (Defense of Reformed Faith) trans. Beveridge, ed. Torrance (Eerdmans, 1958) ToC 1, 2, 3
Calvin: Theological Treatises trans. J.K.S. Reid in The Library of Christian Classics (Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1977) 350 pp. ToC
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Books
Instruction in Faith (1537) trans. Paul T. Fuhrman (Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1949) 95 pp. ToC
“It was under these circumstances, and on Farel’s suggestion, that Calvin wrote in French this Instruction in Faith and published it in 1537. His intention was not to gain the admiration of scholars, but to inspire a simple faith in the people of Geneva. This treatise presented to the common people the essence of his Institutes of 1536. It is indeed Calvin’s own popular compendium of his earliest Institutio.” – Foreward
Acts of the Council of Trent with the Antidote (1547)
Calvin on Secret Providence trans. James Lillie (NY: 1840) 125 pp. ToC
Sermons… upon the Ten Commandments of the Law… Otherwise Called the Decalogue… when He Preached on Deuteronomy… (London, 1579) 260 pp.
Christ the End of the Law: being the Preface to the Geneva Bible of 1550 (London: Henry George Collins, 1848) 45 pp. no ToC
A Treatise on the Sacraments of Baptism & the Lord’s Supper (Edinburgh, 1837) 190 pp. no ToC
A Treatise on Relics… (Edinburgh: Johnstone & Hunter, 1854) 310 pp. ToC
Four Godly Sermons Against the Pollution of Idolatries… (London, 1561) 225 pp. no ToC
A Little Book of John Calvin’s Concerning Offences… (1567) 245 pp.
Of the Life or Conversation of a Christian Man, a Right Godly Treatise… (1549) 160 pp.
This work was originally a part of Calvin’s Institutes, but was published separately for its practical value. It has been reprinted in a modern edition as, Golden Booklet of the True Christian Life tran. Henry J. van Andel (Baker, 1952) 95 pp. ToC.
On God & Political Duty ed. John T. McNeill (NY: Macmillan, 1950) 130 pp. ToC Selections from his Institutes and commentaries on Romans & Daniel.
Contra the Anabaptists & Libertines
A Short Instruction for to Arm All Good Christian People Against the Pestiferous Errors of the Common Sect of Anabaptists ([London, 1549]) 165 pp. ToC EEBO
Calvin in this work critiques the Schleitheim Confession (1527) of the Anabaptists (see background at Wikipedia).
For a brief intro and some quotes from this work, see the article (very slanted from the view of Anglicanism) by Bradford Littlejohn, ‘Calvin Against the Anabaptists’.
Treatises Against the Anabaptists & Against the Libertines ed. & trans. Benjamin Farley Buy (Baker Academic, 1982/2001)
Viret, Pierre
The First Part of the Christian Instruction, & General Sum of the Doctrine Contained in the Holy Scriptures wherein the Principal Points of the Religion are Familiarly Handled by Dialogues (London, 1565) 191 pp. ToC
Viret (1511-1571) was a Swiss reformed theologian, reformer and professor of theology at Lausanne.
A Christian Instruction, Containing the Law and the Gospel. Also a Summary of the Principal Points of the Christian Faith & Religion, & of the Abuses & Errors Contrary to the Same. Done in Certain Dialogues (London, 1573) 538 pp. Outline
A Very Familiar & Fruitful Exposition of the 12 Articles of the Christian Faith contained in the Common Creed, called the Apostles’ Creed, made in Dialogues… (London, 1548) 225 pp. ToC
The Christian Disputations… Divided into Three Parts, Dialogue-wise… (London, 1579) 301 pp. ToC Indices 1, 2, 3
The Principal Points which are at this Day in Controversy concerning the Holy Supper & of the Mass (London, 1579) 170 pp. ToC
Bullinger, Heinrich
The Decades Buy (Cambridge: Parker Society, 1849)
1st & 2nd Decades Word of God, Faith, Apostle’s Creed, Law, Commandments 1-7
Bullinger (1504–1575). A ‘decade’ of sermons is 10 sermons. Bullinger compassed the whole of the Christian faith in 50 sermons.
3rd Decade Commandments 8-10, Ceremonial & Judicial Laws, Good Works, Sin
4th Decade Gospel, Repentance, Trinity, Providence, Prayer, Christ & Offices, Angels & Soul of Man
5th Decade Church, Ministry, Prayer, Sacraments, Various, General Index, Persons
Questions of Religion Cast Abroad in Helvetia [Switzerland] by the Adversaries of the Same, & Answered by H. Bullinger of Zurich, Reduced into 17 Common Places trans. John Coxe (London, 1572) 145 pp. ToC
Sermons on the Sacraments (Cambridge, 1840) 300 pp. ToC
‘The Epistle of Henry Bullinger’ 4 pp. in Two Epistles, One of Henry Bullinger, with the consent of all the learned men of the Church of Tigury [Zurich]: Another of John Calvin… whether it be lawful for a Christian man to communicate or be partaker of the mass of the Papists, without offending God and his neighbor, or not (1544)
An Wholesome Antidote or Counter-Poison Against the Pestilent Heresy & Sect of the Anabaptists (1548) 320 pp.
The Golden Book of Christian Matrimony Most Necessary & Profitable for All them that Intend to Live Quietly & Godly in the Christian State of Holy Wedlock… (1543) 200 pp. ToC
Musculus, Wolfgang
Common Places of the Christian Religion (1560; London, 1563) 580 pp. ToC Extended ToC See also the 1578 edition.
Musculus (1497–1563) was a student of Bucer and Capito; he became a Swiss, reformed, professor of theology at Bern. A common place was a common subject that was often taken up in discussing the Christian Religion.
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Table of Contents
God 1.a
Works of God 8.b
Creation 9.b
Creation of Angels 10.b
Creation of Man 11.b
Free-Will 18.b
Sin 21.a
Laws 16.a
1st Commandment 36.b
2nd Commandment 41.b
3rd Commandment 45.a
4th Commandment 60.a
5th Commandment 70.a
6th Commandment 76.a
7th Commandment 83.a
8th Commandment 90.b
9th Commandment 96.b
10th Commandment 103.a
Covenant & Testament of God 120.a
Difference of the Old & New Testament 124.a
Grace of God 125.a
Redemption of Mankind 129.a
Incarnation of the Word 133.b
Vain & curious matters of the Schoolmen concerning the Incarnation
Testimonies of Scriptures concerning the Word of God
Ethnics do declare the Word to be in God
No man must be too curious to search how the Word is in God
The Word is the Son of God
John reports two things of the Word of God, the Godhead & the Incarnation
He says not, ‘God was made flesh’
He says not, ‘Christ was made flesh’
He says not, ‘God made the Word’
He does not say, ‘The Word is made man’
The Word was made flesh
The Lord took upon Him man’s weakness
He says not, ‘The Word took or joined flesh unto him’
The natures of the Word and of the flesh be contrary
The Word and the flesh be so united that the Word may be said to be made flesh
Whether it may be said that the flesh was made the Word
He says not, ‘The Word was changed into flesh.’
The Word receiving flesh left not his nature
The testimonies of the Godhead and manhood of Christ cannot be vain
The fathers travailed much to confute them that deny two natures in Christ
We must wisely put a difference between nature and person
The beginning of Christ’s flesh
The true good and right opinion of the sound Church
Of the way how the Word is incarnated
It passes the compass of man’s understanding
Christ took upon Him the soul, spirit and flesh of man
Cause of this incarnation
The general cause is to redeem mankind from sin and everlasting death
To declare the love of God towards mankind
That He might like his brethren
That He should be a faithful and merciful bishop
Dispensation or Bestowing of the Grace of God 140.a
Gospel of Jesus Christ 142.a
Holy Scriptures 147.b
Authority & Excellency of the Canonical Scriptures 149.a
What Difference is between the Holy Scriptures & Writing of the Fathers, by Bishops & Council 151.b
Languages of Holy Scriptures 155.a
Reading of Holy Scriptures 156.b
Profit of the Holy Scriptures 159.b
Truth & Accomplishment of Holy Scriptures 163.a
Ministries of the Word of God 163.b
Duties of the Ministers of the Word 164.b
Choosing & Ordaining of Ministers in the Church 167.b
Power of the Ministers 170.a
Blameless Life & Honesty of the Ministers 175.b
Why Marriage was taken away from Ministers 181.b
Reformation of Ministers of the Word 193.a
Faith 105.a
Election 288.a
Repentance 214.b
Justification 222.a
Good Works 232.a
Merits towards God 234.a
Remission & Forgiveness of Sins 238.b
Priesthood of the New Testament 247.b
Church 253.b
What the Church is 254.a
What the True Church of Christ is 256.a
Catholic Church 258.a
Power of the Church 265.b
What a Sacrament is 272.a
Baptism 281.a
Lord’s Supper 294.b
When the Lord’s Supper ought to be Ministered 310.a
How the Lord’s Supper ought to be Celebrated 320.b
Popish Mass 330.b
Worshipping or Serving of God Truly 351.b
Traditions 362.b
Name of God 367.a
Nature of God 372.a
Sufficiency of God 377.a
Omnipotency of God 380.a
Will of God 386.a
Truth of God 393.a
Goodness of God 399.a
Lovingness of God towards Man 402.b
Mercy of God 411.b
Justice of God 420.b
Providence of God 423.b
Presence of God 433.b
Anger of God 437.a
Judgments of God 445.a
Knowledge of God 452.a
Hope 457.a
Desperation 461.b
Love of God 465.b
Fear of God 471.b
Obedience 478.a
Prayer 484.a
Vows 498.a
Afflictions 509.a
Persecution 517.b
Patience 521.b
Impatiency 528.a
Heresy 529.a
Schism 542.b
Magistrates & What a Magistrate is 546.a
Oaths 571.a
Usury 579.a
On Righteousness, Oaths & Usury trans. Todd Rester in Sources in Early Modern Economics, Ethics & Law Buy (CLP, 2013) 162 pp.
“This text is a translation of Wolfgang Musculus’ commentary on Psalm 15 and his related appendices on the topics of oaths and usury.” – Bookflap
Vermigli, Peter Martyr
The Common Places of Vermigli, vol. 1 (parts 1-3), 2 (part 4) EEBO (1576/1583)
Vermigli (1499-1562) was an Itallian born reformed theologian. The Table of Contents to this important work, with an Introduction, has recently been made available in a contemporary edition. Read it and wet your taste for more!
A Brief & Most Excellent Exposition of the 12 Articles of our Faith, Commonly Called the Apostles’ Creed: wherein… are Handled the Principal Points of Christian Religion (1578) 28 pp. in The Common Places… pp. 612-40
Another Collection of Certain Divine Matters & Doctrines… (1583) ToC Index appended to The Common Places…
Discourses: Free will, Providence, Predestination, Cause of Sin, Mass, Exhortation to the Lord’s Supper, Three Confessions on the Presence & Participation of Christ in the Sacraments, Certain Questions & Answers 101
Propositions out of Gen-Lev & Judges, 3 Disputations on Chris’ts Presence in the Supper 143
Discourses: Death of Christ, Resurrection of Christ, on Jn. 20, Reedifying of Christ’s Church, Profit & Dignity of the Holy Ministry, Exhortation for Young Men to Study the Holy Scriptures, Oration on the Study of Divinity, Another Oration 1
Theological Epistles 62
The Oxford Treatise & Disputation on the Eucharist Buy (London, 1550) 215 pp. ToC
A Treatise of the Cohabitation of the Faithful with the Unfaithful, whereunto is added a Sermon made of the Confessing of Christ & his Gospel, & of the Denying of the Same (Strasbourg, 1555) 86 pp. ToC
A Brief Treatise Concerning the Use & Abuse of Dancing (London, 1580) 54 pp. ToC
Predestination & Justification Buy (Davenant Press, 2018) 296 pp.
Dialogue on the Two Natures in Christ Buy (Davenant Press, 2018) 240 pp.
On the Relation of Philosophy to Theology Buy (Davenant Press, 2018) 396 pp.
Beza, Theodore
Systematic Works
A Brief & Pithy Sum of the Christian Faith made in Form of a Confession Buy (London, 1562) 195 pp. ToC
Beza (1519–1605) was the successor of Calvin in Geneva, Switzerland.
A Book of Christian Questions & Answers, Wherein are set forth the Chief Points of the Christian Religion (1574) 90 pp. No ToC
‘Supralapsarianism: The Fall of Man Was Both Necessary and Wonderful’, Questions 190-194
The Treasure of Truth Touching the Groundwork of Man’s Salvation, & Chiefest Points of Christian Religion in 38 Short Aphorisms (London, 1576) 270 pp. ToC
An Evident Display of Popish Practices, or Patched Pelagianism. Wherein is Mightily Cleared the Sovereign Truth of God’s Eternal Predestination, the Stayed Groundwork of our Most Assured Safety by Christ (London, 1578) 263 pp. ToC
A Little Catechism, that is to Say, a Short Instruction Touching Christian Religion… ([London, 1578]) 15 pp. ToC
A Brief Declaration of the Chief Points of Christian Religion set Forth in a Table (London, 1579) 88 pp. ToC ed. R. Scott Clark
The Other Part of Christian Questions & Answers, which is Concerning the Sacraments… to which is Added a Large Table of the Same Questions (London, 1580) 330 pp. ToC
Beza, Theodore & Jacob Andreas – Lutheranism vs. Calvinism: The Classic Debate at the Colloquy of Montbeliard 1586 Buy (Concordia Publishing House, 2017) 656 pp.
The debate at the Colloquy of Montbeliard was principally between Andreas (the Lutherans calling for it) and Beza. The volume contains their interchanged speeches on the Lord’s Supper, the Person of Christ, the reformation of church buildings, images and organs, baptism and predestination.
Beza, Faius & Students – Propositions & Principles of Divinity Propounded & Disputed in the University of Geneva by Certain Students of Divinity there, under Mr. Theodore Beza & Mr. Anthony Faius… Wherein is Contained a Methodical Summary, or Epitome of the Common Places of Divinity… (Edinburgh, 1591) 268 pp. ToC
These were disputations held under the presiding of professors Theodore Beza and Anthony Faius in Geneva. This work is something akin to the later, Dutch, Leiden Synopsis (1625).
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On Particular Doctrines
On the Trinity
Beza on the Trinity, 21 Theses, Part 1 (#1–15) also entitled: ‘Theses or Axioms on the Trinity of Persons and their Unity of Essence as Derived from Theodore Beza’s Lectures’, from Tractationes Theologicae Bezae, Volumen I (Geneva: Jean Crespin, 1570), p. 651. In Ordained Servant Online, OPC
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On Predestination
Calvin, John & Theodore Beza – ‘Calvin & Beza on Providence: Translations by Knox’ trans. John Knox (1545, 1558, 1560; ReformedBooksOnline, 2021) 14 pp.
An Evident Display of Popish Practises, or Patched Pelagianism. Wherein is Mightily Cleared the Sovereign Truth of God’s Eternal Predestination, the Stayed Groundwork of our Most Assured Safety by Christ (London, 1578) 263 pp. ToC
‘An Excellent Treatise of Comforting Such as are Troubled about their Predestination, Taken out of the Second Answer of Mr. Beza to Dr. Andreas, in the Act of their Colloquy at Mompelgart, etc.’ 4 pp. appended to William Perkins, A Golden Chain: or The Description of Theology Containing the Order of the Causes of Salvation & Damnation… Whereunto is Adjoined the Order which Mr. Theodore Beza used in Comforting Afflicted Consciences (Cambridge, 1600)
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On the Church
A Discourse of the True & Visible Marks of the Catholic Church (London [1582?]) 130 pp. ToC
The Judgment of a Most Reverend & Learned Man from Beyond the Seas Concerning a Threefold Order of Bishops [of God, of Man, of the Devil], with a Declaration of Certain Other Weighty Points Concerning the Discipline & Government of the Church ([London, 1585]) 43 pp. ToC
“A bishop ordained of God, or set up by the law of God, does declare nothing else but their calling, which by an other more special name, are called pastors, whom (says Luke [in Acts 20]) the holy Ghost has ap∣pointed bishops to feed the Church of God. And either of these names of pastor or of bishop is proper to them in the New Testament, whereby the apostle does distinguish them from apostles, prophets, and evange∣lists, which were callings to endure for a time, Eph. 4:11, and from deacons, 1 Tim. 3 and Phil. 1:1, for otherwise they
are everywhere called elders… But they are called bishops in regard of the sheep committed unto them, as though a man should call them watchmen of [or?] overseers.
These now were one alone, as where any church had but one pastor, or more if the church had more than one. And the meeting of them together jointly with their elders, whom Paul calls ‘governors’ [1 Cor. 12], of the other common name called, was the eldership. Their duty was to attend on the word and prayer, both publicly and privately, and in common to governe the Church, as appears by many places of Scripture.
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Of the Bishop that is of Man
The bishop that is of man, that is to say, brought into the Church by the alone wisdom of man, besides the express Word of God, is a certain power given to one certain pastor above his other fellows, yet limited with certain orders or rules provided against tyranny. They which did bear this office of bishop, are called bishops in regard of their fellow elders and the whole clergy, as watchmen set over the clergy.
That this calling was not brought in by the Word, it is manifest by that, that there is not to be found in the New Testament so much as one syllable, whereby there may be the least surmise of any such thing. For although we doubt not, but all things ought to be done orderly in the Lord’s house, and therefore that some one should be president in every assembly…
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The Answer to the First Question
Where as Satan’s bishop has been the overthrow of the Church and all Christian kingdoms, whose head is
the Roman Antichrist, it is to be looked unto of all hands, especially of all godly princes, that they at once abolish it, if they mind the reformation of the Church and their own safety. As for the bishop ordained by man and brought into the Church by little and little, whereby Satan made him a way for greater things, it had been tolerable… experience of so many ages does teach us too well, that unless this root also be plucked up, it will come to pass that the same fruit will sprout and bud forth again.
Finally, seing the Lord has so often decided this controuersy of superiority among his own disciples, that He shut it clean out, seing the rule both for doctrine and good order of the Church is to be sought for out of the very writings of the apostles: and it is manifested, the churches then prospered, when all this authority of one man over the rest, yet was not, but as that grew up, so all things fell to decay. Finally, seeing where the remnants of this government by a few are not clean taken away, the worke of the Lord, is openly hindered: Our judgement is that after the chasing away of this device of man, the churches shall be well provided for, if they may be repaired according to the writings of the apostles.”
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On the Person of Christ & the Lord’s Supper
Two Very Learned Sermons of Mr. Beza, Together with a Short Sum of the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper: Whereunto is Added a Treatise of the Substance of the Lord’s Supper, wherein is Briefly & Soundly Discussed the Principal Points in Controversy Concerning that Question (London, 1588) 250 pp. ToC
The first sermon is on the Person and natures of Christ; the second is on that in relation to the Lord’s Supper.
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On the Lord’s Supper
The Second Oration of Master Theodore de Beze… [on the Lord’s Supper] Made & Pronounced at Poussy, in the Open Assembly of [the] Prelates of France in the Presence of the Queen, Mother, & Princes of the Blood Royal, the 26th Day of September, Anno 1561 (London [1562?]) 12 pp. ToC
A Clear & Simple Treatise on the Lord’s Supper Pre (1559, RHB, 2016) ToC
“[The Lutheran] Westphal’s Defense of the Lord’s Supper served as the subject of Beza’s treatise. The responsibility fell upon Beza primarily because Calvin, who had clearly had his fill of Westphal after composing three rebuttals, decided not to continue the literary battle… Beza, whose predisposition was to soften the hostility between the two sides… Some of Beza’s biographers have argued that this work was less harsh in its attacks on Westphal than one might have expected… Beza… complained that Westphal had been far too personal in his attacks on Calvin, insinuating that he was a drunkard and a glutton and that his mother had been the mistress of a parish priest.
As one reads Beza’s treatise, several emphases are apparent.
First, Beza responded chapter and verse to specific arguments and chapters of Westphal’s work.
Second, Beza was tireless and unapologetic in defense of Calvin, especially in his assertion that the Lord’s Supper is not a bare symbol and that in it we have true communion with the risen Christ.
Third, Beza made great use of the concept of metonymy, or a figure of speech, in his interpretation of the words of institution. Scripture, he argued, was full of such expressions, such as when the lamb is called the Passover meal or when Christ called the cup the covenant in His blood. He asked how the wine can be wine and blood at the same time without a figure of speech.
Fourth, like Calvin, Beza referred extensively to the church fathers, especially Augustine, in defense of his position.
Finally, at the end of the treatise, Beza pled for some degree of accord between the two sides by showing all the areas they had in common compared to few topics of disagreement. Ultimately his attempt at reconciliation would fall short as the gap between the Lutheran and Reformed views of the Eucharist was simply too vast.” – Martin Klauber, Introduction
Becon, Thomas
Prayers & Other Pieces by Thomas Becon (Cambridge: Parker Society, 1844)
The Common Places of Holy Scripture 63 pp.
Becon (c. 1511-1567) was an Anglican reformer, clergyman and a chaplain to Thomas Cranmer. He was initially significantly influenced by Luther, and then Zwingli.
Certain Articles of Christian Religion Proved & Confirmed 87 pp.
The Principles of Christian Religion 50 pp. in The Catechism of Thomas Becon with other Pieces (Cambridge: Parker Society, 1841)
Bunny, Edmund – The Whole Sum of Christian Religion, Given Forth by Two Several Methods or Forms… (London, 1576) 70 pp. no ToC
Bunny (1540–1619) was an English Calvinistic divine who also published an abridgment of Calvin’s Institutes.
de Brès, Guy – The Staff of Christian Faith, Profitable to all Christians for to Arm Themselves Against the Enemies of the Gospel: and also for to know the Antiquity of our Holy Faith & of the True Church. Gathered out of the Works of the Ancient Doctors of the Church & of the Councils… (London, 1577) 382 pp. ToC Index
de Bres (1522-1567) was a Walloon pastor, Protestant reformer and theologian, a student of Calvin and Beza in Geneva.
Marbeck, John – A Book of Notes & Common Places with their Expositions, Collected & Gathered out of the Works of Divers Singular Writers & Brought Alphabetically into Order (London, 1581) 1,194 pp. ToC
Merbecke (c. 1510 – c. 1585) was an English composer and strongly Calvinistic theological writer whose musical setting of the early Anglican liturgy standardised the sung Anglican service until the late 20th century.
Olevian, Caspar
An Exposition of the Apostle’s Creed Buy (London, 1581) 260 pp. ToC EEBO
Olevian (1536–1587) was a significant German reformed theologian, and has been said to be a co-author of the Heidelberg Catechism along with Zacharias Ursinus (though this has been questioned).
A Catechism, or Brief Instruction in the Principles & Grounds of the True Christian Religion, with a Short Treatise Premised Concerning the Profity & Necessity of Catechizing (London, 1617) 41 pp. ToC
A Firm Foundation: an Aid to Interpreting the Heidelberg Catechism trans. Lyle D. Bierma Buy (Baker, 1995) 132 pp.
Gifford, George
A Catechism Containing the Sum of Christian Religion, giving a Most Excellent Light to All Those that Seek to Enter the Pathway to Salvation (London, 1583) 140 pp. ToC
Gifford (c. 1548–1600 or 1620?) was a non-conformist, English, puritan preacher at Maldon in Essex, England.
A Brief Discourse of Certain Points of the Religion which is among the Common Sort of Christians, which may be Termed the Country Divinity, with a Manifest Confutation of the Same, after the Order of a Dialogue (London, 1582) 82 pp. ToC
The Great Mystery of Providence, or the Various Methods of God in Ordering & Over-Ruling the Actions of Wicked Men & Devils to Great & Glorious Purposes… being the Substance of Several Sermons (London: 1695) 32 pp. ToC
Four Sermons upon the Seven Chief Virtues or Principal Effects of Faith & the Doctrine of Election: wherein Every Man may Learn whether He be God’s Child or No (London, 1582) 107 pp. ToC
Against Romanism
A Dialogue Bewteen a Papist & Protestant Applied to the Capacity of the Unlearned (London, 1599) 165 pp. ToC
A Brief Treatise Against the Priesthood & Sacrifice of the Church of Rome… Usurping that Office & Action, which ever Appertain to Christ Only (London, 1635) 39 pp. ToC
On the English Separatists
A Short Treatise Against the Donatists of England, whom we call Brownists, wherein, by the Answers unto Certain Writings of theirs, Diverse of their Heresies are Noted, with Sundry Fantastical Opinions… (London, 1590) 110 pp. ToC
John Greenwood replied to this work in, An Answer to George Gifford’s Pretended Defence.
A Plain Declaration that our Brownists be Full Donatists by Comparing them Together from Point to Point out of the Writings of Augustine. Also a Reply to Master Greenwood touching Read Prayer, wherein his Gross Ignorance is Detected… (London, 1590) 126 pp. ToC
This work is in reply to John Greenwood’s, An Answer to George Gifford’s Pretended Defence…, which was a reply to Gifford’s, A Short Treatise…
A Short Reply unto the Last Printed Books of Henry Barrow & John Greenwood, the Chief Ringleaders of our Donatists in England. Wherein is laid Open their Gross Ignorance & Foul Errors: upon which their Whole Building is Founded (London, 1591) 98 pp. ToC
On Witchcraft
Gifford has two works on witchcraft (which are online); he was a moderate on the issues.
Prime, John
A Fruitful & Brief Discourse in Two Books: the One of Nature, the Other of Grace, with Convenient Answer to the Enemies of Grace, upon Incident Occasions Offered by the Late Rhemish Notes in their New Translation of the New Testament, & Others (London, 1583) 211 pp. ToC
Prime (c.1549-1596) was a reformed Anglican clergyman and Oxford scholar.
A Short Treatise of Sacraments Generally, & in Special of Baptism & of the Supper (London, 1582) 95 pp. ToC
ed. DeLaune, William – An Abridgement of The Institution of Christian Religion written by Mr. John Calvin. Wherein Brief & Sound Answers to the Objections of the Adversaries are Set Down trans. Christopher Fetherstone (Edinburgh, 1585) 398 pp. Outline IA
DeLaune (d. 1610) was French physician, minister and divine. Fehterstone was a minister.
Finch, Henry – The Sacred Doctrine of Divinity Gathered out of the Word of God, Together with an Explication of the Lord’s Prayer (Middleburg, 1589) 57 pp. ToC
Finch (d. 1625) was an English lawyer and politician.
ed. Jean-Francois Salvard, Theodore Beza, Lambert Daneau, Antoine de la Roche Chandieu & Simon Goulart – The Harmony of Protestant Confessions (1581; London, 1842) 700 pp. ToC Latin
In 1581, the first Harmony of Protestant Reformed Confessions of Faith was published in Geneva. It was the result of a collaboration between the Huguenot ministers listed above.
They published it in response to the publication of the Lutheran Book of Concord in 1580. It included a comparison of eleven Reformed confessions and the Lutheran Augsburg Confession. In 1842, it was translated into English, reorganized and enlarged by Peter Hall.
Zanchi, Girolamo
Confession of the Christian Religion… Buy (1586; Cambridge, 1599) 442 pp. ToC
Zanchi (1516-1590) was an important rerformed, Italian, clergyman and educator, who influenced the development of reformed theology after Calvin’s death.
The Doctrine of Absolute Predestination Stated & Asserted… trans. Augustus Toplady (NY: George Lindsay, 1811) 300 pp. ToC
This edition, while helpful for the purpose, yet is not reliable as to the exact words of Zanchi, as Toplady gratuitously added his own material without notice.
Speculum Christianum or, A Christian Survey for the Conscience. Containing, Three Tractates… 1. Of the End of the World. 2. Of the Perseverance of the Saints. 3. A Summary Abridgment of his Protections [about Perseverance] (London, 1614) 353 pp. ToC
The Spiritual Marriage between Christ & His Church & Every One of the Faithful Buy (RHB, 2021) 166 pp. ToC
On the Law in General in Sources in Early Modern Economics, Ethics & Law Buy (CLP, 2012) 140 pp.
“On the Law in General is a single chapter of Girolamo Zanchi’s Tractatus de Redemptione, part of what has been called an unfinished Protestant “summa” akin to that of Thomas Aquinas. In this selection, Zanchi examines the relationship of natural law to human law, church tradition, customs, divine laws, and the Mosaic Law.” – Bookflap
Ursinus, Zacharias
Commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism
The Sum of Christian Religion: Delivered… in his Lectures upon the Catechism… trans. Henrie Parrie (Oxford, 1587) 1,047 pp. ToC The modern editions are heavily edited.
Ursinus (1534–1583) was a German reformed theologian, reformer and professor at the University of Heidelberg. He was the principal author and interpreter of the Heidelberg Catechism.
Commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism 3rd American ed., trans. George W. Williard Buy (Cincinnati: Bucher, 1851) 700 pp. ToC
This modern edition, often reprinted, edited heavily from the original, sometimes detracting from the important points and language of the original.
A Collection of Certain Learned Discourses, written by… Ursine… for Explication of Diverse Difficult Points Laid Down by that Author in his Catechism (Oxford, 1600) 341 pp. ToC
A Very Profitable & Necessary Discourse Concerning the Observation & Keeping of the Sabbath Day, Serving as Well to Confute the Superstition of the Jews which Obstinately Urge the Strict Keeping of the Seventh Day, as also to Overthrow the Vain & Godless Reasons of Others that Stiffely at this Day Maintain that Christians ought to Keep No Set or Appointed Time to Worship & Serve the Lord in, in his Church & Faithful Congregation (London, 1584) 62 pp. ToC
Students of Geneva – Propositions & Principles of Divinity Propounded & Disputed in the University of Geneva by Certain Students of Divinity there, under Mr. Theodore Beza & Mr. Anthony Faius… Wherein is Contained a Methodical Summary, or Epitome of the Common Places of Divinity… (Edinburgh, 1591) 268 pp. ToC
These were disputations the students were organized and held under the presiding of professors Theodore Beza and Anthony Faius in Geneva (who ultimately put their stamp of approval on them). This work is something akin to the later, Dutch, Leiden Synopsis (1625).
Bastingius, Jeremias – An Exposition Or Commentary upon the Catechism of Christian Religion which is Taught in the Schools & Churches Both of the Low Countries & of the Dominions of the County Palatine (Cambridge, ca. 1591) 275 pp. ToC Index Scripture Index
Bastingius (1551–1595) was a Dutch Reformed theologian best known for this exposition of the Heidelberg Catechism. Bastingius was trained by several prominent second-generation reformers. He studied under Ursinus, Beza, Olevianus and Zanchi, and was appointed to be a professor of theology at Leiden (though he died before he could exercise that office, at 44 years of age).
Virel, Matthew – A Learned & Excellent Treatise Containing All the Principal Grounds of Christian Religion (London, 1594) 280 pp. ToC
Virel (1561-1595)
Piscator, Johannes
Aphorisms of Christian Religion: or a Very Compendious Abridgement of Mr. John Calvin’s Institutions set forth in Short Sentences Methodically, by Mr. J. Piscator… (London, 1596) 197 pp. ToC
Piscator (1546–1625) was a German, reformed theologian, known as a Bible translator, commentator and a professor of theology at Herborn, Germany.
A Learned & Profitable Treatise of Man’s Justification. Two Books. Opposed to the Sophisms of Robert Bellarmine, Jesuit (London, 1599) 128 pp. ToC
Piscator was an early and main proponent of denying the active obedience of Christ, which is not recommended.
Rollock, Robert
Select Works of Robert Rollock… (Edinburgh, 1849), vol. 1
‘Rollock’s Summary of Theology’, pp. 23-28
A Treatise of Effectual Calling (1603), pp. 29-273 ToC OTA
Rollock (c. 1555-1599) was perhaps the most important early formulator of covenant theology in Scotland, principally due to this work. A look at the table of contents will show that he covers many of the topics of systematic theology. His main argumentative opponent is Romanism.
‘Of the Means whereby God from the Beginning has Revealed Both his Covenants unto Mankind’, pp. 274-88
‘A Brief Instruction on the Eternal Approval & Disapproval of the Divine Mind’ trans. Charles Johnson & Travis Fentiman (1593/1594) 6 pp.
This short work of Rollock’s was left untranslated in his Select Works, vol. 1, and, to our knowledge, has not been translated elsewhere. This piece has also been separately translated in the modern English transaltion of Rollock’s commentary on Ephesians (RHB).
‘Treatise on Justification’ trans. Aaron Clay Denlinger & Noah Phillips MAJT 27 (2016): 99-110 This work was published posthumously in Rollock’s time.
‘Catechism on God’s Covenants’ (1596) in Mid-American Journal of Theology (2009), pp. 105−129
Some Questions & Answers about God’s Covenant & the Sacrament that is a Seal of God’s Covenant: with Related Texts ed. Aaron C. Denlinger Buy (Pickwick, 2016) 106 pp. This also includes a section on Good Works.
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1600’s (39)
Perkins, William
An Exposition of the Symbol, or Apostles’ Creed… (Cambridge, 1595) 544 pp. ToC
Perkins (d. 1602) was an influential, puritan, Anglican clergyman and Cambridge theologian.
Cases of Conscience, Book 2 in Works (London, 1631), vol. 2 (of 3), pp. 30-104
The Whole Duty of Man, Containing a Practical Table of the Ten Commandments (London, 1674) 1 large page ToC
A Golden Chain, or the Description of Theology, Containing the Order of the Causes of Saluation & Damnation, According to God’s Word… Buy (Cambridge, 1600) 184 pp. ToC EEBO
Works (London, 1626) Extended ToC 1, 2, 3
Printer to the Reader
Extended ToC
Foundation of Christian Religion in 6 Principles 1
Golden Chain, or the Description of Theology 11
Exposition of the Apostles’ Creed 123
Exposition of the Lord’s Prayer 328
Whether a Man be in a State of Damnation or Grace 356
Declaration of Certain Spiritual Desertions 415
Case of Conscience on Assurance 421
Government of the Tongue 440
On Repentance 455
Combat of the Flesh & Spirit 469
How to Live Well 475
How to Die Well 487
Discourse of Conscience 517
A Reformed Catholic 558
Knowing Christ Crucified 625
Grain of Mustard-Seed 637
The True Gain 645
Warning Against the Idolatry of the Last Times 669
God’s Free-Grace & Man’s Free-Will 717
Treatise on the Callings of Men 750
Index
Scripture Index
Extended ToC
Cases of Conscience, 3 bks. 1
Exposition of Galatians 153
Treatise of Christian Equity 433
Treatise of Man’s Imaginations 456
Forged Catholicism, or Universality of the Romish Religion 486
Manner & Order of Predestination 603
The Art of Prophecying, or of Preaching 646
Harmony of the Books of the Old & New Testament 678
Index
Scripture Index
Errata
ToC
Exposition of the Sermon on the Mount 1
Commentary on Heb. 11, Cloud of Witnesses 1
Exposition of Rev. 1-3 207
Combat Between Christ & the Devil, on Temptation, Mt. 4 371
Exhortation to Repentance, Zech. 2 411
Calling to the Ministry, Duties & Dignities 429
Dialogue on the End of the World 465
Exposition of Jude 479
The Damned Art of Witchcraft, Ex. 22:18 607
Unlawful to Buy or Sell Prognostications 653
Right Manner of Erecting & Ordering a Family 669
Index
Scripture Index
ed. Nicols, Thomas – An Abridgment of the Whole Body of Divinity Extracted from the Learned Works of that Ever-Famous & Reverend Divine, Mr. William Perkins… (London, 1654) 204 pp. ToC This is a collection of extracts from Perkins’s writings, by Nicols, laid out in systematic form.
Bucanus, William – Institutions of Christian Religion Framed out of God’s Word, & the Writings of the Best Divines, Methodically Handled by Questions & Answers… (1602; London, 1606) 908 pp. ToC
Bucan (d. 1603) was a professor of divinity at the University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
Cartwright, Thomas
Systematic Works
Christian Religion: Substantially, Methodically, Plainly & Profitably Treatised (d. 1603; London, 1611) 315 pp. ToC
Cartwright (c. 1535–1603) was an English, puritan and presbyterian preacher and theologian. These two works of Cartwright’s, though similar, are significantly different.
A Treatise of Christian Religion, or, the Whole Body & Substance of Divinity (London, 1616) 378 pp. ToC
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Interchanges with Whitgift
A Reply to an Answer made of Mr. Doctor Whitgift Against the [Presbyterian] Admonition to the Parliament (Hemel Hempstead[?], 1573) 224 pp. Index
John Whitgift (c. 1530–1604) was an Archbishop of Canterbury who opposed the English puritans and presbyterians.
The Second Reply of Thomas Cartwright Against Master Doctor Whitgift’s Second Answer Touching the Church Discipline (Heidelberg, 1575) 666 pp.
The Rest of the Second Reply of Thomas Cartwright Against Master Doctor Whitgift’s Second Answer Touching the Church Discipline (Basel, 1577) 261 pp. Outline
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Other Works
‘Preface’ to A Confutation of the Rhemists’ Translation, Glosses & Annotations on the New Testament… (W. Brewster, 1618) EEBO
This gives Cartwright’s view of the preservation of the Biblical text through history, namely it being the received text. Note the names of those who encouraged him to write this work.
Keckermann, Bartholomaeus
Heavenly knowledge: A Manuduction to Theology (d. 1608; London, 1622)
A Godly & Devout Treatise, Teaching with what Due Preparation we ought to Come to the Holy Communion, which is Indeed an Abridgment of the System of Divinity, & may Serve for a Catechism of Christianity, pp. 1-168 This version of this piece is much longer than the one that appears in the below Heavenly Knowledge, Directing…
Bartholomaeus (c. 1572–1609) was a reformed professor of Hebrew at Heidelberg and a rector at Danzig.
Touching the Freeing of Man from his Misery, that is, from Sin & the Punishment of Sin, pp. 40-168
Heavenly Knowledge, Directing a Christian to ye Assurance of his Salvation in this Life (d. 1608; London, 1625)
Polanus, Amandus
Substance of Christian Religion Soundly set forth in Two Books, by Definitions & Partitions… Buy (London, 1595) 273 pp.
Polanus (1561-1610) was a German theologian of early Reformed orthodoxy. This work was a precursor to Polanus’s massive Syntagma below.
A Treatise of Amandus Polanus Concerning God’s Eternal Predestination… against the Corrupt Expositions of Bellarmine & Other Adversaries (Cambridge, 1599) 260 pp. ToC
A System of Christian Theology (Hanau, 1609-1610) Here is the lengthy ToC in English, translated from this Latin work.
For an overview of this important work, see Max Deal’s The Meaning & Method of Systematic Theology in Amandus Polanus.
Trelcatius, Jr., Lucas – A Brief Institution of the Common Places of Sacred Divinity, Wherein, the Truth of Every Place is Proved & the Sophisms of Bellarmine are Reproved 2nd ed. (London, 1610) 595 pp.
Trelcatius Jr. (1573-1607) was a professor of theology at Leiden. Robert Bellarmine was a prominent Roman Catholic apologist.
Parr, Elnathan – The Grounds of Divinity Plainly Discovering the Mysteries of Christian Religion, Propounded Familiarly in Diverse Questions & Answers: Substantially Proved by Scriptures, Expounded Faithfully According to the Writings of the Best Divines & Evidently Applied… to the which is Prefixed a Very Profitable Treatise Containing an Exhortation to the Study of the Word, with Singular Directions for the Hearing & Reading of the Same (London, 1614) 304 pp. Index
Parr (d. 1632?) was a reformed Anglican minister and clergyman.
Rogers, Thomas – The Catholic Doctrine of the Church of England, an Exposition of the 39 Articles (Cambridge: Parker Society, 1834) 395 pp. ToC
Rogers (1553-1616) was a reformed Anglican clergyman, and, unfortunately, an early opponent of Nicholas Bownde in the Sabbatarian controversy. Augustus Toplady praised Rogers’ Exposition.
Baynes, Paul
A Help to True Happiness. Or a Brief & Learned Exposition of the Main & Fundamental Points of Christian Religion (London, 1618) 396 pp.
Baynes (c.1573-1617) was a puritan, non-conformist, English preacher who was an associate of William Perkins. He was unpublished in his lifetime, but more than a dozen works were put out in the five years after he died.
His commentary on Ephesians is his best known work. See the topical Index to it for more places where Baynes treats of theological topics.
Two Godly & Fruitful Treatises, the one upon the Lord’s Prayer; the other, upon the Six Principles (London, 1619) ToC
The 6 principles are those of William Perkins in his Foundation of Christian Religion, Gathered into 6 Principles. The questions of these principles are:
1. What dost thou believe concerning God?
2. What dost thou believe concerning man, and concerning thine own self?
3. What means is there for thee to escape this damnable estate?
4. But how mayest thou be made partaker of Christ and his benefits?
5. What are the ordinary or usual means for obtaining of faith?
6. What is the estate of all men after death?
The Diocesan’s Trial, wherein All the Sinews of Doctor [George] Downham’s Defence are Brought into Three Heads & Orderly Dissolved (William Ames, 1621) Ames wrote the Preface.
Baynes argues 3 questions, and answers them according to presbyterianism. First he gives the arguments of episcopacy for their positions on the 3 questions, and then he gives the arguments for presbyterianism.
Baynes was replying to this work: Downame, A Defence of the Sermon Preached at the Consecration of the L. Bishop of Bath… (London, 1611) 167 pp.
Yates, John
A Model of Divinity, Catechistically Composed, wherein is Delivered the Matter & Method of Religion According to the Creed, Ten Commandments, Lord’s Prayer & the Sacraments (London, 1622) 335 pp. Outline This volume contains the 30 page catechism that Baynes had published the year before as, A Short & Brief Sum of Saving Knowledge…
Yates (†1657) was a reformed, Anglican minister and cleric. He assisted as an editor of a number of the treatises of Jeremiah Burroughs, and helped to publish works of William Bridge. The puritan George Walker classed him with Richard Hooker and others as “men of good note in our church”.
God’s Arraignment of Hypocrites, with an Enlargement Concerning God’s Decree in Ordering Sin. As likewise a Defence of Mr. Calvin Against Bellarmine, & of Mr. Perkins Against Arminius (Cambridge, 1615) 413 pp. ToC 1, 2 on Ps. 50:21
Mayer, John
The English Catechism Explained… wherein Diverse Necessary Questions touching the Christian Faith are Inserted, Modern Controversies Handled, Doubts Resolved, & Many Cases of Conscience Cleared… 3rd ed. (London, 1623) 600 pp. ToC EEBO
Mayer (1583-1664) was a reformed Anglican clergyman. He was perhaps best known for his commentary on the entire Bible. The English Catechism spoken of was that printed in the Book of Common Prayer. For it, see ‘The Anglican Catechism, A.D. 1549, 1662’ at CCEL.
Mayer’s Catechism Abridged. Or the A.B.C. Enlarged… 2nd ed. enlarged (London, 1623) 76 pp. ToC This “second edition [was] made more complete and perfect by the Author.”
An Antidote Against Popery 72 pp. ToC EEBO appended to The English Catechism Explained (1623)
Ames, William
Systematic Works
The Marrow of Theology trans. John D. Eusden (1623; Baker, 1997) 353 pp. ToC
Ames (1576-1633) was an English, puritan, congregationalist, minister, philosopher and controversialist. He spent much time in the Netherlands, and is noted for his involvement in the controversy between the reformed and the Arminians.
The Substance of Christian Religion: or a Plain & Easy Draught of the Christian Catechism in 52 Lectures (London, 1659) 307 pp. ToC
English Puritanism, Containing the Main Opinions of the Rigidest Sort of those that are called Puritans in the Realm of England (London, 1641) 20 pp.
This covers in 6 chapters: the Church, ministers of the Church, elders, Church censures and the civil magistrate. It is congregationalistic (as opposed to presbyterian).
.
Other Works
Technometry trans. Lee W. Gibbs (Univ. of Pennsylvania Press, 1979) 215 pp. ToC
Conscience with the Power & Cases Thereof Divided into Five Books, bks 1-3 ([Leiden & London] 1639) Here is bk. 3, ch. 1, ‘Of Obedience’ (on GB, EEBO has missing pages) which deals only with obedience to God (not to men). Bks. 4-5 do not appear to be online.
A Fresh Suit Against Human Ceremonies in God’s Worship, or a Triplication unto Dr. Burgess’s Rejoinder for Dr. Morton ([Rotterdam?], 1633) ToC 1, 2 Index GB
Robinson, John
New Essays, or Observations Divine & Moral ToC in Works, vol. 1, pp. 1-260
Robinson (1576–1625) was a pilgrim father, a separatist (not recommended) and reformed in his soteriology.
A Defence of the Doctrine Propounded by the Synod at Dort ToC in Works, vol. 1, pp. 261-471
A Survey of the Confession of Faith Published in Certain Conclusions by the Remainders of Mr. Smyth’s Company ToC in Of Religious Communion, Private & Public in Works, vol. 3, pp. 237-79
A Catechism… being an Appendix to The Foundation of Christian Religion… by William Perkins in Works, vol. 3, pp. 421-36
Works, vol. 1, 2, 3 (London, 1851) ToC 1, 2, 3
Downame, John
The Sum of Sacred Divinity Briefly & Methodically Propounded: More Largely & Clearly Handled and Explained (London, 1625) 551 pp. ToC
Downame (1571–1652) was an Anglican, puritan clergyman and theologian in London, who came to prominence in the 1640s, when he worked closely with the Westminster Assembly. He was the younger brother of George Downame and is thought to have been the chief editor of the English Annotations (1645).
The Christian Warfare Against the Devil, World & Flesh (1604; Walter J. Johnson, 1974) 700 pp. ToC
Polyander, Rivet, Walaeus, Thysius – Synopsis of a Purer Theology Buy (1625; Brill, 2016)
Polyander (1568–1646); Rivet (1572–1651); Walaeus (1573–1639); Thysius (1622–1653). This standard and very influential Dutch textbook of systematic theology was compiled from the lectures of the four professors and their students.
For an introduction, and an English translation of the preface by Herman Bavinck to the 1800’s edition, see Henk van den Belt & Mathilde de Vries-van Uden, ‘Herman Bavinck’s Preface to the Synopsis Purioris Theologiae’ in Bavinck Review 8 (2017): 101–114.
Andrewes, Lancelot – A Pattern of Catechistical Doctrine & Other Minor Works (1626; Oxford, 1846) 393 pp. ToC
Andrewes (1555-1626) was a reformed, Anglican bishop and scholar who held high positions and oversaw the translation of the KJV.
Wolleb, Johannes – Abridgment of Christian Divinity Buy (London, 1626) 470 pp. Also see the contemporary edition in ed. John Beardslee, Reformed Dogmatics: J. Wollebius, G. Voetius & F. Turretin (Oxford Univ. Press, 1965), pp. 26-262 ToC
Wolleb (1589–1629) was a Swiss reformed theologian. He was a student of Amandus Polanus.
Ball, John
A Short Treatise Containing All the Principal Grounds of Christian Religion, by Way of Questions & Answers… whereunto are Added Several Questions… (London, 1631) 380 pp. ToC EEBO
Ball (1585–1640) was an English puritan and a non-separating, non-conformist, divine.
A Treatise of the Covenant of Grace (1645) 380 pp. ToC Index Scripture Index EEBO
A Treatise of Faith, Divided into Two Parts, the First sowing the Nature, the Second, the Life of Faith… (London, 1631) ToC
A Short Catechism Containing the Principles of Religion: Very Profitable for All Sorts of People (London, 1630)
Works Against Separatism & Independency (these contain mainy doctrinal issues)
A Friendly Trial of the Grounds Tending to Separation in a Plain & Modest Dispute… (1640) 314 pp. ToC
An Answer to Two Treatises of Mr. John Can, the Leader of the English Brownists in Amsterdam (London, 1642) 260 pp. ToC EEBO ToC
Ball, John, Simeon Ashe, William Rathband, et al. – A Trial of the New-Church Way in New-England & in Old… Sent Over to the New England Ministers, 1637, as a Reply to an Answer of Theirs in Justification of the Said Positions… IA (1637 & 1643/44)
“It is obvious that the Puritans, who obtained the charter of the Massachusetts Bay Company from Charles I and came to New England in 1630, were not Separatists. They, though being non-conformists, considered themselves as loyal members of the Church of England. Secession or separation from the national church, for them, was a sin of schism. Nevertheless, in less than seven years, Puritans in the mother country began to hear that their brethren in New England actually followed the ways of the Separatists.
Accordingly, in 1637, a formal and written communication was made, in which Puritans in England put forward “Nine Propositions,” to which their “Reverend and beloved Brethren” in the New World replied in 1639. This early debate was compiled by Simeon Ash and William Rathband and, four years later, published with John Ball’s ‘Reply’, under the title ‘A Letter of Many Ministers in Old England’…
The main purpose of these propositions was to find whether or not the New England brethren actually adopted the methods of the Separatists which they once denounced before they left England…
Many ministers in Old England… were surprised at the rumor about their brethren’s sudden turn to Separatism. Particularly, they were frightened when they received a report that the above nine propositions were practiced by New Englander ‘as the only Church way, wherein the Lord is to be worshipped.’
Of course, this report seemed to be exaggerated. Thus, John Cotton, representing “the Elders of the Churches in New England,” provided an answer to this letter in which he assured them that New England Congregational churches had nothing to do with “the ways of rigid separation.”…
Cotton’s above answer was sent to England in 1639 and Ball’s comments and reply were finished by 1640. For some reason, however, their works were not published until 1643.” – Sang Ahn, Covenant in Conflict, pp. 54-57
Davenant, John
A Treatise on Justification: or The Disputatio de Justitia Habituali et Actuali…, vol. 1, 2 trans. Josiah Allport (1631; London: 1844/46) ToC 1, 2
Davenant (1572–1641) was an English academic and bishop of Salisbury from 1621. He also served as one of the English delegates to the Synod of Dort. While generally in the reformed tradition, he had numerous objectionable views (some are noted below).
The Determinations, or Resolutions of Certain Theological Questions, Publicly Discussed in the University of Cambridge trans. Josiah Allport (1634; 1846) 300 pp. ToC bound at the end of John Davenant, A Treatise on Justification, or the Disputatio de Justitia... trans. Josiah Allport (1631; London, 1846), vol. 2, pp. 209-510
Most of the theses determined in this work are contra Romanism. Some of them show Davenant’s episcopal, Anglican leanings.
Baptismal Regeneration & the Final Perseverance of the Saints. A Letter to Dr. Samuel Ward trans. J. Allport (London, 1864) 30 pp. no ToC
Davenant argues for a form of baptismal regeneration, that original sin is taken from infants in the act. This view was argued against by Rutherford, John Edwards and numerous others of the reformed and is not recommended. The work is important in understanding the historical context of the early 1600’s.
A Dissertation on the Death of Christ, as to its Extent & Special Benefits: Containing a Short History of Pelagianism, and Showing the Agreement of the Doctrines of the Church of England on General Redemption, Election & Predestination with the Primitive Fathers of the Christian Church, & Above All with the Holy Scriptures as bound at the end of vol. 2 of his Exposition of Colossians trans. Josiah Allport (London, 1832) 290 pp. ToC Index of Questions General Index Scripture Index
Davenant was a hypothetical universalist with respect to the atonement, involving a form of a general atonement (not recommended).
Animadversions… upon a Treatise Entitled, God’s Love to Mankind [by Samuel Hoard] (Cambridge: 1641) 536 pp. no ToC
Kellet, Edward – Miscellanies of Divinity, Divided into Three Books, wherein is Explained at Large the Estate of the Soul in her Origination, Separation, Particular Judgement & Conduct to Eternal Bliss or Torment (Cambridge, 1635) 237 pp. ToC Index Scripture Index
Kellet (1583-1641) was a doctor of divinity and a calvinistic, Anglican, canon in the cathedral church at Exeter.
Cradock, Samuel – Knowledge & Practice: Or a Plain Discourse of the Chief Things Necessary in Order to be Known, Believed & Practised in Order to Salvation. Useful for Private Families (1659/1673) 156 pp. ToC
Cradock (c.1620-1706) was a reformed, congregationalist, non-conformist tutor in England.
“One of the best systems of divinity which a plain man can read.” – David Bogue (a congregationalist)
Stoughton, John
A Form of Wholesome Words, or, An Introduction to the Body of Divinity in Three Sermons on 2 Tim. 1:13 (London, 1640) 118 pp. ToC
Stoughton (1593-1639) was a reformed English minister.
A Learned Treatise in Three Parts: 1. the Definition, 2. the Distribution of Divinity, 3. the Happiness of Man; as it was Scholastically Handled (London, 1640) 100 pp. ToC
The Heavenly Conversation & the Natural Man’s Condition, in Two Treatises (London, 1640) 238 pp. Outline 1, 2
Rutherford, Samuel
Systematics
Rutherford’s Examination of Arminianism: the Tables of Contents with Excerpts from Every Chapter trans. Charles Johnson & Travis Fentiman (1639-42; 1668; ReformedBooksOnline, 2019) 135 pp.
Rutherford (c. 1600–1661) was a Scottish covenanter and Westminster divine.
The closest thing Rutherford wrote to systematic theology was his Examination of Arminianism. As Arminians erred on nearly every point of theology, refuting their rising, popular system gave Rutherford the opportunity to survey the gamut of theology. Rutherford addresses topics here nowhere addressed in his books written in English.
A Catechism Containing the Sum of Christian Religion 80 pp. Buy in ed. Alexander Mitchell, Catechisms of the Second Reformation… (London: James Nisbet, 1886), pp. 161-242
Soteriology
Christ Dying & Drawing Sinners to Himself… Buy (London, 1647) 67 pp. EEBO
A Survey of the Spiritual Antichrist Opening the Secrets of Familism & Antinomianism… (London, 1648) 630 pp. EEBO
The Trial & Triumph of Faith… Buy (1652; Edinburgh: Free Church of Scotland, 1845) 405 pp. EEBO
The Covenant of Life Opened, or, A Treatise of the Covenant of Grace Containing Something of the Nature of the Covenant of Works, the Sovereignty of God, the Extent of the Death of Christ… Buy (Edinburgh, 1655) 380 pp. EEBO
Influences of the Life of Grace, or a Practical Treatise Concerning the Way, Manner, & Means of having & Improving of Spiritual Dispositions, & Quickening Influences from Christ… (London, 1659) 438 pp. ToC
On Ecclesiology
A Peaceable & Temperate Plea for Paul’s Presbytery in Scotland… (London, 1642) 350 pp. EEBO ToC
The Due Right of Presbyteries… (London, 1644) EEBO
The Divine Right of Church Government & Excommunication… (London, 1646) EEBO ToC
A Survey of the Survey of that Sum of Church Discipline… (London, 1658) 521 pp.
On Politics
Lex, Rex: The Law & the Prince… Buy (1644; Edinburgh, 1843) 305 pp. ToC EEBO
A Free Disputation Against Pretended Liberty of Conscience… Buy (London, 1649) EEBO ToC
Davenport. John – The Profession of the Faith of that Reverend & Worthy Divine, Mr. J. D…. Made Publicly before the Congregation at his Admission into One of the Churches of God in New-England. Containing Twenty Several Heads… (London, 1642) 8 pp. ToC
Davenport (1597-1670) was an Anglican, puritan clergyman. Later he was a co-founder of the American colony of New Haven and an Independent, puritan minister (which this work reflects).
Bernard, Richard
The Bible’s Abstract & Epitome, the Capital Heads, Examples, Sentences, & Precepts of All the Principal Matters in Theology: Collected Together for the Most Part Alphabetically, with the Doctrine & Uses Compendiously Explained of All the Chief Points therein Contained, Taken out of the Best Modern Divines (London, 1642) 176 pp. Index
Bernard (1568–1641) was an reformed, English, non-conforming but anti-separatist, puritan minister. He was also a Cambridge graduate and a prolific, religious writer. He wrote a tract opposing the Anglican Prayer-Book.
He was presbyterian in his ideal, as is seen in his ‘A Short Draught of Church Government’ in A Short View of the Prælatical Church of England, wherein is set forth the Horrible Abuses in Discipline & Government (London, 1641). Bernard also has works against episcopalianism and regarding witchcraft, and the prosecution thereof, as well as other more practical works.
Contemplative Pictures with Wholesome Precepts. The First Part: Of God; of the Devil; of Goodness; of Badness; of Heaven & of Hell (London, 1610) 134 pp. ToC
This has some extended systematic statements as to those topics it treats, with practical appliations following.
A Threefold Treatise of the Sabbath: Distinctly Divided into the Patriarchal, the Mosaical, the Christian Sabbath… (London, 1641) 225 pp. ToC 1, 2, 3
Christian, See to thy Conscience, or a Treatise of the Nature, the Kinds & Manifold Differences of Conscience… (London, 1631) 408 pp.
Expositions of Catechisms & the Creed
A Double Catechism, One More Large, Following the Order of the Common Authorized Catechism, & an Exposition Thereof (Cambridge, 1607) 43 pp.
The second catechism expounded is the catechism contained in the Anglican Book of Common Prayer. For that catechism, see ‘The Anglican Catechism, A.D. 1549, 1662’ at CCEL.
Joshua’s Godly Resolution in Conference with Caleb, Touching Household Government for Well-Ordering a Family with a Twofold Catechism for Instruction of Youth; the First Short, for the Weaker Sort, set forth in Six Principal Points; the Latter Large for Other of Greater Growth, & Follows the Order of the Common Authorized Catechism, & is an Explanation Thereof (London, 1612) 96 pp. This is similar to the first, larger catechism above, but it is expanded.
The Common Catechism with a Commentary Thereupon, by Questions & Answers… (London, 1630) 46 pp. This is different than all the above.
The ‘Common Catechism’ was the catechism included in the Anglican Book of Common Prayer.
Good Christian, Look to thy Creed: for a True Trial of an Holy Profession, & of the Truth of Religion from All Crooked by-paths (London, 1630) 34 pp. no ToC This is in catechetical form, exposits the Apostles’ Creed, and is different than all of the above.
Works Against Separatism & Independency
“Bernard was brought into union and communion with the separatists, but treacherously and basely as they alleged, conscientiously as he himself affirmed, withdrew from them. Thereupon commenced his invectives and their replies.” – DNB
“His daughter Mary married Roger Williams, co-founder of the state of Rhode Island, in 1629.” – Wikipedia
32 Questions (1639)
“Meanwhile [near the same time as the inquiring letter from the Old England ministers was received by the New England churches], New England churches received another similar inquiry from Richard Bernard of Batcombe, who proposed “Thirty-Two Questions.”
In reply, Richard Mather provided an answer under the title Church Government and Church Covenant Discussed (1643). Compared with the “Nine Propositions,” [of the Old England ministers] Bernard’s “Thirty-Two Questions” are more sophisticated, which are designed to find both the theological and the biblical foundation of the Congregational practices.” – Sang Ahn, Covenant in Conflict, pp. 57
Maccovius, John – Scholastic Discourse: The Distinctions & Rules of Theology & Philosophy Buy (1644)
Maccovius (1588–1644) was a reformed, supralapsarian Polish theologian. These distinctions and rules are laid out in systematic form, in 23 chapters.
Ussher, James
A Body of Divinity, or the Sum & Substance of Christian Religion Catechistically Propounded & Explained by Way of Question & Answer… (London, 1645) 451 pp. Heads ToC
Ussher (1581–1656) was the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland between 1625 and 1656. He was a prolific scholar and church leader.
See also the later, remodified edition of this work:
A Body of Divinity, or the Sum & Substance of the Christian Religion… a New Edition, Reduced from the Original Form of Question & Answer… ed. Hastings Robinson (1645; London: 1841)
Shorter Systematic Pieces
The Principles of Christian Religion Summarily set down according to the Word of God: Together with a Brief Epittome of the Body of Divinity (London, 1645) 114 pp. ToC
‘A Discourse of the Religion Anciently Professed by the Irish & British’ (1631) in Works (Dublin: 1847), vol. 4, pp. 235-40
‘Articles of Religion Agreed upon by the Archbishops & Bishops & the Rest of the Clergy of Ireland’ (1615) in Works (1847), vol. 1, appendix 4, pp. xxi-l
‘The Principles of Christian Religion’ 20 pp. in Works, vol. 11, pp. 177-96
‘The Method of the Doctrine of Christian Religion’ 25 pp. in Works, vol. 11, pp. 197-220
Other Doctrinal Works
Eighteen Sermons Preached in Oxford, 1640, of Conversion unto God, of Redemption & Justification by Christ… (London, 1660) ToC Index
An Answer to a Challenge Made by a Jesuit in Ireland wherein the Judgment of Antiquity in the Points Questioned is Truly Delivered & the Novelty of the Now Romish Doctrine Plainly Discovered 583 pp. beign the whole of Works (1847), vol. 3 ToC EEBO
Twenty Sermons Preached at Oxford before His Majesty, & Elsewhere… (London, 1678) 175 pp. Index
On Church Government
Episcopal & Presbyterial Government Conjoined, Proposed as an Expedient for the Compromising of the Differences, & Preventing of those Troubles about the Matter of Church-Government (London, 1679) 13 pp. ToC
Ussher has numerous other works advocating for his form of episcopal-presbyterian Church government which he claimed was from the early Church.
Roberts, Francis – A Synopsis of Theology, or Divinity Buy (1645) 10 pp.
Roberts (1609–1675) was an English puritan, presbyterian, minister, author and librarian.
Fisher, Edward – The Marrow of Modern Divinity Buy (1645)
Fisher (fl. 1627-1655) was a gentleman; he was noted for his knowledge of ecclesiastical history and classical languages. He was a royalist, and an upholder of the festivals of the church against the Puritans. He based the obligation of the Lord’s day purely on ecclesiastical authority, declining to consider it a Sabbath.
This work became popular in Scotland in the early 1700’s (and since) at its republication by the influence of Thomas Boston. It covers covenant theology, the Law, soteriology, sanctification and practical living, and so hits many or most of the topics of systematic theology.
Collier, Thomas – The Marrow of Christianity, or, a Spiritual Discovery of Some Principles of Truth meet to be known of All the Saints: Represented in Ten Sections (1650) 112 pp. ToC
Collier (fl.1647-1691) was a baptist. John Saltmarsh, an Antinomian, wrote a commendatory letter to the reader in this volume, saying that he was glad to read “that no difference of outward administration, or Ordinances, should divide Christians that are baptized into one Spirit; which truth I did much rejoice to see from his pen…”
Fenner, William – The Spiritual Man’s Directory. Guiding a Christian in the Path that Leads to True Blessedness in his Three Main Duties towards God: How to Believe, to Obey & to Pray, Unfolding the Creed, 10 Commandments & the Lord’s Prayer (London, 1648) 153 pp. ToC
Fenner (1600–1640) was an English, non-conformist, puritan divine, practical writer and casuist.
Martindale, Adam – Divinity-Knots Unloosed: or a Clear Discovery of Truth; by Resolving Many Doubts according to Scripture, Orthodox Divines & Sound Reason (London, 1649) ToC Scripture Index
Martindale (1623-1686) was an English presbyterian minister who had taken the Solemn League & Covenant.
Binning, Hugh – The Works Buy (1653; Edinburgh, 1851) 715 pp. ToC
Binning (1627–1653) was a Scottish covenanting minister (a protester), philosopher and theologian. The first book in his works specifically, ‘The Common Principles of the Christian Religion’, treats of much of Christian theology in 25 sermons.
Lyford, William
The Instructed Christian, or the Plain Man’s Senses Exercised to Discern Both Good & Evil, being a Discovery of the Errors, Heresies & Blasphemies of these Times, & the Toleration of them… (1655; Philadelphia, 1847) 335 pp. ToC
Lyford (†1653) was an English, reformed, nonconformist clergyman, elected to the Westminster Assembly, though he did not sit in it.
Principles of Faith & Good Conscience: Digested into a Catechetical Form… 2nd ed. (Oxford, 1650) 318 pp. The ToC is on image 5.
An Apology for our Public Ministery & Infant-Baptism… (London, 1653) 45 pp. no ToC
Dury, John
A Summary Platform of the Heads of a Body of Practical Divinity (1654) 12 pp. with a letter from Archbishop James Ussher recommending that such a body of practical divinity be written
John Dury (1596-1680) grew up with connections to the heads of state, and was advised by an eminent chaplain that to reconcile the divisions of the protestant churches would be the greatest work of peacemaking (Matt 5:9) that one could do. Dury subsequently devoted his entire adult life’s work to this end, with indefatigable journeys, letter writing and conferencing among the leading church figures of the day. The titles of his many writings also bear out this purpose.
This particular work is the first part of a brief summary outline of practical scriptural living and ethics, intended as an ecumenical effort to unite churches abroad. Previous to this work, a letter was written by William Gouge, Obadiah Sedgwick and others to James Ussher asking him to lead a joint project to write such a body of divinity. Ussher was favorable to the project but it was interrupted by the English Civil War. Other signers to this effort included: John Downame, George Walker, Adoniram Byfield, Sidrach Simpson, Richard Culverwell, George Hughes and Joseph Symonds. Dury ended up writing the desired outline of practical divinity. HT: Andrew Myers.
The Earnest Breathings of Foreign Protestants, Divines & Others to the Ministers & Other Able Christians of these Three Nations for a Complete Body of Practical Divinity… & an Essay of a Model of the Said Body of Divinity (London, 1658) 57 pp. ToC
This work also contains an appended letter by William Gouge, Obadiah Sedgwick and others to James Ussher asking him to lead a joint project to write a body of divinity. Ussher was favorable to the project but it was interrupted by the English Civil War. Other signers included: John Downame, George Walker, Adoniram Byfield, Sidrach Simpson, Richard Culverwell, George Hughes and Joseph Symonds. HT: Andrew Myers.
Leigh, Edward
A System or Body of Divinity… (London, 1654) 873 pp. Extended ToC Index
Leigh (1602-1671) was an English lay writer, including on theology, and a Westminster divine. He was also a politician that sat in the House of Commons from 1645 to 1648. He served as a colonel in the Parliamentary Army during the English Civil War.
Brief ToC
Bk. 1, Scriptures 1
Bk. 2, God 121
Bk. 3, God’s Works 216
Bk. 4, Fall of Man, Sin Original & Actual 303
Bk. 5, Man’s Recovery by Christ 389
Bk. 6, Church & Antichrist 447
Bk. 7, Union & Communion with Christ 485
Bk. 8, Ordinances or Religious Duties 605
Bk. 9, Moral Law 749
Bk. 10, Glorification 857
A Treatise of the Divine Promises in Five Books: in the First, a General Description of their Nature, Kinds, Excellency, Right Use, Properties & the Persons to whom they Belong; in the Four Last, a Declaration of the Covenant Itself (London, 1641) Extended ToC Index Scripture Index
Brief ToC
Bk. 1, Nature, Kinds, Excellency, Right Use & Properties of the Promises, & to whom they Belong 1
Bk. 2, Of the Covenant; Promises are General or Special; The Temporal Promises 111
Bk. 3, Spititual Promises, Infirmities, Desertions, Degrees of Grace, Spritiual Duties, Ordinances of God 215
Bk. 4, Eternal Promises, Comforts, Last Judgment 415
Bk. 5, Promises for the Church, Against Antichrist, Calling of the Jews, Bringing in the Gentiles, to Magistrates, to Fathers & Wives, for Company 428
Norton, John
Norton (1606-1663) was a puritan divine in England and an ordained, congregationalist teacher in Massachusetts. In 1635 he went to New England. He was an active member of the convention that formed The Cambridge Platform in 1648, and was a contributor to its drafting. He succeeded John Cotton as minister at the first church in Boston. In the following years, Norton became a leading opponent of the Antinomians and Quakers in New England. He wrote the biography of John Cotton.
The Orthodox Evangelist, or a Treatise wherein Many Great Evangelical Truths are Briefly Discussed, Cleared & Confirmed (1654) 355 pp. ToC Index
van Mastricht, Peter – Theoretical-Practical Theology, 7 vols. 2nd ed. Buy (1698; RHB, 2018 ff.)
van Mastricht (1630–1706) was a Dutch reformed theologian and professor.
The systematic of the German born, Dutch professor of theology, following in the Voetian tradition, is currently being translated from the Latin into English by the Dutch Reformed Translation Society.
Jeanes, Henry
Jeanes (1611-1662) was a puritan minister.
A Second Part of The Mixture of Scholastical Divinity with Practical in Several Tractates (1660) 360 pp. Extended ToC Scripture Index
On the Indifferency of Human Actions 1
On Abstinence from All Appearance of Evil, 1 Thess. 5:22 67
Of the Last & General Judgement, Rom. 2:16 173
On the Nature of Thanksgiving, Eph. 5:20 257
Of Original Righteousness & its Contrary, Concupiscence [contra Jeremy Taylor] 279
The Malignant Influence or Causality of Concupiscence, Jam. 1:14-15 318
The Created & Lapsed Condition of Man, Eccl. 7:29 346
Certain Letters of Jeanes & Dr. Jeremy Taylor Concerning his further Explication of Original Sin
Taylor’s Passage
To the Reader
The Letters of Jeanes & Taylor Alternating 1-48
Uniformity in Human Doctrinal Ceremonies Ungrounded on 1 Cor. 14:40 [contra Henry Hammond, alternating] 1-88
Arrowsmith, John – A Chain of Principles, or an Orderly Concatenation of Theological Aphorisms & Exercitations, wherein the Chief Heads of Christian Religion are Asserted & Improved (Cambridge, 1659) 525 pp. ToC
Arrowsmith (1602–1659) was an English minister, theologian, covenanter, Westminster divine, scholar and a professor of divinity at Cambridge.
Clarke, Samuel – Medulla Theologiae, or the Marrow of Divinity Contained in Sundry Questions & Cases of Conscience, both Speculative & Practical, the Greatest Part of them Collected out of the Works of our Most Judicious, Experienced & Orthodox English Divines (London, 1659) 458 pp. ToC Index
This Samuel Clarke (1599-1682) was reformed, a puritan in the Church of England and a writer of ecclesiastical biographies. He is to be distinguished from the Bible Annotator Samuel Clarke (1626–1701), who was a non-conformist and had Baxterian influences.
Lawson, George – Theo-Politica, or a Body of Divinity Containing the Rules of the Special Government of God According to which He orders the Immortal & Intellectual Creatures, Angels & Men to their Final & Eternal Estate: being a Method of those Saving Truths which are contained in the Canon of the Holy Scripture, & Abridged in those Words of our Savior Jesus Christ, which were the ground & foundation of those Apostolical Creeds & Forms of Confessions, Related by the Ancients, & in Particular by Irenæus & Tertullian Buy (London, 1659) 305 pp. ToC
Lawson (1598–1678) was an Anglican clergyman, divine and writer, who supported the Parliament during the Commonwealth. Note that his religious views inclined to Arminianism. He was a protégé of William Laud. His Theo-Politica, or a Body of Divinity, was commended by Baxter.
Pearson, John – An Exposition of the [Apostles’] Creed (1659; London, 1902) 690 pp. ToC See also An Analysis, or a detailed outline of this work by W.H. Mill (Cambrdige, 1884) 180 pp.
Pearson (1613–1686) was an Anglican bishop and scholar. This exposition of the Apostle’s Creed was the most widely used Anglican body of divinity in the post-Restoration (1660) Church of England. The content of it was originally lectures to his congregation; they contain a mine of patristic learning. Pearson was somewhat reformed.
“Pearson, maintained the Arminian view of conditional election, in his Lectiones de Deo et Attributis (1660). On the other hand… Pearson upheld a Calvinist position on the doctrines of election and grace both in his Exposition [of the Creed] (1659) and his Cambridge lectures, and did so explicitly against the Arminians…” – Wikipedia
Dickson, David – Truth’s Victory Over Error: or the True Principles of the Christian Religion Buy (Glasgow, 1662) 290 pp. Index
Dickson (1583–1663) was a leading Scottish covenanter. This was the first positive commentary on the Westminster Confession. It is polemical in nature.
Stone, Samuel
The Whole Body of Divinity in a Catechetical Way Handled (Hartford, CT: probably sometimes between 1647-1663) 950 pp. as transcribed by Samuel Willard
Stone (1602-1663) was a New England puritan. This was the first comprehensive theology produced in the American colonies. See the Congregational Library & Archives for more background.
Samuel Stone’s Catechism: reissued with an Introductory Sketch, from the original edition printed in 1684 ([Hartford, Conn.], 1899) There is a lengthy introduction; the catechism starts here and is only 12 pages.
Voetius, Gisbert
ed. John Beardslee – Reformed Dogmatics: Seventeenth-Century Reformed Theology Buy (Univ. of Oxford Press, 1965)
‘Concerning Practical Theology’
Voet (1589–1676) was a Dutch reformed theologian.
‘Concerning Precision in Interpretation of Questions 94, 113, & 115 of the [Heidelberg] Catechism’
Appendix 2, ‘The Use of Reason in the Matters of Faith’ in Introduction to Reformed Scholasticism in Reformed Historical-Theological Studies (RHB, 2011)
Spiritual Desertion trans. John Vriend & Harry Boonstra in Classics of Reformed Spirituality Buy (Baker Academic, 2003) 176 pp.
Ambrose, Isaac
Looking unto Jesus, as Carrying on the Great Work of Man’s Salvation, or A View of the Everlasting Gospel Buy ToC
Ambrose (1604-1664) was an English puritan divine. He was one of the king’s four preachers in Lancashire in 1631. He was twice imprisoned by commissioners of array. He worked for the establishment of Presbyterianism and was ejected for nonconformity in 1662.
The First, Middle & Last Things
The first things are regeneration and the beginning of the godly life. The middle things are secret, private and public ordinances for sanctification. The last things are meditations on life, death, judgment, hell, the sufferings of Christ and heaven.
Gouge, Thomas – The Principles of Religion Explained to the Capacity of the Meanest, with Practical Applications to Each Head (1668) 128 pp.
Gouge (1601-1681) was the son of William Gouge; he was an English presbyterian clergyman and associated with the Puritan movement.
Baxter, Richard
Aphorisms of Justification, with their Explication Annexed wherein also is Opened the Nature of the Covenants, Satisfaction, Righteousness, Faith, Works, etc. (1655) 333 pp.
Baxter (1615-1691) was an English, puritan, Congregationalist minister, poet, hymnodist, theologian and controversialist, who was not altogether orthodox.
This was Baxter’s first printed book, and his most controversial book. Here he lays out his erroneous theological articulation of Justification and related themes, which earned his paradigm the name, ‘Baxterianism’ and ‘Neo-nomianism’ (which means, ‘New-Law’). Baxter went on to further qualify much in this book in later writings, but continued to hold to the heart of it till his death. On this work, and numerous of the works below, see William Orme’s survey of his doctrinal works in Life & Writings of Baxter, ch. 2, ‘Doctrinal Works’ in Baxter’s Practical Works, vol. 1.
Despite Baxter’s serious doctrinal problems, J.I. Packer could refer to him as “The most outstanding pastor, evangelist and writer on practical and devotional themes that Puritanism produced.”
Richard Baxter’s Confession of his Faith, Especially Concerning the Interest of Repentance & Sincere Obedience to Christ in our Justification & Salvation (1655)
On this, see Orme, bottom of p. 455 ff.
The Divine Life in Three Treatises (London, 1664) ToC 1, 2, 3
1. Of the Knowledge of God and the Impression which it must make upon the Heart; and its Necessary Effects upon our Lives
2. The Description, Reasons & Reward of the Believer’s Walking with God
3. The Christian’s Converse with God: or the Insufficiency & Uncertainty of Human Friendship & the Improvement of Solitude in Converse with God
An End of Doctrinal Controversies which have Lately Troubled the Churches by Reconciling Explication, without much Disputing (1691) 365 pp. ToC
This is the closest thing that Baxter has to a systematic theology in English. Note his significant errors regarding Justification, the Covenant, the definition of Faith, the nature and extent of the Atonement, etc.
Catholic Theology, Plain, Pure, Peaceable, for Pacification of the Dogmatical Word-Warriors Oxf (1675) 118 pp.
12 conferences, or disputations, with various opponents on all sides regarding soteriology.
On the very significant, erroneous, ecumenical design and method of Baxter in this work, and his works in general, see:
Trueman, Carl – pp. 242-45 of Appendix 2, ‘Owen, Baxter & the Threefold Office’ in The Claims of Truth: John Owen’s Trinitarian Theology (Paternoster, 1998)
The Protestant Religion Truly Stated & Justified (1692) 240 pp.
Baxter corrects 52 misrepresentations of Protestantism from the accusations of Romanists.
A Christian Directory: a Sum of Practical Theology and Cases of Conscience, vols. 1, 2,3, 4, 5 Buy (1673) ToC
This work, with his Latin work, Method of Christian Theology, was intended to comprise a whole body of divinity (the theological in Latin and the practical in English). This work includes four parts: (1) Christian Ethics (Private Duties), (2) Christian Economics (Family Duties), (3) Christian Ecclesiastics (Church Duties), and (4) Christian Politics (Corporate/Civic Duties). These volumes do not contain Baxter’s errors on justification found in other works of his.
“The most outstanding pastor, evangelist and writer on practical and devotional themes that Puritanism produced.” – J.I. Packer
Polhill, Edward
The Divine Will Considered in its Eternal Decrees & Holy Execution of Them (London, 1695) 540 pp. ToC
Polhill (c.1622-c.1694) was a lawyer, justice of the peace and a non-conformist, lay theologian.
Speculum Theologiæ in Christo [a View of Theology in Christ], or, A View of Some Divine Truths which are either Practically Exemplified in Jesus Christ, set forth in the Gospel, or may be Reasonably Deduced from Thence (London, 1678) 449 pp. ToC
Polhill was an infralapsarian (p. 45), held to God’s vindictive justice being essential to Him (p. 231) and was a hypothetical universalist (pp. 290-91).
An Answer to the Discourse of Mr. William Sherlock, Touching the Knowledge of Christ & our Union & Communion with Him (London, 1675) 621 pp.
“…a little touching Mr. Sherlock’s book. When I read it, I thought my self in a new theological world: believers appearing without their Head for want of a mystical union, stripped and naked for lack of imputed righteousness; the full treasures of grace in Christ, which have supplied all the vessels of faith, emptied out of his sacred person and transfused into the doctrine of the Gospel, as if, according to Pelagius, all grace were in doctrine only: The Holy Spirit, the great origin of graces and comforts in its illumination, seems to be superfluous, in its testimony to believers an enthusiastical fancy, and in the work of regeneration, if any, at most but a partial co-cause, parting stakes with the will of man: faith in Abel and Enoch lying as low as natural principles…
The immutable love of God, the only cement of the Church, seems to be turned off from Persons to qualities… The Pontifician thesis touching justification by inherent righteousness seems to be revived afresh, and that in a way less tolerable than among the Romanists… Among other truths none have had a greater share of suffering than those two, touching our mystical union with Christ and the imputation of Christ’s righteousness to us; both which are to me very momentous.” – To the Reader
Essay on the Extent of the Death of Christ, from the Treatise on the Divine Will [ch. 8, pp. 281-346] (Burwick, 1842) 33 pp.
Polhill was a hypothetical universalist.
Christus in Corde, or The Mystical Union Between Christ & Believers Considered in its Resemblances, Bonds, Seals, Privileges & Marks (London, 1680) 304 pp. ToC
Precious Faith, Considered in its Nature, Working & Growth (London, 1675) 461 pp. Index
The Samaritan, showing that Many & Unnecessary Impositions are Not the Oil that must Heal the Church, Together with the Way or Means to do it… (London, 1682) 119 pp.
A Discourse of Schism (London, 1694) 104 pp.
Polhill defends non-conformists separating from the Church of England as not schismatic in this treatise. Yet, Polhill attended established Anglican worship services, per the full title of his book, The Samaritan…
Rijssen, Leonard – A Complete Summary of Elenctic Theology & of as Much Didactic Theology as is Necessary trans. J. Wesley White MTh thesis (Bern, 1676; GPTS, 2009) 316 pp. with an Introduction by White
Rijssen (1636?-1700?) was a prominent Dutch reformed minister and theologian, active in theological controversies.
Gale, Theophilus – Book 2 of vol. 4, ‘Of Reformed Philosophy’ of The Court of the Gentiles (London, 1677)
Gale (1628–1678) was a non-conforming, English, puritan, Congregationalist minister, theologian, educationalist and ally of Thomas Goodwin.
This covers the doctrine of God, Creation & Providence. Book 1 covers ‘Moral Philosophy’, including the doctrine of Sin.
Vincent, Thomas – An Explicatory Catechism; or, An Explanation of the Assembly’s Shorter Catechism Buy
Vincent (1634–1678) was an English, puritan, Presbyterian, minister and author.
Turretin, Francis
Institutes of Elenctic Theology, 3 vols. ed. James Dennison Jr. Buy (1679–1685; P&R, 1992)
Turretin (1623–1687) was a Genevan-Italian, reformed, scholastic theologian.
vol. 1
Turretin’s Dedication, ‘The Importance of Godly Rulers’
Locus 1, Theology
Question 1, ‘Should the word “theology” be used in the Christian schools, and in how many ways can it be understood?’
Question 2, ‘Whether there is a theology and its divisions.’
Question 3, ‘Whether natural theology may be granted.’
The Object of Theology
Question 5, ‘Are God and Divine things the Object of Divine Knowledge. We affirm.’
Fundamental Articles & Errors
Question 14, ‘Are some theological topics fundamental, others not; and how can they be mutually distinguished?’, section 19
Locus 2, The Holy Scriptures: the Word of God, Questions 1-21
1. ‘Was revelation by the Word necessary? We affirm.’
The Necessity of Scripture
2. ‘Was it necessary for the Word to be committed to writing? We affirm.’
3. ‘Was the Holy Scripture written because of the circumstances of the time (occasionaliter), and without divine command? We deny against the papists.’
The Authority of the Holy Scriptures
4. ‘Are the Holy Scriptures genuine and divine? We affirm.’
5. ‘Are there in Scripture true contradictions, or any irreconcilable passages, which cannot be resolved or harmonized in any way? We deny.’
6. ‘From what source does the divine authority of the Scriptures become known to us? Does it depend upon the testimony of the Church either as to itself or as to us? We deny against the papists.’
The Canon
7. ‘Has any canonical book perished? We deny.’
8. ‘Are the books of the Old Testament still a part of the canon of faith and rule of practice in the Church of the New Testament? We affirm against the Anabaptists.’
The Apocryphal Books
9. ‘Ought Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Ecclesiasticus, the two first books of the Maccabees, Baruch, the additions to Esther and Daniel to be numbered among the canonical books? We deny against the Papists.’
The Purity of the Sources
10. ‘Have the original texts of the Old and New Testaments come down to us pure and uncorrupted? We affirm against the papists.’
The Authentic Version
11. ‘Are the Hberew version of the Old Testament and the Greek of the New the only authentic versions? We affirm against the papists.’
12. ‘Is the present Hebrew text in things as well as words so authentic and inspired (theopneustos) in such a sense that all the extant versions are to be referred to it as a rule and, wherever they vary, to be corrected by it? Or may we desert the reading it supplies, if judged less appropriate, and correct it either by a comparison of ancient translators or by suitable (stochastike) judgment and conjecture and follow another more suitable reading? We affirm the former and deny the latter.’
Versions
13. ‘Are versions necessary, and what ought to be their true use and authority in the Church?’
The Septuagint
14. ‘Is the Septuagint version of the Old Testament authentic? We deny.’
The Vulgate
15. ‘Is the Vulgate authentic? We deny against the papists’
The Perfection of the Scripture
16. ‘Do the Scriptures so perfectly contain all things necessary to salvation that there is no need of unwritten (agraphois) traditions after it? We affirm against the papists.’
The Perspicuity of the Scriptures
17. ‘Are the Scriptures so perspicuous in things necessary to salvation that they can be understood by believers without the external help of oral (agraphou) tradition or ecclesiastical authority? We affirm against the papists.’
The Reading of the Scriptures
18. ‘Can the Scriptures be profitably read by any believer, and ought he to read them without permission? We affirm against the papists.’
The Sense of the Scriptures
19. ‘Whether the Scriptures have a fourfold sense: literal, allegorical, anagogical and tropological. We deny against the papists.’
The Supreme Judge of Controversies & Interpreter of the Scriptures
20. ‘Whether the Scriptures (or God speaking in them) are the supreme and infallible judge of controversies and the interpreter of the Scriptures. Or whether the Church or the Roman pontiff is. We affirm the former and deny the latter against the papists.’
The Authority of the Fathers
21. ‘Are the writings of the fathers the rule of truth in doctrines of faith and in the interpretation of the Scriptures? We deny against the papists.’
Locus 3, The One & Triune God
Question 1, ‘Can the existence of God be irrefutably demonstrated against atheists? We affirm.’
The Simplicity of God
Question 7, ‘Is God most simple and free from all composition? We affirm against Socinus and Vorstius’
The Will of God, excerpts from:
Question 14, ‘Does God will some things necessarily and others freely? We affirm.’
Question 16, ‘May the will be properly distinguished into antecedent and consequent, efficacious and inefficacious, conditional and absolute? We deny.’
The Goodness, Love, Grace & Mercy of God
Question 20, ‘How do they differ from each other?’, section 4
Locus 4, Questions 1-17, ‘Concerning the Decrees of God in General, Predestination in Particular’ 122 pp. in ed. John Beardslee, Reformed Dogmatics… (Oxford Univ. Press, 1965)
Question 3, ‘Are there conditional decrees? We deny against the Socinians, Remonstrants and Jesuits.’
Predestination
Question 6, ‘Ought predestination to be publicly taught and preached? We affirm.’
The Object of Predestination
Question 9, ‘Whether the Object of Predestination was Man Creatable, or Capable of Falling; or whether as Created and Fallen. The Former we Deny; the latter we Affirm’ 8 pp.
Reprobation
Question 17, ‘Can there be attributed to God any conditional will, or universal purpose of pitying the whole human race fallen in sin, of destinating Christ as Mediator to each and all, and of calling them all to a saving participation of his benefits? We deny’, section 8, 21, 34, 38, 39, 41, 45-47
Locus 5, Creation
The Origin of the Soul
Question 13, ‘Are Souls Created by God, or are they Propagated? We affirm the former and deny the latter.’
Locus 6, The Actual Providence of God
Question 6, ‘How can the concourse of God be reconciled with the contingency and liberty of second causes–especially of the will of man?’
Locus 8, The State of Man before the Fall & the Covenant of Nature
Question 1, ‘What was the liberty of Adam in his state of innocence?’, sections 1, 2, 7, 9
Question 2, ‘Did Adam have the power to believe in Christ?’, section 1, 4, 9
The Covenant of Nature
Question 3, ‘Whether God made any covenant with Adam, and what kind it was’, sections 4-17
vol. 2
Locus 11, The Law of God
Question 1, ‘Whether there is a natural law, and how it differs from the moral law. The former we affirm; the latter we distinguish’, section 15
The 2nd Commandment–the Worship of Images
Question 10, ‘Images of Christ Are Unlawful, Even If Not Used For Worship’
The 4th Commandment & the Lord’s Day
The Abrogation of the Moral Law
Question 23, ‘Whether the moral law is abrogated entirely under the New Testament. Or whether in a certain respect it still pertains to Christians. The former we deny; the latter we affirm against the Antinomians.’, sections 5-7
The Ceremonial Law
Question 24, ‘What was the end and use of the ceremonial law under the Old Testament?’, sections 1-5
Locus 12, The Covenant of Grace & its Twofold Economy in the Old & New Testaments Summary
Question 1, ‘The origin and meaning of the words bryth, diathekes, foedus, epangelias and evangelium used here.’, section 1
Locus 13, The Person and State of Christ
The Conception & Nativity of Christ
Question 11, ‘How was Christ conceived from the Holy Spirit and born of the blessed Virgin’, sections 21-25 (on Mary being a perpetual virgin)
The Descent of Christ to Hell
Locus 14, The Mediatorial Office of Christ
The Necessity of the Satisfaction
Question 10, ‘Was it necessary for Christ to make satisfaction to divine justice for us? We affirm against the Socinians.’ also in Turretin on the Atonement of Christ trans. James R. Wilson (NY: Board of Publication of the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church, 1859)
The Truth of the Satisfaction
Question 11, ‘Did Christ truly and properly satisfy God’s justice in our place? We affirm against the Socinians’ in Turretin on the Atonement of Christ, trans. James R. Wilson
The Perfection of the Satisfaction
Question 12, ‘Was the satisfaction of Christ so perfect as to leave no room after it either for human satisfactions in this life or for purgatory after this life? We affirm against the Romanists’ in Turretin on the Atonement of Christ, trans. James R. Wilson
The Matter of the Satisfaction
Question 13, ‘Is the satisfaction of Christ to be restricted to the sufferings and punishments which he endured for us? Or is it to be extended also to the active obedience by which he perfectly fulfilled the law in his whole life? The former we deny and the latter we affirm.’ in Turretin on the Atonement of Christ, trans. James R. Wilson
The Object of the Satisfaction
Question 14, ‘Did Christ die for each and every man universally or only for the elect? The former we deny; the latter we affirm.’ in Turretin on the Atonement of Christ, trans. James R. Wilson
The Intercession of Christ
Question 15, ‘The Intercession of Christ: Why and how does Christ intercede for us?’
Locus 15, Calling & Faith
The Calling of the Reprobate
Question 2, ‘Are the reprobate, who partake of external calling, called with the design and intention on God’s part that they should become partakers of salvation? And, this being denied, does it follow that God does not deal seriously with them, but hypocritically and rarely; or that he can be accused of any injustice? We deny.’, sections 1-5, 14-16 & 21
The Subject of Faith
Question 14, ‘Do infants have faith? We distinguish.’
Question 15, ‘Does temporary faith differ only in degree and duration or also in kind from justifying faith? The former we deny; the latter we affirm against the Remonstrants’, sections 11-15
Locus 16, Justification
Question 1, ‘Is the word ‘justification’ always used in a forensic sense in this argument, or also in a moral and physical? The former we affirm, the latter we deny, against the Romanists.’ Also here.
Question 2, ‘Is the impulsive and meritorious cause (on account of which man is justified in the judgment of God) inherent righteousness infused into us or good works? We deny against the Romanists.’, section 7-8
Question 10, ‘The unity, perfection and certainty of justification’, section 8
Locus 17, Sanctification & Good Works
The Truth of Good Works
Question 4, ‘What is required that a work may be truly good? Are the works of the righteous such? We affirm.’
vol. 3
Locus 18, The Church
The Splendor of the Church
Question 9, ‘Ought the church to enjoy perpetual splendor and eminence; or can it be at times so obscured and lessened that no assembly of it appears publicly on earth? The former we deny; the latter we affirm against the Romanists’, section 7
Question 10, ‘Where was our Church before Luther and Zwingli, and how was it preserved?’, section 4-5, 8-9, 13-14, 17-18, 19
The Marks of the Church
Question 14, ‘Can the church of Rome of today be called a true church of Christ? We deny against the Romanists.’ excerpts
Question 15, ‘Are the evangelical and Reformed churches true churches of Christ? We affirm.’
The Call of the First Reformers
Question 25, ‘Was the Call of the First Reformers Legitimate? We Affirm Against the Romanists.’
The Salaries of Ministers & Ecclesiastical Goods
Question 28, ‘Is any Salary due Ministers of the Church? We Affirm Against the Anabaptists’
Locus 19, The Sacraments
The Word ‘Sacrament’ & its Definition
Question 1, ‘What is a sacrament as to the name and as to the thing?’
The Necessity of the Sacraments
Infant Baptism
Question 20, ‘Should the infants of covenanted believers be baptized? We affirm against the Anabaptists.’, sections 4, 9, 11, 18, 21, 26
The Corporeal Presence of Christ in the Supper & the Oral Manducation of it
Locus 20, The Last Things
Hell & Eternal Death
Question 7, ‘Is there a hell? And what are its punishments–whether only of loss or also of sense? We affirm the latter.’
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7th Disputation, ‘Whether it can be Proven the Pope of Rome is the Antichrist’ ed. Rand Winburn, trans. Kenneth Bubb (Icon Busters, 2004) 75 pp.
Watson, Thomas – A Body of Practical Divinity Buy being lectures on the Westminster Shorter Catechism
Watson (c. 1620 – 1686) was an English, nonconformist, puritan and presbyterian minister and author.
Various Puritans – Puritan Sermons: The Morning Exercises at Cripplegate, vols. 5, 6 Buy (1659-1689)
This 6 volume set of puritan sermons was given over a 30 year period in the late 1600’s on weekday mornings by puritan ministers near London. Vol. 5, in 28 sermons, briefly compasses the whole of the Christian Faith, though it is not online. Vol. 6 is another set of sermons against the many tenets of Romanism, which is of a similar systematic nature. Here is a table of contents to all of the volumes. The set is well worth your $180, being less than the weekly food budget of many people.
Nicholson, William
Nicholson (1591–1672) was a Calvinistic, English bishop. He was invited to the Westminster Assembly, but chose not to attend, as many of the Episcopalian clergymen.
…an Exposition of the Apostles’ Creed, Delivered in Several Sermons (London, 1661)
Charnock, Stephen
Works:
vol. 1 – Providence, Existence & Attributes of God
vol. 2 – Existence & Attributes of God
vol. 3 – Regeneration, Reconciliation, Christ’s Blood
vol. 4 – Knowledge of God, Unbelief, Lord’s Supper
vol. 5 – Discourses
Charnock (1628-1680) was an English, Presbyterian minister. He intended to compile a full systematic theology via his discourses, but died after the existence and attributes of God.
Leighton, Robert – Works, vol. 4
Leighton (1611-1684) was a reformed, evangelical and pious Scottish bishop. This volume includes his Theological Lectures, a short catechism and his expositions of the Apostle’s Creed, the Lord’s Prayer and the 10 Commandments.
Steele, Richard – A Scheme & Abstract of the Christian Religion, Comprised in Fifty-Two Heads, with the Texts of Scripture on which They are Grounded: & Some Short Indications how they were More Largely Handled (London: 1684) 22 pp. This is an annotated outline: likely his outlines for a year’s worth of sermons he preached.
Steele (1629-1692) was an ejected presbyterian puritan.
Anonymous – Catechism Made Practical: the Christian Instructed: I. in the Principles of Christian Religion, Positively, in the Shorter [English] Catechism, II. in what he is to Refuse & what to Hold Fast in the greatest points of controversy, III. in the practice of Several Duties, viz., (1) the practical improvement of the Holy Trinity, (2) baptism, (3) prayer, and (4) preparation for the Lord’s Supper ToC (1688)
Flavel, John – An Exposition of the Assembly’s Catechism (1688)
Flavel (c.1627–1691) was an English, puritan, presbyterian minister and author.
Bates, William
Works, vol. 1 of 4 Buy
Bates (1625–1699) was an English Presbyterian minister.
Including: A Treatise on the Existence of God, The Immortality of the Soul, The Divinity of the Christian Religion, and The Harmony of Divine Attributes in in the contrivance and accomplishment of man’s redemption by the Lord Jesus Christ.
Including: The Everlasting Rest of the Saints in Heaven; The Four Last Things: Death, Judgment, Heaven and Hell.
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1700’s (28)
à Brakel, Wilhelmus – The Christian’s Reasonable Service, vols. 1 (God, Man, Christ), 2 (Church, Salvation, Ordo Salutis, Sacraments), 3 (Salvation, 10 Commandments, Lord’s Prayer), 4 (Salvation, Virtues, Satan, Perseverance, Last Things, Covenant of Grace) ed. Joel Beeke, trans. Bartel Elshout Buy (1700; RHB, 1992/1999) The first volume has a brief ToC for all four volumes at the beginning. Each volume has a detailed ToC near the beginning. Indices are at the end of vol. 4.
a Brakel (1635-1711) was a contemporary of Voet and Witsius and was a major representative of the Dutch Further Reformation.
Howe, John
Christian Theology: Selected & Systematically Arranged ed. Samuel Dunn (London, 1836) 522 pp. ToC
Howe (1630-1705) was an English, dissenting, presbyterian minister and chaplain at one time to Oliver Cromwell. He had a platonic tinge in his writings from being under the influence of Ralph Cudworth and Henry More at Cambrdige.
This work is an anthology of Howe’s writings put together as a systematic theology by Dunn.
“As a minister, I have derived more benefit from the works of Howe, than from those of all other divines put together. There is an astounding magnificence in his conceptions.” – Rev. Robert Hall
Works (London: William Tegg, 1848)
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A Brief Memoir
Extended ToC
The Living Temple 1
Self-Dedication 345
Yield Yourselves to God 379
Enmity & Reconciliation Between God & Man 406
Man’s Creation in a Holy but Mutable State 462
On Delighting in God 474
Extended ToC
The Blessedness of the Righteous 1
The Vanity of Man as Mortal 261
The Redeemer’s Tears Wept Over Lost Souls 316
Thoughtfulness for the Morrow 390
. On the Immoderate Desire of Knowing Things to Come 428
Of Charity in Reference to Other Men’s Sins 451
On the Divine Prescience 474
Inquiry Concerning the Possibility of a Trinity 527
Letters to Dr. Wallis on the Trinity 560
Sixteen Summary Propositions on the Trinity 574
Letter Relating to the Calm Inquiry 577
View of the Late Considerations about the Trinity 596
Advertisement 627
Extended ToC
The Redeemer’s Dominion Over the Invisible World 1
Patience in Expectation of Future Blessedness 69
The Carnality of Religious Contention 110
Union among Protestants 156
Deliverance from the Power of Darkness 189
On Prayer from the Name of God 207
Peace Considered as God’s Blessing 240
The Duty of Civil Magistrates 262
On the Inquiry, Whether or No We Truly Love God 281
Funeral Sermons 290
Funeral Sermons for Ministers 388
Letters & Papers on Nonconformity 507
Letters 577
Prefaces & Dedications 593
Fragments 605
Indices to all 3 vols. 625
Willard, Samuel – A Complete Body of Divinity in 250 Expository Lectures on the [Westminster] Assembly’s Shorter Catechism (Boston, 1726) 1,000 pp. Evans
Willard (1640-1707) was a New England puritan minister and the vice-president of Harvard, and acting president, at the end of his life.
Witsius, Herman
The Economy of the Covenants Between God & Man: Comprehending a Complete Body of Divinity, vols. 1, 2, 3 Buy (NY: George Forman, 1798) ToC 1, 2, 3 Index
Witsius (1636-1708) was a reformed Dutch theologian. He wrote this body of divinity through the lens and outline of the covenants of God. He took a mediating position between that of Voetius and Cocceius. His exposition of the Lord’s Prayer and Apostles’ Creed below also cover a large gamut of theology.
Sacred Dissertations on the Lord’s Prayer Buy (Edinburgh: Thomas Clark, 1839) 410 pp. ToC no Index
Sacred Dissertations on the Apostle’s Creed, vols. 1, 2 trans. Donald Fraser Buy (Edinburgh: A. Fullarton, 1823) ToC 1, 2 Indices
Beveridge, William – Thesaurus of Theology: A Complete System of Divinity Summed up in Brief Notes upon Select Places of the Old & New Testament, vol. 1, 2, 3 (London: Rich Smith, 1710) Index Scripture Index
Beveridge (1637 1708) was a reformed, bishop in the Church of England. This is not the same Beveridge that translated Calvin’s Institutes.
Beveridge gives theological outlines on select passages of Scripture, in canonical order, like a commentary on the Bible. Use the indices to find a place where he may deal with your topic of interest.
Gastrell, Francis – The Christian Institutes: being a Plain & Impartial Account of the Whole Faith & Duty of a Christian… Delivered in the Words of Scripture 6th ed. (London: W. Innys, 1734) 329 pp. ToC Index
Gastrell (1662-1725) was an Anglican bishop. He criticised the Trinitarian theories of William Sherlock, who, following Cartesianism, leaned to a tritheistic paradigm, as innovative. Wikipedia says, “He was a noted controversialist, but considered to hold moderate views.”
Halyburton, Thomas – The Works of Thomas Halyburton… ed. Robert Burns complete in 1 vol. Buy (London, 1835) 817 pp. ToC no Index
Halyburton (1674-1712) was a Church of Scotland minister and divine, known for his spiritual autobiography, his orthodox writings against deism and his sermons. While this is not a systematic theology, the first three volumes (of four) of the modern reprint cover much of the substance of Christian theology.
Edwards, John
Theologia Reformata: or the Body & Substance of the Christian Religion, Comprised in Distinct Discourses or Treatises upon the Apostles’ Creed, the Lord’s Prayer & the Ten Commandments; in Two Volumes. The Whole Adjusted to the Sacred Scriptures & the Judgement of the Protestant Reformed Churches, vols. 1, 2 (London: John Lawrence, 1713) no ToC Indices
John Edwards (1637–1716) was a Calvinistic, episcopalian, Anglican, the son of Thomas Edwards (a presbyterian), who wrote the famed book ‘Gangraena’ against the sects in the 1640’s.
The Doctrine of Faith & Justification Set in a True Light, in Three Parts … Being the Second Part of the Theological Treatises which are to Compose a Large Body of Christian Divinity (London: Jonathan Robinson, 1708) 492 pp. ToC no Index
Vanderkemp, John – The Christian Entirely the Property of Christ in Life & Death; Exhibited in Fifty-Three Sermons on the Heidelberg Catechism, vols. 1, 2 (New-Brunswick, NJ: Abraham Blauvelt, 1718) no ToC Index
Vanderkemp (1664-1718) was a reformed Ducth minister.
Doutrin, John – A Short Scheme of Divine Truths: wherein is Given a General Idea of Divinity Buy Ref (London: J. Darby, 1705) 303 pp.
Doutrin (1662-1722) was an evangelical Dutch preacher and professor at Dort. Doutrin was a prominent exponent of the Cocceian movement, and Friedrich Adolph Lampe was one of his disciples.
Pictet, Benedict – Christian Theology trans. Frederick Reyroux (London: R.B. Seeley, 1834) 512 pp. ToC
Pictet (1655-1724) was the Swiss professor of divinity in Geneva after Turretin. He was the last theology professor to hold the orthodox faith there as the Enlightenment was arising.
Blackwell, Sr., Thomas – Forma Sacra, or a Sacred Platform of Natural & Revealed Religion (Boston: William M’Alpine, 1774) 339 pp. no ToC no Index
Blackwell, Sr. (c.1660-1728) was a professor of theology at Aberdeen, Scotland. Blackwell was an early enlightenment thinker (not recommended).
Wishart, William – Theologia: or Discourses of God, Delivered in 120 Sermons, vol. 1, 2 (Paisley: John Neilson, 1787) ToC 1, 2 Index
Wishart (1660-1729) was an influential Church of Scotland minister, professor and a principal of Edinburgh University. His work is similar to Charnock’s work.
Hellenbroek, Abraham – A Specimen of Divine Truths for the Instruction of Youth, who Prepare Themselves for a Confession of their Faith IA (NY: George Forman, 1809) 72 pp. This is in the form of a catechism.
Hellenbroek (1658-1731) was a Dutch reformed minister.
Boston, Thomas
A Brief Explication of the First Part of the Assembly’s Shorter Catechism 133 pp. in The Whole Works… ed. Samuel M’Millan (Aberdeen: George & Robert King, 1850), vol. 7, pp. 9-142 The commentary goes up through Question #38.
Boston (†1732) was a Chuch of Scotland minister and divine.
On Boston’s theology, see also A.T.B. McGowan, The Federal Theology of Thomas Boston (Paternoster Press, 1997) 245 pp. ToC which is laid out in systematic form.
An Illustration of the Doctrines of the Christian Religion… upon the Plan of the Assembly’s Shorter Catechism, Comprehending a Complete Body of Divinity, vol. 1, 2 ToC 1, 2 in The Whole Works… ed. Samuel M’Millan (Aberdeen: George & Robert King, 1850), vols. 1-2
Human Nature in its Fourfold State… Buy ToC in The Whole Works… ed. Samuel M’Millan (Aberdeen: George & Robert King, 1850), vol. 8, pp. 9-377
The fourfold state of man is: (1) Upright in Eden, (2) Fallen in Adam, (3) Regenerate in Christ, (4) Glorified in Heaven. Boston hits many of the topics of systematic theology in this volume.
A View of the Covenant of Grace from the Sacred Records… ToC in The Whole Works… ed. Samuel M’Millan (Aberdeen: George & Robert King, 1850), vol. 8, pp. 379-604
Ridgley, Thomas – A Body of Divinity, vols. 1 (Q. 1-60 Church Visible & Invisible), 2 (Q. 61-End) (NY: Robert Carter, 1855) ToC 1, 2
Ridgley (c. 1667-1734) was an English, dissenting, congregationalist, who took the side of subscription to creeds in the Salters’ Hall debates. He was also a co-pastor with Thomas Gouge. He argued agianst Arian and Arminian laxity.
Wikipedia: “Yet his scheme of the Trinity, denuded of the generation of the Son and the procession of the Spirit, is essentially Sabellian, and in easing the difficulties of Calvinism he follows the Socinians in limiting the penalties of Adam’s sin to death and temporal discomfort.”
This work is Ridgley’s collection of sermons preached through the Westminster Larger Catechism, which is the major older work on the Larger Catechism. The editor, John M. Wilson, sometimes gives lengthy footnotes of a moderate nature.
Crawford, William – A Short Practical Catechism, wherein there is an Instruction in the Principal Articles of the Christian Religion (Edinburgh: R. Fleming, 1734) 184 pp. no ToC
Crawford (1676-1742) was a minister in England. Crawford’s other works are listed here.
Wyttenbach, Daniel – Theological Theses, containing the Chief Heads of the Christian Doctrine, Deduced from Axioms, Composed & Publicly Defended… in the Academy at Bern (1747; NY: Samuel Brown, 1766) 113 pp. no ToC
Wyttenbach (1706-1779) was an enlightenment professor of theology at Bern and Marburg, from a tradition that once was reformed. Not recommended.
Doddridge, Philip – A Course of Lectures on Pneumatology, Ethic and Divinity, part 1, part 2, Lectures on Preaching and the Ministerial Office ToC being 168 lectures
Doddridge (1702-1751) was an English Nonconformist, congregationalist, minister, educator, and hymn-writer. He was a friend of Isaac Watts and Doddridge’sThe Rise & Progress of Religion in the Soul (dedicated to Watts) was very influential, though devoid of an emphasis on the atonement.
Erskine, Ralph – Gospel Sonnets ToC in The Practical Works… (Glasgow: William Smith, 1778), vol. 10
Erskine (d. 1752) was a father of the Scottish secession Church.
Erskine’s Gospel Sonnets is virtually a systematic theology in poetry. Though it does not hit every topic, it does hit most. This volume is volume 7 in the 7 volume series of Erskine’s Works that is more commonly available for sale.
The Free Presbyterians recently reprinted the first 6 volumes, but not the seventh. There is much left out of this last volume in the ‘Gospel Sonnets’ paperback reprint by SGCB. For another systematic work in verse, see that of Benjamin Keach in Reformed Baptist Systematic Theologies.
Edwards, Jonathan
The Works of Jonathan Edwards… vol. 1, 2 ed. Edward Hickman Buy (London: Ball, Arnold & Co., 1840) ToC 1, 2
Edwards (1703-1758) was a New England, congregationalist minister, having influence in the First Great Awakening. He is often regarded as one of the last puritans and America’s greatest theologian.
While Edwards never wrote a systematic theology, he did write treatises on: Original Sin, Eschatology (A History of the Work of Redemption), Predestination and Free-will, Ethics, Apologetics, and the Eternal state, and was very influential on later theologians that did write systematic theologies. His sermons cover about every other topic not in the previous list.
The 2 volume edition (often reprinted) is handy, but if you are not satisfied (and are rich), try his 26 volume complete works from Yale Buy. Or, if you are poor, you can still access 73 volumes of his online works at The Jonathan Edwards Center at Yale University.
Miscellanies, parts 1, 2, 3, 4 being WJE Online, vols. 13, 18, 20, 23 Arranged topically
De Ronde, Lambertus – A System Containing the Principles of the Christian Religion, Suitable to the Heidelberg Catechism… (NY: H. Gaine, 1763) 184 pp. ToC
de Ronde (1720-1795) was a minister of the Protestant Dutch Church in New York.
Warden, John – A System of Revealed Religion Digested under Proper Heads & Composed in the Express Words of Scripture, Containing All that the Sacred Records Reveal with Respect to Doctrine & Duty 2 vols. in 1 (London: Edward & Charles Dilly, 1764) 736 pp. ToC
Warden (d. 1764), according to PRDL, was reformed.
Riccaltoun, Robert – Essays on Human Nature & Several Doctrines of Revelation 455 pp. ToC in The Works… in Three Volumes… (Edinburgh: A. Murray, 1771), vol. 1
Riccaltoun (1691-1769) was one of the leading Marrow Men. Not a whole systematic theology, but a substantial coverage.
de Moor, Bernard – Continuous Commentary on John Marck’s Didactic-Elenctic Compendium of Christian Theology Buy (1761- 1772)
This work is currently being translated from the Latin. As portions are translated, excerpts are being put up at the blog. Here is a review of volume 1 by Reformation21. Note that the work is 34 chapters in 7 volumes in the Latin, yet each chapter so far (2021) has filled one volume in the English.
De Moor “maintained the fundamental line of confessional orthodoxy without drawing heavily on any of the newer philosophies… [and he] maintained a fairly centrist Reformed position… Vitringa and De Moor served as codifiers and bibliographers of the earlier tradition, the former from a federalist, the latter from a nonfederalist perspective. Indeed, De Moor’s efforts did for later Reformed orthodoxy what the massive system of Quenstedt did for Lutheranism in the concluding years of the seventeenth century: the work was so exhaustive and so complete in detail and bibliography that it virtually ended the development of Reformed doctrine in the form of orthodox system.” – Richard Muller
Comrie, Alexander – The ABC’s of Faith Buy (Zoar, 1978) 182 pp.
Comrie (1706-1774) was Dutch reformed.
Brown of Haddington, John
A Compendious View of Natural & Revealed Religion Buy (Glasgow: John Bryce, 1782) 650 pp. ToC
Brown, a Scottish secession minister and professor, is noted for his Biblicism: his citing of many scripture verses to establish each of his points.
An Essay Towards an Easy, Plain, Practical & Extensive Explication of the Assembly’s Shorter Catechism 8th ed., ed. Ebenezer Brown Buy (Edinburgh: J. Ogle, 1812)
Venema, Herman – Institutes of Theology, part 1 trans. Alexander Brown Buy (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1850) 532 pp.
Venema (1697-1787) was a professor at Franeker. Venema “maintained the fundamental line of confessional orthodoxy without drawing heavily on any of the newer philosophies… and maintained a fairly centrist Reformed position. Venema… evidence[s] the inroads of a rationalistic model…” – Richard Muller
Hopkins, Samuel – The System of Doctrines Contained in Divine Revelation Explained & Defended… vol. 1, 2 (1793; Boston: Lincoln & Edmands, 1811) ToC 1, 2 Not recommended. This is here for reference.
Hopkins followed Jonathan Edwards and advocated for a modified Calvinism, known as the New Divinity, which was erroneous on numerous points. For a list of Hopkinsianism’s distinctive tenets, see Wiki.
Witherspoon, John
Lectures on Divinity 155 pp. ToC 17 lectures in The Works… Buy (Edinburgh: Ogle & Aikman, 1805), vol. 8, pp. 9-164
Witherspoon (d. 1794)
Lectures on Moral Philosophy ToC 75 pp. 10 Lectures in Works, vol. 7 Buy (Edinburgh: Ogle & Aikman, 1805)
Works, vol. 1 Buy (Edinburgh: Ogle, 1815) 325 pp. ToC
Containing ‘an Essay on Justification’ and a ‘Treatise on Regeneration’.
Sermons on Interesting Subjects… ToC being the whole of Works Buy (Edinburgh: Ogle & Aikman, 1804), vol. 4
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1800’s (32)
Mather, Moses – A Systematic View of Divinity, or the Ruin & Recovery of Man (Stamford, CT: Nathan Weed, 1813) 245 pp. no ToC
Mather (1719-1806) was a New England, puritan minister of the older variety.
Smith, Samuel Stanhope – A Comprehensive View of the Leading & Most Important Principles of Natural & Revealed Religion 2nd ed. with additions (New-Brunswick: Deare & Myer, 1816) 550 pp. ToC
Smith (1751-1819) was an evangelical presbyterian and president of Princeton College.
Dwight, Timothy – Theology: Explained and Defended in a Series of Sermons… vols. 1, 2, 3, 4 4th ed. Buy (New-Haven: S. Converse, 1825) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4 Analysis
Dwight (d. 1817) followed in the steps of the New England school after Jonathan Edwards (see Hopkins above). He denied the imputation of Adam’s guilt to his posterity, but other than that, he was pretty good. Joel Beeke has a very good introduction to his life and theology in the Solid Ground Christian Books reprint of this text.
Alexander, Archibald A.
A Brief Compend of Bible Truth (Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1846) 210 pp. ToC
“The volume now given to the public comprises a brief system of theology, and may be found useful to such as may not have the opportunity of studying larger works. As it is not intended for the learned, but for plain, common readers, technical phrases and abstruse disquisitions have been avoided; yet, the author has attempted to establish every doctrine advanced, by solid arguments, derived from reason and Scripture.” – Preface
Lecture Notes of Archibald Alexander on Systematic Theology (1818) 284 pp. being a hand-written manuscript by Charles Hodge
Alexander was the first professor of Old Princeton Seminary. His lectures on Theology are unavailable in any other form. A treasure.
Table of Contents
1. Philosophy of the Mind 1
2. Theology 19
3. Revealed Theology 37
4. Prophecy 44
5. Inspiration 53
6. Attributes 61
7. Scientia Media (Middle Knowledge) 72
8. Trinity 87
9. Decrees 109
10. Predestination 117
11. Election 121
12. Reprobation 131
13. Creation 135
14. Providence 147
15. The Covenant of Nature, or of Works 193
16. On the Will 221-263
.
Hill, George
Lectures in Divinity ed. Alexander Hill (NY: Robert Carter, 1851) 805 pp. ToC
Hill (d. 1819) was a leader of the moderate party (contra the evangelicals) in Scotland. His textbook was widely influential, and according to Thomas Chalmers, was orthodox, though without the warm fervor that should attend evangelical doctrine. Chalmers used the work with his students of divinity as a platform for his own lectures. See Chalmers’ assessment of Hill’s divinity here.
Theological Institutes… (Edinburgh: Bell & Bradfute, 1803) 455 pp. ToC
This is comprised of 3 parts: (1) Heads of Lectures in Divinity, (2) View of the Constitution of the Church of Scotland, (3) The Pastoral Office: Public & Private Duties.
Smith, Marcus – An Epitome of Systematic Theology (Rennselaerville: Jonathan Leavitt, 1829) 310 pp. no ToC Index
Smith was an orthodox presbyterian in New York during the early 1800’s. His theology is sound and good.
Dick, John – Lectures on Theology, vols. 1, 2, 3, 4 Buy (Edinburgh: W. Oliphant, 1834) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4
Dick was an orthodox Scottish professor of theology in the Secession tradition. Excellent systematic.
Belfrage, Henry – A Practical Exposition of the Assembly’s Shorter Catechism: Exhibiting a System of Theology in a Popular Form, & Particularly Adapted for Family Instruction, vols. 1 (Q. 1-52), 2 (Q. 53-End) (Edinburgh: William Oliphant, 1834) no ToC Index
Belfrage was an orthodox Scottish secessionist minister.
Hodge, Charles
The Way of Life Buy (London: Religious Tract Society, 1842) 328 pp. ToC
Popular treatments of the practical teachings of Christianity aimed to produce holiness.
Conference Papers (NY: Charles Scriber’s Sons, 1879) 408 pp. ToC
Familiar Lord’s Day afternoon addresses to Princeton students, arranged in topical fashion.
Systematic Theology, vol. 1 (Prolegomena, God, Decrees, Creation, Providence, Miracles, Angels), 2 (Anthropology, Soteriology), 3 (Ordo Salutis, Sacraments, Eschatology) Buy (1871; NY: 1877) ToC 1, 2, 3 Index Scripture Index
Hodge’s systematic is a classic and has rightly earned him a place as one of America’s preeminent theologians. Below are some helpful accessories to his systematic:
Hodge, Charles – Systematic Theology: a Series of Questions Upon the Lectures Delivered (Philadelphia: 1865) 135 pp. ToC
Hodge, A.A. – Questions on the Text of the Systematic Theology of Dr. Charles Hodge: Together with an Exhibition of Various Schemes Illustrating the Principles of Theological Construction (NY: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1885) 180 pp. ToC
Dabney, Robert L. – ‘A Review of Hodge’s Systematic Theology’ in Robert Dabney, Discussions, vol. 1 ed. C.R. Vaughan (Richmond, VA: Presbyterian Committee of Publication, 1890), pp. 229-81
The Church & its Polity (London: Thomas Nelson, 1879) 545 pp. ToC
This volume completes Hodge’s systematic theology. While the volume is very helpful for its detailed discussions and references of the finer points of Church government, yet do note that Hodge lived in a time in which the finer points of Church government were changing from the older classical model (from the Church of Scotland), which changes are not usually recommended.
Chalmers, Thomas
Institutes of Theology, vols. 1, 2 (Thomas Constable, 1849) ToC 1, 2 no Index
Chalmers (d. 1847) was a moderate turned evangelical and was one of the great leaders of the Free Church of Scotland.
Notes on Hill’s Lectures in Divinity 265 pp. ToC in Institutes of Theology with Prelections on Hill’s Lectures in Divinity... vol. 2 (Edinburgh: Thomas Constable, 1856)
Chalmers initially, before he wrote his own Institutes of Theology, used George Hill’s (see above) Lectures in Divinity as a platform for lecturing to his students. The first three pages give Chalmers’ assessment of Hill.
Morris, Edward Dafydd – Outlines of Lectures on the Christian Doctrine: Printed for the use of Students in Lane Theological Seminary (1849) 70 pp.
Morris appears to be moderate in his views, as he is in his book on the Theology of the Westminster Symbols.
Morris (1825–1915) was a fixture at Lane Theological Seminary in Ohio for 30 years, a professor of Church history and systematic theology, a moderator for the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America (PC-USA), a writer and pastor, and an important player in the effort to reunite the Old and New Schools of the PC-USA.
Morris is remembered for his Theology of the Westminster Symbols. See more at Logos.com. B.B. Warfield gave Morris’s A Calm Review of the Inaugural Address of Prof. Charles A. Briggs (on Biblical Authority, Briggs being a liberal; the review is critical of Briggs) a favorable review.
See also Wikipedia on Lane Theological Seminary.
Bogue, David – Theological Lectures, vol. 1, 2 ed. Joseph Samuel Frey (NY: Lewis Colby, 1849) ToC Index
Bogue was a Scot who became a congregationalist in England and wrote the 3 volume, History of the Dissenters.
Woods, Leonard – Works, vol. 1 (Lectures: Prolegomena-Decrees), 2 (Providence-Regeneration), 3 (Regeneration-Personal Religion), 4 (Letters to Unitarians, Perfectionism), 5 (Letters, Tracts, Sermons) (Boston: John P. Jewett, 1851) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Index
Woods (1774–1854) was a Harvard grad, a congregationalist minister and the first professor of Andover Theological Seminary in Massachusetts, USA. He was an orthodox Calvinist known for his argumentation against Unitarianism.
Wardlaw, Ralph – Systematic Theology, vol. 1 (Proleg.-Evidences-God), 2 (Trinity-Atonement-Faith), 3 (Scripture-Regeneration-Sanctification-Final Things) ed. James R. Campbell (Edinburgh: Adam & Charles Black, 1856-1857) ToC 1, 2, 3 no Index
Wardlaw (1779-1853)
Anderson, Abraham – Lectures on Theology Buy (Philadelphia: Wm. S. Young, 1857) 768 pp. ToC
Anderson (1821-1855) was an American pastor in the Associate Presbyterian Church (from the Secession in Scotland) and a professor at their seminary in Cannonsburg, PA. The outline of this systematic is based on the latin, Dutch refomed systematic of Johannes Marck (1656-1731).
Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church of Nova Scotia – A Course of Study in Systematic & Pastoral Theology & Ecclesiastical History… (Charlottetown: Burris Brothers, 1857) 105 pp. no ToC
This contains only outlines of 130+ lectures on systematic theology. The outlines themselves are very good, and the books for further reference listed at the end of each outline are even better.
Hodge, A.A.
Outlines of Theology
Outlines of Theology (NY: Robert Carter, 1860) 525 pp. ToC 40 chs.
A.A. Hodge (1823–1886) was the son of Charles Hodge and followed his father as a professor of systematic theology at Princeton.
Outlines of Theology: Rewritten & Enlarged (NY: A.C. Armstrong, 1905) 680 pp. ToC 43 chs.
Two chapters were dropped, and five new ones added in this edition. It contains 50% more matter than the former.
Popular Lectures on Theological Themes Buy (Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1887) 475 pp. ToC
Commentary on the Westminster Confession… Buy (Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1901) 560 pp. ToC Index
Cunningham, William
Historical Theology, vol. 1, 2 Buy (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1863) ToC 1, 2
Cunningham (d. 1861) was one of the bright lights of the Free Church of Scotland. His historical theology covers most off the gamut of systematic theology, along with his work below on the theology of the Reformation.
The Reformers & the Theology of the Reformation Buy (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1862) 608 pp. ToC with a four page preface by James Buchanan & James Bannerman
Theological Lectures: on Subjects Connected with Natural Theology, Evidences of Christianity, the Canon & Inspiration of Scripture Buy (NY: Robert Carter, 1878) 625 pp. ToC
These lectures cover the content of chapter 1 of the Westminster Confession on Scripture.
Discussions on Church Principles: Popish, Erastian & Presbyterian Buy (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1863) 565 pp. ToC with a four page preface by James Buchanan & James Bannerman
Heppe, Heinrich – Reformed Dogmatics ed. Ernst Bizer, trans. G.T. Thomson Pre Buy (1861; repr. Wipf & Stock, 2007) 729 pp. ToC Index
Heppe (1820–1879) collected a compendium of quotes from early reformed sources and organized them in the fashion of a systematic theology (many of which are inaccessible otherwise). Invaluable. Heppe gives a special emphasis to the German Reformed tradition. Here is a helpful blog review of the book with the table of contents to the first four chapters.
Breckinridge, Robert
The Knowledge of God Objectively Considered… (NY: Robert Carter, 1869) 550 pp. ToC
The Knowledge of God Subjectively Considered (NY: Robert Carter, 1869) 715 pp. ToC
Macaulay, George – Puritan Theology: or Law, Grace & Truth, being Discourses Polemical, Practical & Historical, vol. 1, 2 (Glasgow: Francis Orr & Sons, 1872) ToC 1, 2 no Index
Macaulay was a minister in the Free Church of Scotland.
van Oosterzee, J.J. – Christian Dogmatics, vols. 1, 2 (NY: Scribner, 1874) ToC 1, 2 Index
Oosterzee (1817–1882) was an orthodox Dutch professor of systematic theology at the University of Utrecht.
Thornwell, James, H. – Collected Writings, vols. 1 (Theological), 2 (Theological & Ethical), 3 (Theological & Controversial), 4 (Ecclesiastical) Buy (Richmond, VA: Presbyterian Committee of Publication, 1871) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4 Index 1, 2, 3, 4
Dabney, Robert
Systematic Theology
Syllabus & Notes of the Course of Systematic & Polemical Theology taught in Union Theological Seminary, Virginia 2nd ed. Buy (St. Louis: Presbyterian Publishing Co. of St. Louis, 1878) 915 pp. ToC Index
Discussions Buy (Richmond, VA: Presbyterian Committee of Publication, 1890) This is the unedited version. The modern Banner of Truth edition is heavily edited.
vol. 1, Theological & Evangelical ToC Index
vol. 2, Evangelical & Theological ToC Index
vol. 3, Philosophical ToC Index
vol. 4, Secular ToC no Index
vol. 5, Miscellaneous Writings ToC no Index
Plumer, William
Short Sermons to Little Children Buy (Philadelphia: American Sunday-School Union, 1848) 123 pp. ToC
Plumer (d. 1880). A systematic theology for children.
Short Sermons for the People Buy (London: R.D. Dicksinson, 1872) 266 pp. ToC
Something of a plain and simple systematic theology for regular people.
The Rock of Our Salvation: A Treatise Respecting the Natures, Person, Offices, Work, Sufferings & Glory of Jesus Christ Buy (NY: American Tract Society, 1867) 519 pp. ToC
The Grace of Christ, or Sinners Saved by Unmerited Kindness Buy (Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1853) 450 pp. ToC
A Treatise on Providence Buy (Philadelphia: J.B. Lippincott, 1866) 235 pp. ToC
Earnest Hours Buy (Richmond, VA: Presbyterian Committee of Publication, 1869) ToC
‘Earnest hours’ was the term for the hours of Saturday evening before the Lord’s Day, as we ought to prepare for the Lord’s Day, and hence be earnest in these hours. The book contains many systematic topics.
The Bible True & Infidelity Wicked (American Tract Society, 1840) 84 pp. ToC
The Law of God as Contained in the Ten Commandments Explained & Enforced Buy (Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1864) 635 pp. ToC
Smith, Henry Boynton – System of Christian Theology (NY: A.C. Armstrong, 1884) 650 pp. ToC
Smith was a professor of systematic theology at Union Theological seminary. He has some German liberal influences, which are not recommended.
Shedd, William, G.T. – Dogmatic Theology, vols. 1 (Theological Introduction, Bibliology, God), 2 (Anthropology, Christology, Soteriology, Eschatology), 3 (Supplement to: Theological Introduction, Bibliology, God, Anthropology, Christology, Soteriology, Eschatology) Buy (NY: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1888) ToC 1, 2, 3 no Index
Girardeau, John L.
Covenant of Works Chart (1876)
Covenant of Grace Chart (1876)
The Will in its Theological Relations (1891) 485 pp.
Calvinism & Evangelical Arminianism Buy HTML (1890) 584 pp.
This book covers the gamut of soteriology.
Discussions of Philosophical Questions (Richmond, VA: Presbyterian Committee of Publication, 1900) 532 pp. ToC
A modern title to this book would be “Conflict of Worldviews”. This work and the below work contain much of Girardeau’s writings on systematic issues. Many in his day desired him to write a systematic theology, but it did not happen.
Discussions of Theological Questions (Richmond, VA: Presbyterian Committee of Publication, 1905) 534 pp. ToC
Contains, amongst other things, Girardeau’s significant contribution on the doctrine of adoption and the Fatherhood of God over all creation.
‘The Federal Theology: its Import & its Regulative Influence’ in Memorial volume of the semi-centennial of the Theological seminary at Columbia, South Carolina (Columbia, SC: Presbyterian Publishing House, 1884), pp. 96-130
A discussion of the nature and importance of Federal Headship, Imputation and Covenant Theology.
The Will in its Theological Relations Buy (Columbia, SC: W.J. Duffie, 1891) 485 pp. ToC Index
This is Girardeau’s significant contribution to the topic of Predestination. In it, he (rightly) critiques Jonathan Edwards’ philosophical necessitarianism.
Instrumental Music in the Public Worship of the Church (Richmond, VA: Whittet & Shepperson, 1888) 215 pp. ToC no Index
Conscience & Civil Government: an Oration Delivered before the Society of Alumni of the College of Charleston on Commencement Day, March 27th, 1860 (Charleston: Evans & Cogswell, 1860) 20 pp. no ToC
See more works of Girardeau at Log College Press.
Schaff, Philip – Theological Propaedeutic: A General Introduction to the Study of Theology Exegetical, Historical, Systematic & Practical Buy (NY: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1893) 600 pp. ToC no Index
Schaff is most well-known for his volumes on the history of the Christian Church and also his Creeds of Christendom. He was a professor of Church History at Union Theological Seminary in New York in the late-1800. His denomination stemmed from the German Reformed tradition, though he was a particular proponent of the Mercersburg theology (not recommended). He also had some German/liberal influences.
Orr, James
The Christian View of God & the World as Centering in the Incarnation (NY: Anson, 1893) 575 pp. ToC
Orr was originally in the Free Church of Scotland, though he joined with the merger in 1900 into the United Free Church of Scotland. He became a professor with the latter, and, consistent with that trajectory, had some weak (erroneous) points in his theology, though the whole of it was mainly sound and conservative (or attempted to be).
Sidelights on Christian Doctrine Buy (NY: A.C. Armstrong, 1909) 190 pp. ToC
The Progess of Dogma, being the Elliot Lectures… Pre Buy (London: James Clark, 1901) 395 pp. ToC
This is Orr’s work on historical theology.
Ritschlianism: Expository & Critical Essays (London, 1903) 295 pp. ToC
God’s Image in Man & its Defacement in the Light of Modern Denials 4th ed. (NY: A.C. Armstrong, 1908) 340 pp. ToC
Four Essays on the Sabbath… which were awarded… by the Sabbath Alliance of Scotland (Edinburgh: James Gemmell, 1886) 585 pp. The only table of contents is on the title page. With a preface by Andrew Thomson
The Resurrection of Jesus in The Expositor’s Library (London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1912) 285 pp. ToC
The Virgin Birth of Christ: being Lectures Delivered… with Appendix Giving Opinions of Living Scholars (NY: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1907) 315 pp. ToC
Revelation & Inspiration (London: Duckworth, 1910) 230 pp. ToC
David Hume & his Influence on Philosophy & Theology (NY: Charles Scriber’s Sons, 1903) 255 pp. ToC
The Bible under Trial: in View of Present-Day Assaults on Holy Scripture (NY: A.C. Armstrong, 1907) 325 pp. ToC
‘Holy Scripture & Modern Negation’ (Toronto: L.S. Haynes Press, 1909) 31 pp.
The Faith of a Modern Christian (NY: Hodder & Stoughton, 1910) 240 pp. ToC
Denny, James – Studies in Theology… Buy (Hodder & Stoughton, 1894) 275 pp. ToC no Index
Denny was a professor in systematic theology and the N.T. from 1897-1915 at Glasgow College, Scotland. He defended orthodoxy from liberalism but was willing to concede that the Bible might contain minor errors.
Vos, Geerhardus – Reformed Dogmatics Buy (1896; Lexham Press, 2014/2020) This was first printed in a five volume edition; now there is a single volume edition (which is much cheaper).
Bavinck, Herman
Our Reasonable Faith Buy (Eerdmans, 1956) 576 pp. ToC The work has also been published with the title, The Wonderful Works of God.
This is a one volume popular digest of his four volume Reformed Dogmatics.
“I wish to give a simple explanation of the Christian faith in a book of modest scope, as confessed by the Reformed churches…” – Bavinck
Reformed Dogmatics, vol. 1 (Prolegomena), 2 (God, Creation), 3 (Sin, Salvation in Christ), 4 (Holy Spirit, Church, New Creation) Buy (Baker Academic, 2008) 3,024 pp. ToC 1, 2, 3, 4
Reformed Dogmatics: Abridged in One Volume abridged by John Bolt Buy (Baker Academic, 2011) 847 pp. ToC
The Philosophy of Revelation: the Stone Lectures for 1908-1909, Princeton Theological Seminary (Longmans, 1909) 360 pp. ToC
Reformed Ethics, vol. 1 (Created, Fallen & Converted Humanity), 2 (Duties of Christian Life), 3 ed. John Bolt Buy (Baker Academic, 2019) ToC 1, 2, 3
An Introduction to the Science of Missions trans. David H. Freeman (P&R, 1961) 350 pp. ToC
The Sacrifice of Praise: Meditations Before & After Receiving Access to the Table of the Lord 2nd ed. trans. John Dolfin (Kregel, 1922) 130 pp.
Macpherson, John
Christian Dogmatics Buy (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1898) 475 pp. ToC
Macpherson was a professor of Free Church of Scotland.
Macphereson, with respect to the incarnation of the Son of God taught a form of Kenoticism, which is a serious error, if not an outright heresy. See pp. 300-301.
The Westminster Confession of Faith, with Introduction & Notes Buy (1881) 200 pp.
The work was geared towards Bible classes.
Presbyterianism (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1882) 170 pp. ToC
The Doctine of the Church in Scottish Theology (1903) 240 pp. ToC
Kuyper, Abraham
Systematic
Encyclopedia of Sacred Theology: Its Principles (NY: Charles Scribner’s, 1898) 720 pp. ToC
Kuyper’s dogmatics are still in Dutch, but what little of his works are being translated in English, we will add here.
Pro Rege: Living Under Christ’s Kingship, vol. 1, 2, 3 Buy (Lexham Press, 2016) The online version is a straight computer translation from the Dutch.
Lectures on Calvinism: Six Stone-Lectures (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1898) 290 pp. ToC
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Soteriology
Particular Grace: A Defense of God’s Sovereignty in Salvation trans. Marvin Kamps Buy (Grandville: MI: Reformed Free Publishing Association, 2001)
The Work of the Holy Spirit (Funk & Wagnalls, 1900) 700 pp. ToC Intro by B.B. Warfield
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Ecclesiology
On the Church Buy (Lexham Press, 2016) 544 pp.
Rooted & Grounded: The Church as Organism & Institution Buy (Christian’s Library Press)
The Implications of Public Confession 3rd ed. trans. Zylstra (Zondervan, 1934) 88 pp. ToC
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Common Grace & Philosophy
Common Grace: God’s Gifts for a Fallen World, vol. 1, 2, 3 Buy (Lexham Press, 2015) 672 pp.
‘The Antithesis Between Symbolism & Revelation: a Lecture’ (1857) 22 pp.
‘Pantheism’s Destruction of Boundaries’ trans. de Vries (1893) 40 pp. First published in Methodist Review (NY) (July & Sept, 1893)
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Biblical
‘The Biblical Criticism of the Present Day’ in Bibliotheca Sacra (1904), article 1, pp. 409-42 & 666-88
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Political
Our Program: a Christian Political Manifesto Buy (Lexham Press, 2015) 432 pp.
‘Calvinism: the Origin & Safeguard of our Constitutional Liberties’ in Bibliotheca Sacra (Oct, 1895), article IV, pp. 646-74
The Problem of Poverty: a Translation of the Opening Address at the First Christian Social Congress in the Netherlands, Nov. 9, 1891 ed. James W. Skillen Buy (Baker & Center for Public Justice, 1991) 95 pp. ToC
The South-African Crisis 4th ed. trans. Fletcher (London: Stop the War Committee, 1900) 85 pp. no ToC
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Islam
On Islam Buy (Lexham Press, 2018)
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Anthology
Abraham Kuyper: A Centennial Reader ed. James Bratt Buy (Eerdmans, 1998) 512 pp. ToC
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1900’s (27)
Bosma, M.J. – Exposition of Reformed Doctrine: A Popular Explanation of the Most Essential Teachings of the Reformed Churches (B. Sevensma, 1907) 307 pp. ToC
Bosma was an American, Dutch reformed pastor in Grand Rapids.
Torrey, R.A. & C.A. Dixon – The Fundamentals: a Testimony to the Truth, vol. 1, 2, 3, 4 Buy (1909/1910; Baker, 1994)
This was the foundational work of fundamentalism as a counter-response to the growing liberalism of the day. These volumes were intended to be a systematic defense of Christianity against liberal errors. It includes 100 articles authored by leading scholars including B. B. Warfield, James Orr, G. Campbell Morgan, Charles Erdman, H. C. G. Moule and J.C. Ryle. This set is solid. It does not contain the numerous distinctive weaknesses that fundamentalism would later develop.
Clark, David – A Syllabus of Systematic Theology Buy (1920) 250 pp. ToC
David Clark was Gordon Clark’s father. The book is dedicated to the Princeton scholars A.A. Hodge, Francis Patton and John Cairns, his professors in systematic theology.
Warfield, Benjamin B.
Selected Shorter Writings, vol. 1, 2 ed. John E. Meeter (P&R, 1970)
Works, vol. 1 – Revelation & Inspiration Buy ToC
Warfield (d. 1921), an old Princeton scholar, was one of the greatest Biblical scholars of the 20th century.
Works, vol. 9 – Biblical Doctrines Buy ToC
Works, vol. 9 – Biblical & Theological Studies Buy (P&R, 1952) ToC
Biblical Foundations in Selected Theological Studies (Eerdmans, 1958) 350 pp. ToC
The Person & Work of Christ ed. Samuel Craig Buy (P&R, 1950) 555 pp. ToC
The Lord of Glory Buy (American Tract Society, 1907) 345 pp. ToC
An exhaustive book-length, Biblical defense of the divinity of Christ from nearly every N.T. passage that relates to it.
The Right of Systematic Theology Buy (1892) 97 pp.
The Plan of Salvation Buy (1915) 133 pp.
This is a very important work. It lays out systematically the differing views of the order of God’s decrees and argues for Calvinistic Infralapsarianism.
The Power of God unto Salvation (Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1903) 265 pp. ToC
Perfectionism, vol. 1, 2 (Oxford Univ. Press, 1931) ToC 1, 2
The Development of Infant Salvation (NY: The Christian Literature Co., 1891) 65 pp. ToC
Counterfeit Miracles (NY: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1918) 335 pp. ToC
This lays out Warfield’s paradigm of cessationism. The first chapter is a summary of the Biblical teaching.
Webb, Robert
Christian Salvation: its Doctrine & Experience (Presbyterian Committee of Publication, 1921) 440 pp. ToC
“Webb (1856-1919), professor of apologetics and systematic theology at the Presbyterian Theological Seminary of Kentucky at Louisville (1909-1919), writes from a Reformed and Presbyterian perspective.” – Robert L. Reymond
This work has a similar layout as John Murray’s Redemption Accomplished and Applied. The Doctrine of Christian Salvation is salvation accomplished; the experience of it is salvation applied.
The Reformed Doctrine of Adoption Buy (Eerdmans, 1947) 185 pp. ToC
This is one of the few book length works that reformed theology has given us on the doctrine of adoption. In it is included the doctrine of the covenants, related doctrines of salvation and of the Fatherhood of God over all mankind by creation.
Theology of Infant Salvation Buy
Webb argues Biblically and historically that all infants dying in infancy are elect and go to heaven (a popular view amongst 1800’s reformed American theologians). This work touches on much of soteriology, though this webmaster has found the Biblical (and some of the historical arguments) unpersuasive.
See more of Webb’s works at Log College Press.
Machen, J. Gresham
Things Unseen: A Systematic Introduction to the Christian Faith & Reformed Theology ToC (1935; Westminster Seminary Press)
“On a Sunday afternoon in 1935, J. Gresham Machen stepped into a broadcast booth at WIP Radio in Philadelphia and began something no one had tried before: teaching Reformed theology over the radio. In the vein of C.S. Lewis’s landmark ‘Mere Christianity’ talks, Machen’s addresses are a crystal-clear articulation of the basics of the Christian faith, unfolding into an exceptional and persuasive explanation of Reformed theology. Things Unseen is both an accessible systematic theology, and a masterclass in evangelistic apologetics.”
The Christian Faith in the Modern World (Eerdmans, 1947) 260 pp. ToC
Christianity & Liberalism (1923; Dorothea Press, 2021) 215 pp.
Selected Shorter Writings, ed. D.G. Hart (P&R, 2004) 590 pp. ToC
God Transcendent & other Selected Sermons (Eerdmans, 1949) ToC
What is Faith? (Eerdmans, 1969) 260 pp. ToC
See more of Machen’s works at Internet Archive and Log College Press.
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Boettner, Loraine
Studies in Theology Buy (P&R, 1985) ToC
While not a complete systematic theology, it includes sections on: 1) Inspiration of Scripture, 2) Christian Supernaturalism, 3) The Trinity, 4) The Person of Christ and 5) The Atonement.
The Reformed Faith (P&R, 1983) 30 pp.
The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination Buy (1932)
Immortality Buy (P&R, 1956) 160 pp. ToC
The Person of Christ (Eerdmans, 1943) 210 pp. ToC
Boettner argues for postmillennialism.
The Christian Attitude Toward War 2nd rev. WWII ed. (Eerdmans, 1942) 110 pp. ToC
Lecerf, Auguste – An Introduction to Reformed Dogmatics Buy (d. 1943; London: Lutterworth Press, 1949) 405 pp. ToC
Dr. Lecerf (1872-1943) was a professor in the Protestant Faculty of Theology, University of Paris and was an orthodox calvinist. Unfortunately this volume only encompasses prolegomena to theology, as Lecerf died before he could complete the planned, whole dogmatics. John Murray has a review of this work in his Collected Writings.
Kersten, G.H.
Reformed Dogmatics, 2 vols. Buy d. 1948
Kersten (1882-1948) was a very high calvinist, Dutch-American, reformed theologian. Though orthodox, the denominarion he helped to lead, the Netherlands Reformed Congregations, has since become hyper-calvinistic.
A Treatise of the Compendium Buy (Netherlands Reformed Book & Publishing Co., 1989) 144 pp.
“Our Synod of 1956 decided to have the explanation of our ‘Compendium,’ written by the late G.H. Kersten, translated for publication in the English language.”
Berkouwer, G.C.
Studies in Dogmatics, 14 vols. (Eerdmans, 1949–1972)
General Revelation (1955) 335 pp. ToC
Holy Scripture (1975) 380 pp. ToC
Divine Election ToC
Providence of God ToC
Man: the Image of God (1962) ToC
Sin (1971) 595 pp. ToC
The Person of Christ (1954) 335 pp. ToC
Work of Christ (1965) 355 pp. ToC
Faith & Justification (1954) 205 pp. ToC
Faith & Sanctification (1952) 195 pp. ToC
Faith & Perseverance (1973) 255 pp. ToC
The Church ToC
The Sacraments (1969) 300 pp. ToC
The Return of Christ (1972) 480 pp. ToC
Berkouwer was a professor of systematic theology at the Free University of Amsterdam (the university that Abraham Kuyper started in Holland) from 194-1976. He comes from a critical reformed perspective and is weak on
Scripture and Election.
Modern Uncertainty & Christian Faith
The Conflict with Rome (Philadelphia: Presbyterian & Reformed, 1958) 320 pp. ToC
Berkhof, Louis
A Summary of Christian Doctrine Buy (Banner of Truth, 2005) 175 pp. ToC
One of the best, easy to read introductions to the Christian faith at the beginner level.
Manual of Christian [or Reformed] Doctrine (Eerdmans, 1933) 375 pp. ToC
A concise and easy to read, medium length abridgment of his Systematic Theology
Reformed Dogmatics: Introduction (Eerdmans, 1932) 215 pp.
This covers Prolegomena issues such as theological definition and method, and General and Special Revelation. It was published initially as a separate work and has not always been included in editions of the his systematic theology.
Systematic Theology Buy (Eerdmans, 1996) 990 pp. ToC 1, 2 This edition includes Introduction to the Study of Systematic Theology which was previously a separate work but intended to be read with his Systematic Theology. It also includes a Preface by Richard Muller.
This is a classic, brief, one volume systematic theology. It was originally intended to be an abbreviated summary of the thought of Bavinck’s four volume Reformed Dogmatics.
Textual Aid to Systematic Theology: a Practical Handbook to Professor Berkhof’s Systematic Theology, with all the essential proof texts… printed in full… (Eerdmans, 1942) 115 pp. ToC
Subjects & Outlines (Eerdmans-Sevensma Company, 1918) 200 pp.
The Second Coming of Christ (Eerdmans, 1953)
Principles of Biblical Interpretation: Sacred Hermeneutics 2nd ed. (Baker, 1952) ToC
Niesel, Wilhelm – pt. 3, ‘The Gospel & the Churches of the Reformation’ in Reformed Symbolics: a Comparison of Catholicism, Orthodoxy & Protestantism tr. David Lewis (Oliver & Boyd, 1962), pp. 169-303
Henry, Carl
God, Revelation & Authority, vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Buy (Waco, TX: Word Books, 1976-1983) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Henry was an influential evangelical of the mid-1900’s and professor of theology at Fuller Theological Seminary. His work is massive, philosophical and something of a modern bedrock in its field. While not a complete systematic theology, it is a more than complete defense of the doctrine of God and revelation.
Edited by Henry:
Contemporary Evangelical Thought: Basic Christian Doctrines Buy (Great Neck, NY: Channel Press, 1957) 301 pp. ToC
This contains 43 chapters, in systematic form, from many of the leading evangelical teachers in America from the mid-1900’s, including: Allis, Berkouwer, Bromiley, F.F. Bruce, Buswell, Geldenhuys, Gerstner, Hoekema, Philip Hughes, Klooster, Leon Morris, Motyer, John Murray, Roger Nicole, J.I. Packer, Van Til et al.
Contemporary Evangelical Thought: Christian Faith & Modern Theology (NY: Channel Press, 1964) 448 pp. ToC
Revelation & the Bible: Contemporary Evangelical Thought (Baker, 1958) 415 pp. ToC
Buswell, Oliver
Systematic Theology Buy (1962)
Buswell was a professor of systematic theology at Covenant Theological Seminary from 1956-70. While reformed and presbyterian, he has broad evangelical influences, is premillennial and defends evidential apologetics.
“…provides interesting and original interpretations of many biblical texts. His systematics is very readable.” – Robert L. Reymond
A Christian view of Being & Knowing: an Introduction to Philosophy
Problems in the Prayer Life, from a Pastor’s Question Box (Chicago: Bible Institute Colportage Association) ToC
Kuiper, R.B.
The Bible Tells us So Buy (Hazell Watson & Viney, 1968) 145 pp.
Kuiper (d. 1966). This is a short systematic for beginners. At the same time it is worth the reference of the advanced student to read the concise thoughts of this great Dutch-American theologian.
The Glorious Body of Christ: A Scriptural Appreciation of the One Holy Church Buy (Banner of Truth, 1967)
This is a medium length systematic theology on the Church. Unique in its field, solid, balanced and very much worth the read.
Packer, J.I.
Concise Theology: a Guide to Historic Christian Beliefs Buy (Tyndale House, 1993) 288 pp. ToC
Christianity: the True Humanism with Thomas Howard (Word, 1985) ToC
I want to be a Christian (Tyndale House, 1977) 310 pp. ToC
This includes commentaries on the Apostles’ Creed, baptism and conversion, the Lord’s Prayer and the Ten Commandments.
Scripture
Truth & Power: the Place of Scripture in the Christian Life (Wheaton, Ill: H. Shaw Publishers, 1996) 255 pp. ToC
God has Spoken: Revelation & the Bible (London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1979) 160 pp. ToC
Under God’s Word (London: Marshall Morgan & Scott, 1980) 160 pp. ToC
Freedom, Authority & Scripture (IVP, 1982) 65 pp. ToC
Beyond the Battle for the Bible (Westchester, Ill: Cornerstone Books, 1980) 165 pp. ToC
The Ten Commandments (Tyndale House, 1982) 80 pp. ToC
Discerning the Will of God
Keep in Step with the Spirit (IVP, 1995) 300 pp. ToC
Decisions: Finding God’s Will with Dale & Sandy Larsen (IVP, 1996) 60 pp. ToC
God’s Plans for You (Crossway, 2001) 215 pp. ToC
Guard Us, Guide Us with Carolyn Nystrom (Baker, 2008) 270 pp. ToC
Evangelism & the Sovereignty of God (IVP, 1961) 130 pp. ToC
J.I. Packer Answers Questions for Today with Wendy Zoba (Tyndale House, 2001) 135 pp. ToC
Anthologies
ed. Alister McGrath – The J.I. Packer Collection (IVP, 2000) 285 pp. ToC
ed. Feia, Beth –Great Power: Exploring the Character of God (Kingsway Publications, 2000) 140 pp. ToC This is laid out in systematic form.
Hoeksema, Herman – Reformed Dogmatics (1966; Grand Rapids: Reformed Free Publishing Association, 1985) 935 pp. ToC
Hoeksema (1886-1965) was one of the founding ‘fathers’ of the Protestant Reformed Churches (PRC), a Dutch denomination in America.
Due to Hoeksema’s tendency towards hyper-calvinism, his significant errors regarding covenant theology and his adamant denial of common grace, this systematic is not recommended.
“Hoeksema’s variance with the Westminster standards may be seen on many points of doctrine. But more than disagreement on a number of individual points, there is a systemic contrast. His opposition to the free offer is not incidental to his theology, but is integral to his wide-ranging reconstruction of covenant theology.” – Sherman Isbell, ‘Samuel Rutherford and the Preached Covenant’ in ed. Vogan, Samuel Rutherford, An Introduction to his Theology (Scottish Reformation Society, 2012)
Murray, John
Collected Writings, vols. 1, 2 of 4 Buy (d. 1975) ToC 1, 2
Volumes 1 & 2 hit most of the topics of systematic theology. A number of articles from chapters of his Collected Writings can be found online at Monergism.
The Imputation of Adam’s Sin Buy
Invaluable for clearly discerning and navigating the issues.
Redemption Accomplished & Applied Buy
This covers most of soteriology and is some of the best on the topic.
The Atonement in An International Library of Philosophy & Theology (P&R, 1962) 36 pp. ToC Biblio
Murray expounds numerous issues related to baptism, including its meaning, who should be baptized, infant baptism and baptism by sprinkling.
Divorce Buy (P&R, 1961) 128 pp.
Murray, the early Westminster Seminary professor, in this solid book, argues exegetically on the topic, inline with the position of the Westminster Confession.
See more of Murray’s works at Log College Press.
Ferguson, Sinclair
Article
‘The Reformed View’ in ed. Donald L. Alexander, Christian Spirituality: Five Views of Sanctification (IVP, 1988), pp. 47-76
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Books
Know Your Christian Life: a Theological Introduction (IVP, 1981) 185 pp. ToC This was later published as The Christian Life: a Doctrinal Introduction.
A Heart for God: if He can be Known, how can we Discover Him? (NavPress, 1985) 175 pp. ToC
The Holy Spirit in Countours of Christian Theology (IVP, 1996) 280 pp. ToC
Children of the Living God (NavPress, 1987) 160 pp. ToC
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Boice, James Montgomery
Foundations of the Christian Faith: a Comprehensive & Readable Theology Buy (IVP, 1986) 745 pp. ToC
“Boice, pastor of Tenth Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia, writes popularly form a Reformed and Presbyterian perspective. The laity will find Boice’s volumes very helpful.” – Robert L. Reymond
This work was previously published in 4 vols.: The Sovereign God (1978), God the Redeemer (1978), Awakening to God (1979), God & History (1981).
Standing on the Rock: Biblical Authority in a Secular Age (Baker, 1994) 190 pp. ToC
Dealing with Bible Problems: Alleged Errors & Contradictions in the Bible (PA: Christian Literature Crusade, 1999) 45 pp. ToC
Amazing Grace (Tyndale House, 1993) 285 pp. ToC
with Phil Ryken, The Doctrines of Grace: Rediscovering the Evangelical Gospel (Crossway, 2002) 230 pp. ToC
See more books by Boice at Internet Archive.
Muller, Richard – Post-Reformation Reformed Dogmatics: the Rise & Development of Reformed Theology, ca. 1520 – ca. 1725, vol. 1 (Prolegomena to Theology), 2 (Holy Scripture, the Cognitive Foundation of Theology), 3 (The Divine Essence & Attributes), 4 (The Triunity of God) 2nd ed. Buy (Baker Books, 2003) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4 This second edition has some valuable revisions and additions, as well as being greatly expanded into four volumes from two.
Muller is one of the world’s leading historians of reformed theology; this set is why. Muller analyzes and summarizes both the reformation and later puritan theology of the 1500-1600’s in the layout of a systematic theology. The four volumes do not include the whole of systematic theology, but only the beginning part.
Finlayson, R.A. – Reformed Theological Writings Buy 272 pp.
Finlayson (d. 1989) was one of the last century’s best reformed theologians in the world, though unknown to many in America. He was a professor of systematic theology in the Free Church of Scotland. This, one of his main works, follows the order of the Westminster Confession in expositing the Christian faith. Though this is a medium sized work, the most knowledgeable person in systematics will find many insights and much that is original and helpful.
Smith, Morton
Systematic Theology, 2 vols. Buy (1994)
Smith was a founding professor of both RTS, Jackson and Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. This set is something of the form of notes that he used for much of his classes on systematics. His focus is on the Dutch and Southern Presbyterians.
Testimony Buy (1986) 148 pp.
This work is a brief systematic overview of Christian theology at the beginner or intermediate level.
Bahnsen, Greg – ‘Outline of Systematic Theology’ (†1995) 41 pp. This outline was designed for eldership training.
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Sproul, R.C.
Essential Truths of the Christian Faith Buy (1998) 330 pp. ToC
Sproul writes for the person in between an adult Sabbath school class and seminary. Sproul systematically explains 100 doctrines of the Christian faith. If you are a new Christian, this book will be helpful; if otherwise, see below.
What is Reformed Theology? Understanding the Basics Buy
Sproul covers foundations of the Reformed Faith and the 5-Points of Calvinism.
Everyone’s a Theologian: an Introduction to Systematic Theology Buy
A step up from the previous work, but perhaps one of the most readable and engaging beginner systematic theologies out there. Great for the common Christian.
Chosen by God Buy (Tyndale House, 1986) 205 pp. ToC
The modern, beginner classic on unconditional election and God’s full predestination. This work has taught a whole generation of emerging reformed folk. The weakness of the book is that it is a bit school-book-like and is lacking in experiential relevance, savor and depth. For the latter see works on the same topic by John Newton or Charles Spurgeon.
Truths We Confess: a Layman’s Guide to the Westminster Confession of Faith, vol. 1, 2, 3 Buy (2006-2007) ToC 1, 2, 3
A commentary on the Westminster Confession of Faith, forming a layman’s Systematic Theology.
Renewing Your Mind: Basic Christian Beliefs you Need to Know (Baker, 1998) 215 pp. ToC
Basic Training: Plain Talk on the Key Truths of the Faith (Zondervan, 1982) 180 pp. ToC
This is a commentary on the Apostles’ Creed.
Now that’s a Good Question! (Tyndale House, 1996) 615 pp. ToC
Ultimate Issues (Baker, 1996) 80 pp. ToC
Objections Answered (Glendale, CA: GL Regal Books, 1978) 150 pp. ToC
Lifeviews: Make a Christian Impact on Culture & Society (Revell, 1986) 205 pp. ToC
Can I Trust the Bible? (Reformation Trust, 2009) 90 pp. ToC
Scripture Alone: the Evangelical Doctrine (P&R, 2005) 215 pp. ToC
Knowing Scripture (IVP, 2009) 145 pp. ToC
The Holiness of God (Tyndale House, 1987) 235 pp. ToC
The Mystery of the Holy Spirit (Christian Focus Publications, 1991) 185 pp. ToC
The Invisible Hand: Do All Things Really Work for Good? (P&R, 2003) 225 pp. ToC
Mighty Christ (Christian Focus Publications, 1995) 135 pp. ToC
The Glory of Christ (Tyndale House, 1994) 220 pp. ToC
The Work of Christ: What the Events of Jesus’ Life Mean for You (Colorado Springs: David Cook, 2012) 232 pp. ToC
The Truth of the Cross (Reformation Trust, 2007) 180 pp. ToC
Grace Unknown: the Heart of Reformed Theology (Baker, 1997) 230 pp. ToC
This includes expositions of the foundations of reformed theology and T.U.L.I.P.
Faith Alone: The Evangelical Doctrine of Justification (Baker, 1995) 215 pp. ToC
The Last Days According to Jesus: When did Jesus Say He would Return? (Baker, 2015) 260 pp. ToC
Sproul is a Partial-Preterist.
Ethics & the Christian (Tyndale House, 1983) 90 pp. ToC
How then Shall we Worship? Biblical Principles to Guide us Today (Colorado Springs: David C. Cook, 2013) 245 pp. ToC
with John Gerstner & Arthur Lindsley – Classical Apologetics: a Rational Defense of the Christian Faith & a Critique of Presuppositional Apologetics (Academie Books, 1984) 370 pp. ToC
See more books of Sproul at Internet Archive.
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Reymond, Robert L. – A New Systematic Theology of the Christian Faith 1st ed. Buy (Thomas Nelson, 1998) 1,160 pp. ToC
This is one of the better, newer systematic theologies. Reymond was a professor at Covenant Theological Seminary and Knox Theological Seminary for over 25 years. Reymond follows the lead of Gordon Clark on numerous issues. See the review of W. Gary Crampton.
The work does have important weaknesses to stay away from, including the non-Augustinian teaching that time is co-ordinate with God, and, in some editions, a bringing into question the Son’s eternal begotteness.
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Since 2000 (11)
Rushdoony, R.J. – Systematic Theology, 2 vols. Buy (1994 / 2000)
Rushdoony (1916–2001) was something of the father of the modern Reconstructionist and Theonomy movement. He often uses innovative paradigms, and, for that reason, is not always a reliable guide.
Culver, Robert Duncan – Systematic Theology: Biblical & Historical Buy (Mentor, 2005) 1,304 pp.
Culver (1916-2015) was a professor of theology at Wheaton College and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. While his work appears to be broadly evangelical, yet he defends limited atonement and regeneration as logically prior to faith.
Here is a stimulating sketch and interview about his life at Desiring God. Here is a helpful review of his volume.
“Here is a bold, comprehensive, and faithful systematic theology.” – R. Albert Mohler, Jr.
Cheung, Vincent – Systematic Theology Buy (2010) 210 pp.
This systematic is self published. Cheung largely follows in the footsteps of Gordon Clark and emphasizes philosophical aspects of the Christian faith. The systematic does not include sections on ecclessiology and eschatology. Other works of his, some of which are of a systematic nature, are here.
Van Genderen, J. & W.H. Velema – Concise Reformed Dogmatics tr. Bilkes & Van der Maas Buy (P&R, 2008) 944 pp.
See Dr. McGraw’s review. For an extensive review, see James E. Dolezal, The Confessional Presbyterian, vol. 5, 2009, 278-283. See also the review by Wes Bredenhof.
Kelly, Douglas
Systematic Theology, vol. 1 (God), 2 (Christ), 3 (Holy Spirit, Church) Buy (Mentor, 2009)
Kelly was a long-time professor at RTS Charlotte.
Creation & Change: Gen. 1:1-2:4 in the Light of Changing Scientific Paradigms (Mentor, 1997) 260 pp. ToC
Kelly holds to 24 hour days.
Gamble, Richard – The Whole Counsel of God Buy (P&R, 2009, 2021)
vol. 1: God’s Mighty Acts in the Old Testament 718 pp.
vol. 2: The Full Revelation of God 1,144 pp.
vol. 3: God’s People in the Western World 1,216 pp.
Horton, Michael S.
Books
The Christian Faith: a Systematic Theology for Pilgrims on the Way Buy (Zondervan, 2011) 1,052 pp.
Pilgrim Theology: Core Doctrines for Christian Disciples (Zondervan, 2011) 505 pp. ToC
God of Promise: Introducing Covenant Theology (Baker, 2006) 200 pp. ToC
For Calvinism (Zondervan, 2011) 200 pp. ToC
Putting Amazing back into Grace (London: Hodder & Stouhton) 315 pp. ToC Foreward: J.I. Packer
Lord & Servant: a Covenant Christology (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2005) 290 pp. ToC
Covenant & Salvation: Union with Christ (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2007) 325 pp. ToC
Covenant & Eschatology: the Divine Drama (Loiuisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2002) 350 pp. ToC
See more books by Horton at Internet Archive.
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Edited by Horton
Christ the Lord: the Reformation & Lordship Salvation (1993) ToC
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Beeke, Joel
with Mark Jones – A Puritan Theology: Doctrine for Life Buy (RHB, 2012) 1,060 pp. ToC
Here are 60 chapters, each analyzing the puritans, or a given puritan, on a specific doctrine, laid out after the form of a systematic theology. While this volume will be welcome to any that love the puritans, contains much heart religion and valuable contributions are made on numerous topics, sometimes the chapters read like a series of 20 page seminary papers.
with Paul Smalley – Reformed Systematic Theology (Crossway, 2019-2021) Buy
vol. 1: Revelation & God
vol. 2: Man & Christ
vol. 3: Spirit & Salvation
Tough Questions about the Bible (Christian Focus, 2013) 120 pp. ToC
Puritan Reformed Theology: Historical, Experiential & Practical Studies for the Whole of Life Buy (RHB, 2020) 752 pp.
This is a collection of 41 of Beeke’s articles, arranged by topic.
Truth that Frees: a Workbook on Reformed Doctrine for Young Adults (RHB) 423 pp.
Debated Issues in Sovereign Predestination (Vandenhoek & Ruprecht) 252 pp.
‘What did the Reformers Believe about the Age of the Earth?’ 16 pp.
God’s Grace Shining through the Law (RHB) 160 pp.
Heirs with Christ: the Puritans on Adoption (RHB) 134 pp.
On Assurance
Knowing & Growing in Assurance of Faith (Christian Focus) 192 pp.
The Quest for Full Assurance (RHB) 395 pp.
Puritan Evangelism: a Biblical Approach (RHB) 78 pp.
Edited by Beeke
The Beauty & Glory of the Father (RHB) 156 pp.
The Beauty & Glory of Christ (RHB) 256 pp.
The Beauty & Glory of the Holy Spirit (RHB) 345 pp.
The Beauty & Glory of God’s Word (RHB) 160 pp.
The Beauty & Glory of Christ’s Bride (RHB) 180 pp.
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Bray, Gerald
Article
‘The Trinity: Where do we go from here?’ in ed. A.T. McGowan, Always Reforming: Explorations in Systematic Theology Buy (IVP Academic, 2007), pp. 19-40
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Books
God is Love: a Biblical & Systematic Theology Buy (Crossway, 2012) 768 pp.
God has Spoken: a History of Christian Theology Buy (2014)
Biblical Interpretation: Past & Present (IVP, 1996) 600 pp. ToC
The Faith we Confess: an Exposition of the 39 Articles Buy (Latimer Trust, 2009) 238 pp.
A Christian Theological Language Buy (Latimer House, 1989) 38 pp.
The Personal God (Paternoster Press, 1998) 78 pp. ToC
Knowing Jesus Buy (Kingsway, 1986) 192 pp.
Creeds, Councils & Christ (IVP, 1984) 215 pp. ToC
Yours is the Kingdom: a Systematic Theology of the Lord’s Prayer Buy (IVP, 2007) 208 pp.
The Church: a Theological & Historical Account Buy (Baker Academic, 2016) 288 pp.
Sacraments & Ministry in Ecumenical Perspective (Oxford: Latimer House, 1984) 42 pp. ToC
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Edited by Bray
We Believe in One God (Ancient Christian Doctrine) Buy (IVP Academic, 2009) 201 pp.
The Doctrine of God Buy (IVP, 1992) 272 pp. ToC
Documents of the English Reformation Buy (Fortress Press, 1995) 674 pp. ToC
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Frame, John
Systematic Theology: an Introduction to Christian Belief Buy (P&R, 2013) 1,280 pp.
Frame views and organizes Christian Theology through the Lordship of God and ‘tri-perspectivalism‘. Not recommended. His views on worship are atrocious. Here is a 240 page excerpt of the systematic.
The Doctrine of the Knowledge of God (P&R, 1997) 455 pp. ToC
Allen, Michael & Scott R. Swain – Christian Dogmatics: Reformed Theology for the Church Catholic Buy (Baker, 2016) 416 pp.
Letham, Robert
Systematic Theology Buy (Crossway, 2019) 1,072 pp.
The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology & Worship rev. & expanded Buy (P&R, 2019) 704 pp.
The Message of the Person of Christ (The Bible Speaks Today Bible Themes Series) Buy (IVP, 2020) 264 pp.
The Work of Christ in Contours of Christian Theology Buy (IVP, 1993) 284 pp. ToC
Through Western Eyes: Eastern Orthodoxy: A Reformed Perspective Buy (Mentor, 2010) 320 pp.
Union with Christ: In Scripture, History & Theology Buy (P&R, 2011) 176 pp.
A Christian’s Pocket Guide to Baptism: The Water that Unites (Pocket Guides) Buy (Christian Focus, 2012) 128 pp.
The Westminster Assembly: Reading Its Theology in Historical Context (Westminster Assembly and the Reformed Faith) Buy (P&R, 2009) 416 pp.
The Lord’s Supper: Eternal Word in Broken Bread (P&R, 2001) 75 pp. ToC
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Related Pages