Bibliography on Denominational History,
Polity, and Ecclesiastical Theory
T. David Gordon
January, 1987. Revised September, 1989; Revised and Annotated, December, 1991; Revised, November, 1993;
June, 1995. Additions by Dr. Morton H. Smith of Greenville Theological Seminary, January, 1996 (indicated by #)
(Library numbers refer to the holdings in the Goddard Library at Gordon-Conwell)
General Presbyterian History in America
#Baird, Samuel J. A Collection of the Acts, Deliverances and Testimonies of the Supreme
Judicatory of Presbyterian Church, From Its Origin in America to the Present Time, with
Notes and Documents, Explanatory and Historical. Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of
Publication, 1856.
#Gillet, E. H. History of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. 2 vols.
Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publications, 1864.
#Minutes of the Presbyterian Church in America, 1706-88.
#Minutes of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of the United States of America.
Moore, William E. The Presbyterian Digest of 1886. A Compend of the Acts and Deliverances
of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America.
Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board, 1886. [Moore’s first “digest” had been published in 1873.
W. A. Alexander published one in 1898, and there are several others. Each of these is valuable,
in permitting a student of Presbyterianism access to General Assembly actions on a variety of
subjects. The limitation is that none are exhaustive, and some are inexplicably selective
(sometimes including related acts of, say 1835 and 1872, but omitting an action on the same topic
in 1845). Nevertheless, as a first step of research, a digest is quicker than reading through the
indices to the minutes of each Presbyterian body!]
Nevin, Alfred, ed. Encyclopaedia of the Presbyterian Church of America: Including the
Northern and Southern Assemblies. Philadelphia: Presbyterian Publishing Co., 1884.
[This volume is a rich mine of information regarding American Presbyterianism to 1884. There
are articles on individuals, on particular churches, on distinctive doctrines, on the spread of
Presbyterianism in various regions, etc.]
Presbyterian Reunion: A Memorial Volume. New York: Lent & Company, 1870. [This volume,
celebrating the reunion of the Old School and New School parties in the Northern Church,
contains some interesting historical material. The first chapter, written by Samuel Miller (the
younger), reviews the history of the OS branch since the division in 1837; the second chapter, by
Jonathan F. Stearns, reviews the NS branch for the same period. In the third chapter, Wm.
Sprague supplies biographical sketches of prominent figures in the OS; in the fourth, Z. M.
Humphrey provides the same for the NS branch. William Adams then provides a chapter on the
reunion, and there is a chapter on the two 1869 assemblies (in which the decision to reunite was
carried by both bodies). The appendices contain some significant statistical information for the
period in question.]
#Patton, Jacob Harris. A Popular History of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of
America. New York: Appleton, 1903.
1
Smith, Morton. Studies in Southern Presbyterian Theology. 1962. Reprint, Presbyterian &
Reformed, 1987. [Those with short memories may not know that Dr. Smith, in addition to
having taught at Reformed Seminary and having founded Greenville Seminary, was the first
Stated Clerk of the Presbyterian Church in America (for 15 years). He is widely and correctly
regarded as both an able student of the Southern Presbyterian Church and an able student of
Presbyterianism. While this volume covers only Southern Presbyterianism, it does assist
profoundly in that sphere, and includes a good amount of biographical information.]
Sprague, William B. Annals of the American Presbyterian Pulpit; or Commemorative Notices of
Distinguished Clergymen of the Presbyterian Church in the United States. (2 vols). New
York: Carter, 1860. [Sprague edited a multi-volume series that covered several denominations,
and these two volumes are devoted to Presbyterians. It includes biographies of “distinguished”
clergy who had ceased their earthly toils prior to 1855. This is somewhat unfortunate, because
the volume thus necessarily omits many significant Presbyterian figures whose careers were at
their zenith in 1855, e.g, Charles Hodge, Gardiner Spring, J. W. Alexander, Benjamin Morgan
Palmer, John B. Adger, Robert Lewis Dabney, James Henley Thornwell. Nevertheless, it includes
significant early figures, from Francis Mackemie through the Tennants, Samuel Blair, David
Brainerd, Samuel Davies, John Witherspoon, Samuel Stanhope Smith, Moses Hoge, Ashbel
Green, to Samuel Miller, Archibald Alexander, and Francis Scott Sampson. Most of the articles
are not written by Sprague, but by those who knew the subjects well].
#Webster, Richard. A History of the Presbyterian Church in America, from its Origin Until the
Year 1760, with Biographical Sketches of its Early Ministers. Philadelphia: Joseph M.
Wilson, 1857.
Ecclesiastical Histories
Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church
Kennedy, W. A., ed. Sesquicentennial History of the ARPC. Jacob Brothers: 1951. BX 8999
.A82 A3.
Kung, Roy, A History of the ARPC Board of Christian Education, ARPC: 1966. BX 8999 .A82
K586.
Orthodox Presbyterian Church
Dennison, Charles, ed. The Orthodox Presbyterian Church 1936-86. Philadelphia, PA: The
Committee for the Historian of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 1986. BX 8999 .O62
07. [Contains general articles on the OPC’s founding and history, and information on all the
particular churches in the OPC as of the date of writing.]
--------, and Richard Gamble, eds. Pressing Toward the Mark. Corapolis, PA: The Committee
for the Historian of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 1986. BX8999 .O65 P73. [Not a
history per se, though there are historical articles within it; this collection introduces fairly well the
ethos of the OPC.]
Minutes of General Assembly. BX 8999 .06 A3.
2
Presbyterian Church in America
Hutchinson, George P. The History of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Evangelical Synod.
Cherry Hill, N. J.: Mack Publishing Co, 1974. BX 8999 .R53 H89.
--------. (Forthcoming authorized history of the PCA).
Loetscher, Lefferts A. A Brief History of the Presbyterians. Fourth edition. Philadelphia:
Westminster, 1983.
--------. The Broadening Church: A Study of Theological Issues in the Presbyterian Church
Since 1869. Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania Press, 1954. [This frequentlyreprinted work is a history of “mainline” Presbyterianism, from a decidedly favorable perspective.
As such, it is also an apology for the broadening tendencies of mainline Presbyterianism in the
twentieth century. Very well-written, this is an excellent introduction into the ethos of the PCUSA.]
Marsden, George M. “Perspective on the Division of 1937.” Pressing Toward the Mark. Essays
Commemorating Fifty Years of the ORthodox Presbyterian Church. Edited by Charles G.
Dennison and Richard C. Gamble. Philadelphia: The Committee for the Historian of the
Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 1986, pp. 295-328.
#PCA Digest, 1973-1993. A Digest of the Minutes of the Presbyterian Church in America. 2
vols. Atlanta, GA, 1993.
Smith, Frank J. The History of the Presbyterian Church in America: The Continuing Church
Movement. Manassas, Va: Reformation Educational Foundation, 1985. BX 8999 .P732
S64. [Privately published, this perspective on the PCA suggests, in its title, that the PCA is a
“continuing” church, continuing the confession and heritage of the earlier PCUS.]
Smartt, Kennedy. I Am Reminded: An Autobiographical, Anecdotal History of the Presbyterian
Church in America. n.p., n.d., c. 1994. [Like Williamson, Smartt was one of the founders of
the PCA. This volume provides some behind-the-scenes information about events leading to the
formation and history of the PCA, and also includes vignettes of some of its more colorful figures.]
*Williamson, W. Jackson. History of the Presbyterian Church in America. n.p., n.d. [This is a
compilation of 14 documents and addresses, collected by the first moderator of the PCA, Jack
Williamson. They are primary sources, that enable one to discern something of the
circumstances and ethos that produced the PCA. They are available from the bookstore at
Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, MS, where Mr. Williamson instructs in church polity.]
Yearbook of the Presbyterian Church in America. BX 8999 .P7 A35.
Minutes of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in America. BX 8999 .P71 A3.
Christian Reformed Church
3
Bratt, James D. Dutch Calvinism in Modern America: A History of a Conservative Subculture.
Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1985. BX 9495 .B73.
#Heyns, William. Handbook for Elders and Deacons. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1928.
Kromminga, J. The Christian Reformed Church: A Study in Orthodoxy. Grand Rapids: Baker,
1949. BX 6815 .K75.
De Klerk, Peter, and Richard R. De Ridder, eds. Perspectives on the Christian Reformed
Church: Studies in History, Theology and Ecumenicity Presented in Honor of John Henry
Kromminga. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1983. BX 6809 .P47.
Manual of Christian Reformed Church Government. BX 6826 .B74.
#Schaver, J. L., Christian Reformed Church Order. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1937.
#--------. The Polity of the Churches. 2 vols. Vol. 1 Concerns for All Churches of Christendom.
Vol. 2, Concerns of Reformed Church Polity. The Christian Reformed Church. Grand
Rapids: Grand Rapids International Publications, 1956.
Yearbook of the Christian Reformed Church. BX 6807.
Acts of Synod of the Christian Reformed Church. BX 6805.
Reformed Church in America
Brouwer, A. Reformed Church Roots. USA: Reformed Church Press, 1977. BX 9515 .B68.
de Jong, Gerald F. The Dutch Reformed Church in the American Colonies. Author, 1978. BX
9515 .D39.
Book of Church Order. BX 9522 .A3.
Minutes of the General Synod of the Reformed Church in America. BX 9507 .A5.
Reformed Presbyterian Çhurch in North America
Delivuk, John Allen. The Doctrine and History of Worship in the Reformed Presbyterian
Church of North America. Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary: Author, 1982.
BX 8995 .D44.
Presbyterian Church in the United States
(Southern Presbyterian Church)
#Foote, William Henry. Sketches of North Carolina: Historical and Biographical. New York:
Robert Carter, 1846. Rprt.
4
#--------. Sketches of Virginia: Historical and Biographical. Vol. 1. Philadelphia: William
Martien, 1850. Vol. 2. New York: J. B. Lippincott & Co., 1855.
#Johnson, Thomas Cary. A History of the Southern Presbyterian Church. American Church
History Series, Vol. XI. New York, 1894.
#Ministerial Directory of the Presbyterian Church, U. S. Various editions, 1941, 1951, 1967,
1975, 1983.
#A Digest of the Acts and Proceedings of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in
the United States. Several editions, 1887, 1898, 1910, 1922, 1944, 1965.
#Smith, Morton H. How Is the Gold Become Dim. Jackson, MS: Steering Committee for a
Continuing Presbyterian Church, 1973. [This volume contains a narrative of significant
church-decisions in the PCUS that eventually persuaded many of its ministers and churches of
the necessity of withdrawing from its communion. It is not merely a coincidence that the PCA was
formed in the same year that this volume was published.]
#Thompson, Ernest Trice. Presbyterians in the South. 3 vols. Richmond, VA: John Knox
Press, 1963. [Thompson, who taught Ecclesiastical History at Union Theological Seminary in
VA, was also one of the significant denominational figures in the PCUS from the 1950’s through
the seventies. Thompson was widely regarded as a significant instigator of liberal theological
tendencies in that communion.]
Ecclesiology: Sacraments, Worship, Ministry, Government
[N.B. Works marked with an asterisk are considered to be
of special importance; and should be obtained, if available.]
*Adams, Jay E. Handbook of Church Discipline. Ministers Resource Library. Grand Rapids:
Zondervan, 1986. [Page for page (only 120) there is probably more good material here than in
anything else you are likely to read. This volume is a must for officer-training, and should be read
by every church-member.]
Alexander, James Waddell. Thoughts on Preaching. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1988
(1864). [A son of Archibald Alexander, James Waddel had a fruitful ministry in its own right
(R.L. Dabney, in his own book on preaching, made approving reference to “this eminent and
useful pastor”). The work is divided into three parts. The first, “homiletical paragraphs,” consists
of Alexander’s diary on preaching, and many of these remarks are valuable, despite the
randomness of the comments. The second part, “Letters to Young Ministers,” is the heart of the
book, consisting of ten chapters discussing devotion to the work, personal piety, a minister’s
study habits and diligence (three letters), an interesting chapter on learned pastors, and three
chapters on extempore preaching (to be read if nothing else in the book is read). The third part
consists of five chapters, two of an historical nature (“The Pulpit in Ancient and Modern Times”
and “Eloquence of the French Pulpit”) and one each on “Studies and Discipline of the Preacher,”
“The Matter of Preaching,” and “Expository Preaching.” As most of the books of this era, this one
is characterized (by contrast with most of the more recent works) by much discussion of what
preaching is, and relatively less prominence is given to giving “steps,” or “how-to” advice. For
instance, even the substantial chapters on extempore preaching and expository preaching, both of
which are largely methodological, are discussions of the propriety and wisdom of these
5
approaches; not merely rules for how to do them. Since I first read this book, I have never really
stopped reading it, but find myself reading it, or parts of it, again and again.]
Alston, Wallace M. The Church. Guides to the Reformed Tradition, ed. John H. Leith and John
W. Kuykendall. Atlanta: John Knox, 1982. BV 600.2 .A45.
Avis, Paul D. L. The Church in the Theology of the Reformers. New Foundations Theological
Library. Atlanta: John Knox, 1981. BV 598 .A93.
Baird, Charles. Presbyterian Liturgies. 1855; rpt., Grand Rapids: Baker, 1960. [This volume was
quite significant when first published, because it resulted from discovering a number of
manuscripts in Europe convincingly demonstrating that fixed forms/liturgies were employed by
Calvin, Knox, Richard Baxter, et. al.]
*Bannerman, James. The Church of Christ. 2 vols. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1960;
Still Waters Revival Books, Edmonton, 1991. BV 600 .B22. [This may very well be the
finest single work on ecclesiology ever written in the Presbyterian tradition. It is comprehensive in
scope, and historically and theologically compelling. If you can purchase one while they are still in
print, do so.]
Barker, William S. “A Response to Professor George Knight's Article ‘Subscription to the
Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechism.’” Presbuterion 10, no. 1-2 (Spring/Fall,
1984): 64-71. [This is part of a 4-piece exchange between Barker and George Knight, see
below.]
--------. “Subscription to the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms.” Presbuterion
10, no. 1-2 (Spring/Fall, 1984): 1-19.
Bogue, Carl W. The Scriptural Law of Worship. With an appendix on “Church Power in
Relation to Worship,” by William Cunningham. Dallas, TX: Presbyterian Heritage
Publications, 1988.
Breckinridge, Robert J. Presbyterian Government, Not a Hierarchy, But a Commonwealth.
Edited, with an introductory essay by Kevin Reed. Dallas, TX: Presbyterian Heritage
Publications, 1988. [This essay by the influential Breckinridge addresses “whether our church
constitution establishes a government under which the final power and the actual authority are in
the hands of the preachers as preachers, or (in the hands) of the body of Christian people to be
exercised through officers regularly connected with them…” As was common in the early-to-mid
19th century, Presbyterians expended probably more energy distinguishing themselves from
Episcopacy (as was also true in the case of their forbears in the British isles) than from
independency (though they did this also on occasion).]
Bridges, Charles. The Christian Ministry With an Inquiry Into the Causes of its Inefficiency.
Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1983. [This is a well-known treatise on the practical
demands, disciplines, and privileges of the Christian ministry.]
*Broadus, John A. A Treatise on the Preparation and Delivery of Sermons. 1870; reprinted
many times. [This volume is justly considered a classic work on preaching, and its general
similarity to Dabney’s volume indicates the widespread agreement on the nature and method of
6
preaching in previous centuries. Often overlooked is the final chapter on the “Conduct of Public
Worship,” (476-504) a valuable, wisdom-packed discussion. This chapter has separate treatment
of scripture-reading, hymns and their selection, public prayer, length of services, and pulpit
decorum. If nothing else, photocopy these pages and re-read them often.]
Brown, Mark R., ed. Order in the Offices. Duncansville, PA: Classic Presbyterian Government
Resources, 1994. [A collection of essays on the offices in the Presbyterian form of government,
especially focusing on the distinct role of minister of the Word. This collection includes several
19th-century essays by Charles Hodge and Thomas Smyth, and both new and reprinted articles
from the twentieth century.]
Burroughs, Jeremiah. Gospel Worship. The Right Manner of Sanctifying the Name of God in
Hearing the Word; Prayer; and Receiving the Lord's Supper. Original, 1648. Reprint,
Soli Deo Gloria, 1990. [Very practical instructions regarding preparation for and participation in
worship.]
Clowney, Edmund P. “Distinctive Emphases in Presbyterian Church Polity.” Pressing Toward
the Mark, op. cit., 99-110. [This is a "sleeper." It is one of the briefest able expressions of the
Presbyterian understanding of limited, or "regulated" government in the church, doing so, as was
historically by Owen and Bannerman, by reference to the liberty of conscience.]
Cullmann, Oscar. Early Christian Worship. Trans. A. Stewart Todd and James B. Torrance.
London: SCM Press, 1953.
--------. and F. J. Leenhardt. Essays on the Lord's Supper. Trans. J. G. Davies. Atlanta: John
Knox, 1958.
Cunningham, William. “Christ’s Kingly Office.” Sermons From 1828 to 1860. Ed. J. J. Bonar.
First ed., 1872. Reprint by Still Waters Revival Books, Edmonton, 1991, 351-64. [With
Bannerman and Buchanan, Cunningham was a leading figure in mid-nineteenth century Scotland,
and was principal of New College in Edinburgh. In this sermon, Cunningham demonstrates that
Christ functions as king when the church follows his rule exclusively.]
--------. Discussions on Church Principles. First ed., 1863. Reprint by Still Waters Revival
Books, Edmonton, 1991. [This volume discusses the nature and limits of church-power, esp. in
the context of the struggle with Anglicanism and Erastianism].
Dabney, Robert Lewis. “What is a Call to the Ministry?”: 26-46, “Lay Preaching”: 76-95, “The
Public Preaching of Women” : 96-118, “Theories of the Eldership” : 119-57, “The
Revised Book of Discipline”: 312-55 and 356-92, “What is Christian Union?”: 430-446,
“Broad Churchism”: 447-63, “Fraternal Correspondence” : 464-71, “Fraternal Relations”:
472-502 in Discussions of Robert Lewis Dabney, vol. 2. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth
Trust, 1982. [In these various essays, RLD discussed a variety of ecclesiastical issues that
continue to be of great practical significance in our day. His “Theories of the Eldership,” taken
with Thornwell’s “The Ruling Elder a Presbyter,” contributed to the development of a “two-office”
view].
--------. “The Standard of Ordination,” in Discussions of Robert Lewis Dabney, vol. 3. Carlisle,
PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1982: 47-64.
7
Robert L. Dabney, “Simplicity of Pulpit Style,” in Discussions, vol. 3., Harrisonburg, VA:
Sprinkle Publications, pp. 80-90. [Note: This is not found in vol. 3 of the Banner of
Truth edition. The BOT edition includes selections of the original volumes 3 and 4 in its
volume 3]. [This fine essay discusses the propriety of simplicity in the pulpit, not merely or
primarily on pragmatic grounds, but on the ground of the nature of what preaching is. It is vintage
Dabney, and vintage Protestantism.]
--------. “An Exposition of 1 Corinthians iii.10-15,” in Discussions of Robert Lewis Dabney, vol.
1. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1982, pp. 551-74. [This sermon on “wood, hay,
stubble,” would revolutionize contemporary preaching if people read it and believed it. Dabney
here argues that a minister’s effectiveness cannot be measured in this life, but only upon the
return of Christ, when his hearers survive the final judgment. Therefore, the goal of preaching is
to prepare the hearers for such.]
--------. The Westminster Confession and Creeds. Dallas: Presbyterian Heritage Publications,
1983.
--------. “The System of Alexander Campbell: An Examination of Its Leading Points,” in
Discussions of Robert Lewis Dabney, vol. 1. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1982,
pp. 314-49. [This apparently obscure essay is actually a critique of anti-creedalism; and a
defense of the propriety of confessing the faith creedally.]
--------.Sacred Rhetoric. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1979 (1870). [This, Dabney’s
complete work on preaching, taken from his lectures at Union Seminary in Va., is a very
comprehensive discussion of preaching. The perspective of the author is revealed in the preface:
“If this work has any peculiarities to which value may be attached, they are these: that the
necessity of eminent Christian character is urged throughout as the foundation of the sacred
orator’s power, and that a theory of preaching is asserted, with all the force which I could
command, that honours God’s inspired word and limits the preacher most strictly to its exclusive
use as the sword of the Spirit. If my readers rise from the perusal with these two convictions
enhanced in their souls--that it is grace which makes the preacher, and that nothing is preaching
which is not expository of the Scriptures--my work is not in vain.”]
--------. “Dr. Girardeau's ‘Instrumental Music in Public Worship,’ a Review.” Richmond, VA:
Whittet and Sheperson, 1889. [This little pamphlet, virtually impossible to obtain, is actually
Dabney's own articulation of the regulative principle of worship.]
Davies, Horton. Worship and Theology in England, 5 vols. Princeton: Princeton University,
1961-1975. [Davies has been conceded to be without peer in his knowledge of worship in the
British isles, both Anglican and nonconforming].
--------. The Worship of the English Puritans. Glasgow: Dacre Press, 1948. [Davies has finally
been reprinted. Soli Deo Gloria has reprinted it in 1997, making this important study available for
the first time in decades].
Dennison, Charles, and Richard Gamble, eds. Pressing Toward the Mark. Corapolis, PA: The
Committee for the Historian of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 1986. BX8999 .O65
P73. [This is a collection of essays commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of the OPC. Included
are a number of articles of both theological, ecclesiological, and historical interest, not the least of
which is Professor Gaffin’s argument for sabbath-observance from Hebrews 4.]
8
Flavel, John. “The Character of a Complete Evangelical Pastor Drawn by Christ,” Works, vol.
vi. Edinburgh, Banner of Truth Trust, 1982, pp.564-85. This essay discusses the ministry
in light of our Lord’s discussion of “faithful and prudent” servants, focusing on the two-fold
requirements of faithfulness to the Lord and His revelation, and prudence in applying the Word
skilfully to the flock. There is much wisdom in this brief essay, and it would not hurt all the officers
in the church, deacons and elders as well, to read it.
Gaffin, Richard B., Jr. “A Sabbath Rest Still Awaits the People of God,” in Dennison, Charles,
and Richard Gamble, eds. Pressing Toward the Mark. Corapolis, PA: The Committee
for the Historian of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 1986, pp. 33-52. [Gaffin interacts
critically with the arguments presented in From Sabbath to Lord’s Day, especially those of Andrew
Lincoln, by arguing that there is a relation between protology and eschatology such that human
existence itself is sabbatical, and human history is moving towards its eschatological,
consummation-sabbath. He argues, therefore, against the continental view that there is no
Christian sabbath, but on entirely different grounds than commonly found among Puritan
defenders of the same position.]
Gillespie, George. Aaron’s Rod Blossoming. 1646. Reprint, Sprinkle Publications,
Harrisonburg, VA, 1985. [One of the Scottish representatives to the Westminster Assembly,
Gillespie was one of the most able men of his day. In this treatise, he defends the view of the
separate government of church from the state.]
--------. The Works of George Gillespie. Original collection, 1846. Reprint, Still Waters Revival
Books: Edmonton, Canada, 1991. [These two volumes contain an enormous amount of
Gillespie’s considerable writings. HIs famous 1637 deliverance, “A Dispute Against the English
Popish Ceremonies Obtruded on the Church of Scotland,” remains a classic statement regarding
the sole prerogative of Jesus Christ to govern his church, against any encroachments by Pope or
State. As such, it is also a classic statement of the Protestant understanding of the liberty of the
Christian conscience. Also included is the 1644 treatise, “One Hundred and Eleven Propositions
Concerning the Ministry and Government of the Church,” which, as its title suggests, covers a
comprehensive range of ecclesiastical matters. The posthumously-published “A Treatise of
Miscellany Questions” (1649) contains 22 chapters, many of which are ecclesiastical: 4 chapters
on the divine institution, election, and installation of pastors; three on whether prophesy continues;
four on the sacraments; several on heresies and how to avoid them; a fascinating argument on
the moral obligation of obeying the “due and necessary consequences” of scriptural revelation,
etc.]
Garrison, P. J. Presbyterian Polity and Procedures. Richmond: John Knox, 1953. [A
commentary on the PCUS Book of Church Order, reflecting GA actions and deliverances up to
1952. Similar in format to J. Aspinwall Hodge and John D. Leslie.]
Girardeau, John L. Instrumental Music in the Public Worship of the Church. Richmond, VA:
Whittet and Sheperson, 1888 (rpt. Havertown, PA: New Covenant Publication Society,
1983). [Girardeau was a junior colleague of Thornwell at Colombia, and, in this treatise, argued
against the propriety of instrumental music in public worship.]
Gordon, T. David. “Some Answers about the Regulative Principle.” Westminster Theological
Journal 55 (Fall, 1993): 321-29. [A reply to an article in the previous Journal, written by John
M. Frame, “Some Questions about the Regulative Principle.]
9
--------. “‘Equipping’ Ministry in Ephesians 4?” Journal for the Evangelical Theological Society
37, no. 1 (March 1994): 69-78. [An attempt at refuting the common mistranslation of
Ephesians 4: “equip the saints to work the ministry…”]
--------. “The Church’s Power: Its Relation to Subscription,” in The Practice of Confessional
Subscription, ed. David W. Hall (University Press of America, 1994): 293-300.
Hagemann, Howard G. Pulpit and Table: Some Chapters in the History of Worship in the
Reformed Churches. Richmond: John Knox, 1962.
*Hall, David W. and Hall, Joseph H., editors. Paradigms in Polity. Classic Readings in
Reformed and Prebyterian Church Government. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1994. [As
the title implies, this is a collection of selections from primary sources, many long out-of-print,
dealing with ecclesiology. It includes selections from the ancient church, from the continental
Reformed churches, from the British isles, and from the United States.]
*Hall, David W., ed. The Practice of Confessional Subscription. University Press of America,
1995. [This is collection of nineteen articles related to the issue of subscription to church
confessions. Some of the articles are re-prints of earlier publications (e.g., of R. L. Dabney,
Charles Hodge, John Murray), though the majority are contemporary. Some of the articles are
historical. Others are theological, hermeneutical, and even practical!]
Hetherington, William M. History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines. 1843; rpt.,
Edmonton: Stillwaters Revival Books, 1992.
*Hodge, Charles. The Constitutional History of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of
America. Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1851; rpt. American
Presbyterian Press, 1983. [Interesting in its own right as an historical work, this study is
especially helpful in ascertaining the intentions of early American Presbyterianism. It is frequently
consulted in discussions of the American Presbyterian understanding of confessional
subscription.]
--------. Discussions in Church Polity, From the Contributions to the “Princeton Review”. New
York: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1878. Selected and arranged by Wm. Durant, with a
Preface by A. A. Hodge. [In these over-500 pages are contained a number of Hodge’s various
discussions on matters related to the church in the Review. Although understandably difficult to
attain, it is a valuable work, that should be purchased if available, since it is easier to acquire it
than it is to acquire 40 years of the PTR.]
*Hodge, J. Aspinwall. What is Presbyterian Law as Defined by the Church Courts?
Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1882. [Regrettably difficult to obtain, this
book consists of a number of questions about the practical implications of the Book of Church
Order, answered by reference to acts of the General Assembly. Written by Charles Hodge’s
nephew, it is structured around the PCUSA Constitution of 1821.]
Jay, Eric G. The Church: Its Changing Image Through Twenty Centuries. Atlanta: John Knox,
1980.
Johnson, Terry L., ed. Leading in Worship: A Sourcebook for Presbyterian Students and
Ministers Drawing Upon the Biblical and Historic Forms of the Reformed Tradition.
10
Oak Ridge, TN: The Covenant Foundation, 1996. [Recently compiled, this sourcebook
includes several excellent introductory essays, both historical and theological, followed by
examples from Reformed liturgical history of entire services, and parts thereof. For those who
desire to follow the historic Presbyterian middle-ground between unprepared or trivial worshipforms on the one hand, and imposed liturgies on the other, this is an extremely useful resource.
There is no excuse for a minister in the PCA not owning this work.]
Knight, George W. III. “A Response to Dr. William Barker's Article ‘Subscription to the
Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms.’” Presbuterion 10, no. 1-2
(Spring/Fall, 1984): 56-63.
--------. “Subscription to the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms.” Presbuterion
10, no. 1-2 (Spring/Fall, 1984): 20-55.
--------. “Two Offices (Elders/Bishops and Deacons) and Two Orders of Elders
(Preaching/Teaching Elders and Ruling Elders): A New Testament Study,” Presbyterion
XI (1985), pp. 1-12. [This is probably the most able attempt at justifying the two-office position
of the PCA. The response to it, by Robert Rayburn, taken with this article, provide a good
introduction to the current discussion. ]
Kuiper, R. B. The Glorious Body of Christ. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust. BV 600
.K957. [Not really a full-blown ecclesiology, this volume is nevertheless useful especially in
demonstrating the responsibility of the church to bear witness to Truth.]
Leith, John H. An Introduction to the Reformed Tradition. Atlanta: John Knox, 1977. [While
Leith’s perspective on the Reformed tradition is somewhat neo-orthodox, his understanding of the
tradition is nonetheless accurate, and his appreciation is sincere.]
*Leslie, J. D. Presbyterian Law and Procedure in the Presbyterian Church in the United States.
Richmond, VA: Presbyterian Committee of Publication, 1930. [This volume, written by a
Stated Clerk of the PCUS General Assembly, contains 951 topics regarding the law of the PCUS.
Where relevant, references are made to the Westminster Standards, the Book of Church Order,
and acts of General Assembly. In overall content, this is very similar to J. A. Hodge’s volume.]
MacPherson, Ian. The Burden of the Lord. [This volume, by an English Methodist, is hard to find, but
it is very good in many ways. Especially his chapter on the preacher himself, and his devotion to
the work (suggesting quite seriously that every truly faithful sermon will shorten the minister’s life
by several days to a week) is extremely challenging and edifying.]
MacPherson, John. The Doctrine of the Church in Scottish Theology. Ed. C. G. M’Crie.
Edinburgh: NacNiven & Wallace, 1903. BV 600 M24d.
Maddex, Jack P. “From Theocracy to Spirituality: The Southern Presbyterian Reversal on
Church and State.” Journal of Presbyterian History 54, no. 4, 1976.
[This controversial, and highly influential, essay alleges that the distinctive doctrine of the
spirituality of the church was developed during Reconstruction, not in the antebellum period, and
as a result of the influence of border-state Presbyterians such as Stuart Robinson. Part of
Maddex’s evidence is not germane to his thesis: e.g., statements by Presbyterians about the
relation of religion and public life. In point of fact, the doctrine of the spirituality of the church
says nothing about, much less denies, a role of the Christian citizen in the affairs of state
(Southern Presbyterians were not anabaptistic on this point). Further, Maddex’s evidence that
11
individuals (or even courts) that acted inconsistently with the doctrine does not prove that the
doctrine was not the stated opinion of the church; it merely proves that, under the right
circumstances, people are capable of acting inconsistently with their stated principles (a
commonplace that hardly needs proof). It should have been evident to Maddex, from the work
of Thornwell (who died in 1862, prior to Reconstruction) and Thomas Peck, that the doctrine of
the church’s spirituality was not developed during Reconstruction. Indeed, the changing of the
chapter on the civil magistrate in the Westminster Standards by the first American Presbyterian
Assembly in 1789, alone should have been evidence to confirm the thesis that this doctrine was
a genuine dimension of American Presbyterian commitment prior to the abolitionist movement.
Cf. the refutation of Maddex in Preston D. Graham, Jr., “True Presbyterion: The Peculiar
Dilemna of a Border State Newspaper”, n.p., 1992.]
Marcel, Pierre Charles. The Relevance of Preaching. Tr. R. R. McGregor. Grand Rapids:
Baker, 1977 (1963). [This little volume will restore one’s confidence in preaching as God’s
ordinance, chosen not because people think it is a good or effective means, but because God has
ordained it to be so. It is an implicit challenge to the assumption so common today, that the
medium is value-neutral, while the message is alone value-laden. Marcel ably demonstrates that
God has ordained “the foolishness of preaching” as the means (the medium) which He will bless.
To be biblical, then, is not only to proclaim God’s revealed message; but to do so in God’s
revealed manner.]
Martin, R. P. Worship in the Early Church. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans,1964. [This work is written
by a NT scholar, and the work is both historical and exegetical.]
--------. The Worship of God. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1982.
Maxwell, Jack Martin. Worship and Reformed Theology. Pittsburgh: Pickwick,1976.
Maxwell, William D. Concerning Worship. London: Oxford, 1948.
--------. An Outline of Christian Worship. London: Oxford, 1949.
--------. A History of Worship in the Church of Scotland. London: Oxford, 1955.
--------. Eglise de Geneve. Westminster: Faith Press, 1965.
*Melton, Julius. Presbyterian Worship in America: Changing Patterns since 1787. Richmond:
John Knox, 1967. [There is no other work like this, which contains a sweep of American
Presbyterian history on the issues of worship. While the author is decidedly NS in perspective, he
is very fair and comprehensive in his presentation, and even writes gracefully. You are not likely
to find a copy in a used-book store, but if you do, grab it.]
*Miller, Samuel. An Essay, on the warrant, Nature and Duties of the Office of the Ruling Elder,
in the Presbyterian Church. Dallas, TX: Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1987.
[Miller was the second professor at the seminary at Princeton, arriving in 1813, a year after
Archibald Alexander. He wrote many articles, pamphlets, and books on matters of ecclesiology.]
--------. “The Sermon, delivered at the Inauguration of the Rev. Archibald Alexander, D. D. as
Professor of Didactic and Polemic Theology in the Theological Seminary of the
Presbyterian Church, in United States of America.” New York: Whitting and Watson,
1812. Reprinted as The Duty of the Church to take Measures for Providing an Able and
12
Faithful Ministry. Edited with an introductory essay by Kevin Reed. Dallas, TX:
Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1984.
--------. The Utility and Importance of Creeds and Confessions: Addressed Particularly to
Candidates for the Ministry. Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1839.
Reprinted under the title Miller on Creeds. Greenville, SC: A. Press, 1987.
--------. Presbyterianism the Truly Primitive and Apostolical Constitution of the Church of
Christ, with Infant Baptism Scriptural and Reasonable: and Baptism by Sprinkling or
Affusion the most suitable and edifying mode. Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of
Publication, 1835.
--------. Thoughts on Public Prayer. Harrisonburg, VA: Sprinkle Publications, 1985 (1849).
[This grew out of Miller’s lectures on the same topic at Princeton Seminary from 1813 to the time
of its writing, and, to my knowledge, has no competitors or rivals. It is a serious, thorough, and
practical guide for those who with the apostles “devote themselves to the ministry of the Word and
prayer.” It is often out of print, but can sometimes be located through Great Christian Books or
Cumberland Valley Bible Distributors. Every individual who participates in the public prayers of
the church should read this book several times.]
Mitchell, Alexander F. The Westminster Assembly: Its History and Standards. Philadelphia:
Presbyterian Board of Publications, 1884. Rpt. Edmonton: Stillwaters Revival Books,
1993.
Moore, William E. The Presbyterian Digest of 1886. A Compend of the Acts and Deliverances
of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America.
Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board, 1886. [Moore’s first “digest” had been published in 1873.
W. A. Alexander published one in 1898, and there are several others. Each of these is valuable,
in permitting a student of Presbyterianism access to General Assembly actions on a variety of
subjects. The limitation is that none are exhaustive, and some are inexplicably selective
(sometimes including related acts of, say 1835 and 1872, but omitting an action on the same topic
in 1845). Nevertheless, as a first step of research, a digest is quicker than reading through the
indeces to the minutes of each Presbyterian body!]
*Murray, Iain H., editor. The Reformation of the Church. A Collection of Reformed and Puritan
Documents on Church Issues. Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1987. [A collection
of primary sources, most out of print, on matters related to ecclesiology].
--------. “Ruling Elders--A Sketch of a Controversy,” Banner of Truth 235 (1983), pp. 1-9. [The
name of the article is accurate; here is a sketch of the controversy over whether the “ruling elders”
of Presbyterianism are the presbuvteroi of scripture. The article includes summaries of all
the significant individuals and arguments in the debate].
--------. “The Problem of the ‘Eldership’ and its Wider Implications,” Banner of Truth 395/396
(1996), pp. 36-56. [Murray expresses considerable doubt, in this article, as to whether it will
ever be possible to decide with certainty what the NT “elder” actually was, and whether any form
of ecclesiastical government will be able to establish this point jure divino.]
Murray, John. “The Nature and Unity of the Church,” “The Government of the Church,” “The
Form of Government,” “Arguments Against Term Eldership,” “Office in the Church,”
13
“The Sacraments,” “Baptism,” “The Lord’s Supper,” and “Restricted Communion,” in
The Collected Writings of John Murray. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1977. vol.
2: section VI: 321-386. BX 8915 .M9. [These are the more significant ecclesiastical writings
of John Murray.]
--------. Christian Baptism. Philadelphia: Presbyterian & Reformed, 1974.
Meyer, F. B. Expository Preaching: Plans and Methods. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1912.
[“The aim of this book is not only to demonstrate the value of expository preaching, but to show
how” (From the Introduction). Meyer’s brief (141 pp.) book consists of six chapters. One defines
clearly what the expository method is, four chapters are, in effect, pleas for preaching by this
method, and one is devoted to the practice itself. If this has not been reprinted since 1912, it
ought to have been.]
*Nichols, James Hastings. Corporate Worship in the Reformed Tradition. Philadelphia:
Westminster, 1968. [This is a gem, in presenting an overview of early continental Protestant
worship, emphasizing, as the title suggests, the corporate character of such worship. Sadly, this
has never been reprinted, and is difficult to find.]
Old, Hughes Oliphant. Worship: Guides to the Reformed Tradition. Atlanta: John Knox, 1984.
--------. Leading in Prayer: A Workbook for Worship. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1995. [This is
written in the tradition of Samuel Miller’s Thoughts on Public Prayer, and, more recently, Terry
Johnson’s Leading in Worship. It consists of very helpful thoughts on the theology and nature of
worship and prayer, and then consists of examples of forms that could be employed in corporate
worship].
Owen, John. “A Brief Instruction in the Worship of God and Discipline of the Churches of the
New Testament,” Works of John Owen, vol. 15: 447-530. Ed. William H. Goold.
Edinburgh: T & T Clark, 1862. [No one familiar with Owen is prepared to take him at facevalue when he refers to any of his essays as “brief;” however, this one is full of practical
information, and is, indeed, catechetically-arranged. In several of the 53 questions, Owen’s
congregationalism manifests itself, but this in no way diminishes the overall value of the work.]
--------. “A Discourse Concerning Liturgies and Their Imposition,” Works of John Owen, vol.
15: 3-57. Ed. William H. Goold. Edinburgh: T & T Clark, 1862. [This is only apparently
a discussion of liturgies; it is much more a discussion of their imposition. As such, it is a
discourse on the nature and limits of the church’s power, and a very able one.]
--------. “The Word of God the Sole Rule of Worship,” Works of John Owen, vol. 13. Ed.
William H. Goold. Edinburgh: T & T Clark, 1862, pp. 462-506. [This little essay is
probably the most concise expression of Owen's understanding of the regulative principle of
worship.]
*Peck, Thomas E. Notes on Ecclesiology. Richmond, VA: Presbyterian Committee on
Publications, 1892. Rpt.: Greenville Theological Seminary Press, 1995. BV 600 .P 33n.
[Dabney’s junior colleague and successor at Union Theological Seminary in Virginia, Peck
instructed for many years in ecclesiology. A true and consistent advocate of Thornwellian
principles. This is a fine, brief exposition of Presbyterian ecclesiology in the Thornwellian tradition.
The chapter on the diaconate is alone worth the publication’s existence, and all of it is fine and
terse.]
14
--------. “Liturgies, Instrumental Music, and Architecture,” pp. 66-77; “General Principles
Touching the Worship of God,” pp. 78-89; “The Worship of the Church,” pp. 90-98.
Miscellanies of Rev. Thomas E. Peck, vol. 1, edited by Thomas Cary Johnson.
Richmond, VA: The Presbyterian Committee on Publication, 1895. [These essays all
reflect Peck’s decided commitment to the regulative principle of worship, and its application to
many of the questions of Peck’s day.]
--------. “The Call to the Ministry of the Word,” pp. 97-106; “The Church and State,” pp. 266289; “The General Assembly of 1856,” pp. 290-330; “The Powers of our Several Church
Courts,” pp. 331-360, in Miscellanies of Rev. Thomas E. Peck, vol. 2, edited by Thomas
Cary Johnson. Richmond, VA: The Presbyterian Committee on Publication, 1896. [This
last essay describes with great clarity the proper distinctions of the higher and lower courts, and
particularly, the impropriety of requiring (de facto) the higher courts to do the business of the lower
courts.]
Pipa, Joseph A. The Lord’s Day. Christian Focus Publications, 1997. [A genuinely unique volume
on the Christian Sabbath, promoting, essentially, the Puritan view. Its uniqueness resides in two
dimensions. First, the theological basis for sabbath-observance employs not only the traditional
Puritan arguments for the moral nature of the decalogue, but, additionally, the protologicaleschatological arguments characteristic of the approach of Geerhardus Vos, Richard B. Gaffin,
Jr., and Meredith Kline. Second, the divine purposes in giving this ordinance to the rce are
emphasized throughout, and tend to have a salutary controlling influence on the practical
recommendations. Pipa enables the reader to appreciate, better than most, God’s grace in
providing a life-to-come of sabbath-rest in Christ, and an earthly anticipation thereof.]
*Ramsay, F. P. An Exposition of the Form of Government and the Rules of Discipline of the
Presbyterian Church in the United States. Richmond: The Presbyterian Committee of
Publication, 1898. [Similar to J. Aspinwall Hodge, John D. Leslie, and P. J. Garrison, this is an
exposition of the PCUS book of order in terms of GA deliverances].
Rayburn, Robert S. “Three Offices: Minister, Elder, Deacon,” Presbyterion xii, no. 2 (Fall,
1986), pp. 105-114. [This is a response to George Knight’s article on two offices. The two
articles, taken together, are perhaps the quickest way to become familiar with the present debate
on two or three offices. See also the forthcoming (early 1990’s) collection of essays edited by
Mark R. Brown, many of which are devoted to defending the historic belief in the ministry of the
Word as a separate office.]
Reed, Kevin. Biblical Church Government. An Introduction to Presbyterian Polity. Dallas, TX:
Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1988.
Robinson, Stuart. The Church of God as an Essential Element of the gospel, and the Idea,
Structure, and Functions Thereof. Philadelphia: Joseph M. Wilson, 1858. [Robinson
taught at the Presbyterian seminary in Danville, KY, and pastored several churches in West
Virginia, Maryland, and Kentucky. He lived as an exile in Canada from 1862 until the conclusion
of the war between the states, because of his articles, especially in the True Presbyterian, which
argued the separation of church and state. While the overall thesis in this book is profound,
especially so in our day, the entire argument proceeds from Robinson's understanding of Christ
as King (a doctrine later referred to as the “spirituality of the church”), revealing his indebtedness
to the Scottish Presbyterians such as Cunningham, and, before him, Knox.]
15
--------. Discourses of Redemption, 3rd edition. Richmond: Presbyterian Committee of
Publication, 1866. [An interesting biblical theology in its own right, there are several
appendices of significance to ecclesiological matters, esp. “The Ordinances of Public Worship as
Set Forth in Scripture; Their Relation to the Idea of the Church,” pp. 471-74; and “The Relation of
the Temporal and the Spiritual Powers Historically Considered. The Scoto-American Theory,” pp.
474-88. This latter is especially significant as rebuttal to E.T. Thompson’s (and his followers)
reconstructionist dogma that the Southern Presbyterian view of the spirituality of the church was a
distinctly Southern novelty designed to defend the South in the War Between the States. As
Robinson demonstrates, the idea is in fact Scottish in origin, and was simply reiterated by the
American Presbyterians.]
Rutherfurd, Samuel. The Due right of Presbyteries, or a Peaceable Plea for the Government of
the Church of Scotland. London: Whittaker and Crook, 1644. [It goes without saying that
this book is rare, having never been reprinted (n.b., my copy is currently in the hands of Stillwaters
Revival Books, as of January, 1993, and may be reprinted by the time you read this). It is,
nonetheless, virtually the granddaddy of all defenses of Presbyterian government. While the
argument is labyrinthine at points, and the grammar and vocabulary are clearly pre-Johnson, it
would still be worthwhile to have this volume reprinted.]
Ryle, J.C. “Simplicity in Preaching,” in The Upper Room: Being a few truths for the times.
Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1983 (1888): 35-55. [Not unlike Dabney’s lecture on
the same topic, this fine essay by Bishop Ryle, like Dabney’s, is actually a treatise on what
preaching is, and therefore, on why it should be simple.]
*Smith, Frank J. and David C. Lachman. Worship in the Presence of God. Greenville, SC:
Greenville Seminary Press, 1992. [This is a collection of nineteen essays, plus an important
appendix, covering many topics related to Presbyterian worship. The editors and contributors are
firmly convinced of the guiding principles of Presbyterian worship, and their contributions touch
upon both theoretical and practical matters.]
Smith, J. Henry, ed. Memorial Volume of the Westminster Assembly. Richmond: Presbyterian
Committee of Publication, 1897. [This volume contains eleven addresses delivered before the
1897 GA in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Assembly. The addresses are
bibliographic and historical, theological, etc. Several are very fine, including Dabney’s on the
doctrinal content of the standards, Givens Strickler’s on the catechisms (which includes both a
history of catechising in the church and a defense of the practice), Eugene Daniel’s on the polity
and worship of the standards].
Smith, Morton H. The Case for Full Subscription to the Westminster Standards in the
Presbyterian Church in America. Greenville, SC: GPTS Press, 1992. [This consists of
four essays, three by Dr. Smith arguing for full subscription on theological and historical grounds,
and one, an historical essay by John Murray on creedal subscription in the American Presbyterian
Church.]
*Smyth, Thomas. An Ecclesiastical Catechism of the Presbyterian Church, Third edition. New
York: 1843. [Recommended by R. J. Breckinridge, Addison Alexander, Samuel Miller, and
Charles Hodge, this outstanding little work is arranged catechetically, with scripture proofs. This
is effectively the “Clliff Notes” to Bannerman, since it consists of only 84 pages, but touches upon
virtually everything. Nevin said of Smyth: “As a churchman, he was at once intensely
denominational and intensely unsectarian.” As of 1993, it is available in photoreproduction from
the Rev. Mark Brown, Classic Presbyterian Government Resources, 807 Peachtree Lane,
Duncansville, PA 16635.]
16
Spring, Gardiner. The Power of the Pulpit. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1986 (1848).
[Fairly recently reprinted for the first time, this is a fine volume by an eminent minister, who was
pastor of the Brick Church in New York City for 62 years, from 1810-1872. Spring was born in
Newburyport, MA, and, after preparing for law, attended Andover Seminary, which his father had
assisted in founding. The unfortunate author of the now-famous “Spring Resolutions,” which
divided the Presbyterian Church in 1862 into northern and southern branches, Spring deserves to
be remembered for more than this one mistake. He was an eminently devout and faithful
minister. His Essays on the Distinguishing Traits of Christian Character (1813) and his The
Attraction of the Cross (1846) were widely-read and highly-regarded. This work covers the same
comprehensive ground as do the volumes by Alexander and Dabney, the first five chapters
covering the power of the pulpit alone. One simply cannot read those chapters and conclude that
any other medium is a better vehicle for the message of the gospel.]
Spurgeon, Charles Haddon. “Our Public Prayer,” in Lectures to My Students. Grand Rapids:
Baker, 1977, pp. 53-71. [While obviously not as full as Miller’s Thoughts on Public Prayer,
page-for-page this is an excellent essay.]
--------. A Well-rounded Ministry. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust. [Each of these volumes
contains many interesting insights into ministerial character and preparation, by one of the bestknown Baptist ministers of the previous century. While we cannot condone his defense of
“spiritualizing” the text, nor his concession that expository preaching is beyond the capacity of the
average preacher (respectfully submitting that such pastors are in fact below average), we are
nevertheless indebted to his many wise comments about the piety and preparation required of
faithful ministers of the Word.]
Stevenson, Robert M. Patterns of Protestant Church Music. Durham, NC: Duke University
Press, 1953. [A very brief survey of several significant historical moments in Protestant worship,
especially as regards music. Contains some fine quotes from Calvin, and includes chapters on
Luther, Bach, Handel, both Wesleys, Watts, Sankey, et. al.]
*Sundry Ministers of Christ within the City of London. Jus Divinum Regiminis Ecclesiastici, or
The Divine Right of Church-Government. Ed. David W. Hall. Dallas: Naphtali Press,
1995. [A new edition of a 1646 original that was reprinted in 1647, 1654, and 1799; and printed
in America in 1844. While technically an anonymous work, it is widely believed to have been
written by commissioners to the Westminster Assembly, who had been addressed by Parliament
on 30 April, 1646, with “Nine Queries.” No official reply to Parliament was ever produced by the
Assembly, yet it is widely believed that this work constitutes the reply (William Hetherington, A. H.
Drysdale, Thomas M’Crie, Alexander Mitchell, C. A. Briggs, William Beveridge, and John R. De
Witt all attribute the Jus Divinum to members of the Assembly). The Jus Divinum is especially
significant for three distinct reasons. First, its inherent worth commends it. It is thorough, patient,
clear, and biblical. Second, its influence on subsequent discussions of ecclesiology has been
immense. Third, it is the one volume that retains the full, “uncensored” view of the Assembly,
complete with rationale. We are especially fortunate to have this volume reprinted again in our
generation.]
Thompson, Bard. Liturgies of the Western Church. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1961/1985. [This
volume consists of a collection of various liturgies, with introductions and explanations. A very
good resource for studying liturgies.]
*Thornwell, James Henley. The Collected Writings of James Henley Thornwell. vol. 4:
Ecclesiastical. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1974. BX 8915 .T5. [Thornwell is
widely regarded as the propagator of the (allegedly) distinctively Southern view of the church, and
is widely (and erroneously) perceived as the originator of the Southern view of the "spirituality of
the church." In fact, Thornwell was merely one of the more articulate and energetic defenders of
17
the Scottish principles in the U.S., during a time when others were abandoning the same
principles.]
Toxel, A. Craig. “Charles Hodge on Church Boards: A Case Study in Ecclesiology. WTJ 58
(1996): 183-207. [Troxel argues that Hodge’s ecclesiology was not thoroughly or consistently
Presbyterian, especially in Hodge’s tendency to think first of the church as invisible rather than
visible.]
Warfield, Benjamin B. “True Church Unity: What It Is.” in Selected Shorter Writings of
Benjamin B. Warfield, ed. John E. Meeter. Phillipsburg, N.J.: Presbyterian & Reformed,
1970: 299-324. [Warfield here argues at some length that the church is one, spiritually; and that
the unity of the church does not consist in its being under one earthly head, or under a common
ecclesiastical government, or in its following a common liturgy or even creed.]
--------. “Christian Baptism,” in Selected Shorter Writings of Benjamin B. Warfield, ed. John E.
Meeter. Phillipsburg, N.J.: Presbyterian & Reformed, 1970: 325-31.
--------. “The Fundamental Significance of the Lord’s Supper,” in Selected Shorter Writings of
Benjamin B. Warfield, ed. John E. Meeter. Phillipsburg, N.J.: Presbyterian & Reformed,
1970: 332-38.
*Witherow, Thomas. The Apostolic Church: Which is it? 1856, rpt. Glasgow: Free Presbyterian
Publications, 1990. [This little pamphlet is wonderful for new-members classes or officer
training. It is one of the few brief arguments for Presbyterian government. Although published in
Glasgow, it is ordinarily available from the PCA Bookstore in Atlanta.]
#--------. “The Form of the Christian Temple.”
18