HE GAVE ...TEACHERS
Who REALLY is the 'Faithful and Discreet Slave'?
Teachers Tried, True & Honoured By The
Whole Body of Christ
Second Edition By David Aspinall
A Testimony about the Need for Teachers:
BEFORE the first serious cracks began to show in my faith in the Watchtower,
God had already set me up for a soft fall. I was reading books I shouldn't
have. Since all Jehovah's Witnesses officially believe that the only good
food comes from the organization's table, I should never have started collecting
non-JW books. But my years as a pioneer and trouble shooter (someone publishers
take along on difficult calls) had taught me that the weapons the Watchtower
supplies were inadequate. Books like Is the Bible the Word of God? and
Aid to Bible Understanding, while impressive to theuneducated JW and Joe
Public, didn't make much of a dent in the armour of half-educated unbelievers.
Rather than dismiss such 'difficult' calls as goats,
an attitude definitely encouraged by elders when official Watchtower tools
failed, I made the theocratically fatal error of giving the non-Witness
the benefit of doubt. I went looking for more powerful weapons. My search
for better answers to defend the Watchtower would eventually lead out of
'the organization'. But that was not at all apparent at the time. For as
I combed secondhand bookstores in downtown Toronto for books on unbelief's
favourite targets -- the Genesis creation story, the flood, 'contradictions'
in the Bible etc. -- I quickly found out there was a wealth of good material
out there, and much of it had been published decades before 'God's organization'
got around to dealing with the same issues. I guess I shouldn't have been
too surprised, for one of the first tasks I set myself when the complete
Aid book came out in 1971 (in the first flush of post-baptism zeal) was
to index the references to other sources used by the Watchtower in compiling
it. I, like all the Witnesses I knew, was sure the Aid to Bible Understanding
was the untimate in Bible tools. Now I was using its references to build
a library of books in the field of apologetics, the science of defending
the Christian faith. By 1979, when I was appointed an elder, my library
already contained 100s of works in this area. John Burns, my fellow elder
in University (Toronto) congregation and now a Watchtower lawyer, remarked
one day how great an advantage these books would be to me as a pioneer
and a Ministry School Overseer. John was right -- in a way neither of us
could have foreseen!
One thing that became apparent fairly early in my book collecting: most
of the best books I found defending the Bible were written by clergymen!
This became especially important later on, when I had to look more closely
at the original books of C.T Russell and Joseph Rutherford. Since the Watchtower
no longer published any of these books by its founders, they made quite
the trophy on my bookshelves, never failing to impress fellow Witnesses
who visited. Of course, neither they nor I would likely ever read them
anyway -- why read 'old light' when we had so much fine literature with
up-to-date 'spiritual food'? Nevertheless, though my faith in the organization
was as yet
unshaken, it did bother me a bit that I couldn't get much help from these
older Watchtower books in defending the Watchtower beliefs, or the Bible.
What little time I did spend skimming them, reading a page or two here
and there, confirmed that the newer literature was far more useful for
preaching the 'good news'. The older books, especially Russell's, seemed
to be full of interpretations of Revelation and other prophecies we didn't
interpret the same way anymore. This bothered me a little, but I had much
more important things to do than dwell on the organization's past!
While these potential faith-undermining explosives sat on my shelves
unread for years, God was using a slower but steady process to loosen my
ties to the Watchtower. Many of these old books I was reading --
some even older than Russell's -- were proving very useful to my ministry,
especially for Bible studies who asked tough questions. Fellow Witnesses
would sometimes asked me where I got some of the facts and refutations
I used with calls we shared. But by now (1984) I'd decided most Witnesses
were better off not knowing. But even those who knew what was in my library
never warned me that this extra reading might be 'dangerous', though undoubtedly
it would have occurred to them. After all, 'Mother' still provided all
that anyone could ever need. But fellow JW's still came to me, not
the other loyal elders, for the tough calls. This contradiction bothered
me too.
A cushion to land on
Then, in summer of 1984, the first major fissures appeared in the Watchtower's
foundation. For the first time someone forced me to take those old Russell
books off the shelves and look more closely at them. Many of those who
read this will know the rest of the story. Anyone who finally reads those
books knows before long why they're no longer printed, or printable. Now
my bookcollecting compromises had shattered my faith in the organization's
'integrity-keeping', even the honesty of its leaders. But my books had
also given me an advantage that most people who find out the truth about
the Watchtower don't enjoy -- I knew there was somewhere to go, someone
who could be trusted. Through books I had already met Gladstone, Queen
Victoria's Prime Minister, who (in his 80s) had written The Impregnable
Rock of Holy Scripture, standing on the Rock of divine revelation at the
very time Russell was pointing his followers to a pile of stone in Egypt.
I had also met George Rawlinson, who as Professor of Ancient History at
Oxford during the same era, dedicated most of his life to defending the
dependability of Scripture against withering assaults from rationalism
and Darwinism. While Rawlinson was underlining God's dependability as revealed
in history (The Historical Evidences of the Truth of the Scripture Records
and many other works), Charles Russell was undermining the same by speculation
passed of as 'food at the proper time' (The Divine Plan of the Ages,
The Time is at Hand). If Russell's intent was to demonstrate the trustworthiness
of God, instead of setting future dates for God to act he should
have been pointing to the fulfilment of God's prophecies in the past,
as did John Urquhart in The Wonders of Prophecy (about 1905).
By 1985 it was to such books, not the Watchtower's, that I went for
witnessing help, and, I now had to admit, for spiritual food as
well. Compared to these books, despite their age, even current Watchtower
publications seemed very stale indeed. So when I finally realized the hypocrisy
of my situation, that I was publically advocating the benefits of 'Jehovah's
pure table', but eating elsewhere myself, I finally jumped off 'Jehovah's
chariotlike organization'. But my books at least gave me a cushion to land
on, whereas for my wife Vivian the fall was devastating. I had learned
to trust at least dead Christians, but Vivian trusted nobody, not
even me. But gradually, as her paranoia faded and her wounds healed, Vivian
too began to read some of the books that had helped me, and we both started
feasting on the vast range of food available to Christians -- of which
Jehovah's Witnesses are completely unaware. We have both come to see that
what the Watchtower continues to call the 'table of demons' is far better
set, far more nutritious, and has infinitely less admixture of poison than
the Watchtower's meagre table. And even most of the good food the Society
publishes is
derived from Christendom's pantry. Our decade in the book business has
only increased the wonder Vivian and I have for the incredible riches that
are available to Christians. We have come to realize that the weakness
and compromise in the church are NOT the result of the lack of availability
of spiritual food, but rather the neglect of what God has provided. If
Christian testimony and zeal are feeble, it is because they, like JW's,
are feeding at the wrong table. God's table has always been well
stocked, but those invited were -- and are -- too busy elsewhere (Matt.22:1-
14).
Returning a favour
Most of the great teachers that the Lord has given the church are, sadly,
either
neglected or almost completely forgotten. Vivian and I would like return
the favour those teachers have done for us by passing their rich heritage
on to others. The following list makes no attempt to be exhaustive. We
apologize in advance if Christian teachers that have benefitted others
are not included. Nor are the works listed under each author complete lists.
Within the confines of our allotted format, we have tried to include as
many of the universally acknowledged, cherished and treasurable teachers
(at least, they used to be!) as we could. We have not read all of the recommended
works, but we have at the very least seen them referred to by other teachers
we have come to trust. The list draws on the richest works of all Christian
traditions -- Anglican,
Reformed, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Baptist, Methodist, Brethren -- and even
reveals that, despite the objections of some, God has used teachers in
the Holiness, Pentecostal and Roman Catholic communions. Indeed here we
have proof that 'the wind blows where it will, and you hear its voice,
but know not whence it comes or where it goes. Thus is everyone that is
born of the Spirit' (John 3:8).The list could have been many times longer,
but it couldn't have been much shorter.
We hope those who read this will, if they haven't already, sample the rich
and tasty menu that the Lord has set for the church's growth, strength,
stability and protection. Even the apostles knew their spiritual need.
Even after 3 years with Christ Himself they begged 'Lord, give us more
faith'. The feast has long been ready, and we are invited (Matt.22:1-14).
- David Aspinall
P.S. I have purposely omitted from the following list authors and teachers
who are still with us. Whether they too will be honoured among the 'faithful
and wise' servants of the Master only time can test. Despite the claims
of The Watchtower and other 'new light' religions, when the Lord puts bread
on the table it never becomes stale. In fact, I and millions of others
can testify that the old 'dishes' still have a special savour that is all
their own.ALEXANDER, Joseph Addison (1809-1860) Princeton Bible scholar
, wrote standard commentaries on Psalms, Isaiah, Acts, Mark and Matthew
(left incomplete)
ALFORD, Henry (1810-1871) Biblical scholar, dean of Canterbury at
death.
One of the NT revisers. 4-vol. edition of Greek New Testament brought best
of
German scholarship to the English reader. Many other works, including Genesis
(&
part Exodus) commentary
AMBROSE (340-397) Bishop of Milan, kept peace between Arians and
Catholics,
all the while adhering to Trinitarian orthodoxy. Influenced and baptized
Augustine
ANDERSON, Sir Robert (1841-1918) lay apologist (while head of criminal
investigation, Scotland Yard) wrote The Coming Prince; The Silence of God;
The
Gospel and His Ministries; The Bible and Modern Criticism
ANSELM (1033-1109) Italian-born, moved to England and became one
of the
most influential theologians of the middle ages. His Cur Deus Homo (Why
God
Man) became standard defense of incarnation and atonement. His philosophical
arguments for the existence of God, "the ontological argument",
became normative
ATHANASIUS (296-372) Bishop of Alexandria, became champion of
Trinitarianism against Arius from the time of the Council of Nicaea (325);
banished
4 times by the Arian emperors for his unflinching espousal of the Deity
of Christ.
Exiled 20 years
AUGUSTINE, Aurelius (354-430) Bishop of Hippo (North Africa), wrote
work
that defined Medieval orthodox understanding of the church, The City of
God. THE
most influential theologian in history of Christianity, revered by both
Catholics & Protestants. Primary influence at the Council of Carthage
(397), which fixed the Bible canon. Also wrote famous Confessions, and
many books still printed, including De Trinitate
BARNES, Albert (1798-1870) American Presbyterian commentator, educated
at Princeton. His Bible Notes are still in demand. Also wrote much against
slavery
BARON, David (1855-1926) Hebrew Christian. Wrote much on OT prophecy:
The Servant of Jehovah; Visions and Prophecies of Zechariah; Types, Psalms
&
Prophets; Israel in the Plan of God
BARTH, Karl (1886-1968) Swiss-born, the most influential theologian
of the
20th century. Wrote massive Church Dogmatics and many smaller works, including
a commentary on Romans and The Resurrection of the Dead (on 1 Corinthians)
BASIL the Great (329-379) Born in and bishop of Caesarea, first
of the 3
Cappodocians (with 2 Gregorys). Founded first Christian hospital (especially
for
lepers), gave wealth to poor, and wrote vigorous defenses of Deity of Christ
and
Holy Spirit. Severity of labours and ascetic life sent him to early grave,
greatly beloved
BAXTER, Richard (1615-1691) Puritan in Church of England, finally
forced out.
The Reformed Pastor; The Saints' Everlasting Rest; A Call to the Unconverted
among his 100+ works
BENGEL, Johann Albrecht (1687-1752) German Lutheran NT scholar,
father
of modern critical approach to text and exegesis, though strongly conservative.
His
Gnomen of the New Testament still a resource for teachers and scholars
BERNARD of Clairvaux (1091-1153) The most-read mystic of monastic
middle
ages. The most influential figure in French church of his day. Meditations
still
treasured
BERNARD, Thomas Dehany (1815-1904) Oxford-trained Church of England
priest. Wrote The Progress of Doctrine in the New Testament, The Central
Teaching of Jesus Christ
BLAIKIE, William G. (1820-1899) Clergyman in Scotland's Free Church.
Socially conscious, wrote Bible History, bio of Livingstone, commentaries
on
Samuel, Joshua
BONAR, Andrew A. (1810-1892) Brother of Horatius, Minister of Scotland's
Free Church. Wrote famous biography of McCheyne (with whom he visited
Palestine). Also books on Leviticus, Psalms
BOUNDS, Edward M. (1835-1913) Methodist, chaplain in Civil War.
Prayed
each morning 4-7, and wrote many books on what he learned of prayer. Believed
in entire sanctification.
BRIDGES, Charles (1794-1869) Church of England evangelical. Famous
commentaries on Psalms 119, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and The Christian Ministry,
a
McCheyne favorite
BROADUS, John A. (1827-1895) Virginian Baptist. Wrote valued books
on
sermon preparation and history of preaching, and a famous commentary on
Matthew
BROOKES, James H. (1830-1897) Presbyterian preacher, Princeton educated.
Wrote much on prophecy (premillenial); e.g. Maranatha; Israel and the Church;
Did
Jesus Rise?; The Mystery of Suffering
BROWN, David (1803-1897) Scottish Free Church theologian, born and
taught
in Aberdeen. Many works, including collaborating with Jamieson, Fausset
on commentary on whole Bible. Wrote key works on postmillenial prophetic
understanding
BROWN, John (1784-1858) Scot Presbyterian, called "modern Puritan"
by
Spurgeon, who said "all his expositions are of the utmost value".
Wrote on
Galatians, Peter, Isaiah 53, Hebrews etc.
BRUCE, Alexander B. (1831-1899) Free Church divine, one of the greatest
NT
scholars of the Victorian era. Wrote The Training of the Twelve; The Humiliation
of
Christ; commentaries on gospels, Hebrews
BRUCE, Frederick Fyvie (1910-1990) Worshipped in little Brethren
church.
Rylands chair of Biblical Criticism and Exegesis at University of Manchester
(1959-
78). Perhaps the outstanding conservative NT scholar of postwar generation
BULLINGER, E.W. (1837-1913) Highly individual Church of England
scholar.
Wrote much on prophecy and evidences of inspiration, including a commentary
on
Revelation, Numbers in Scripture; The Gospel in the Stars
BUNYAN, John (1628-1688) English Puritan, wrote devotional classics
Pilgrim's
Progress; Grace Abounding; The Holy War
BUTLER, Joseph (1692-1752) Church of England theologian, became
Bishop of
Bristol and later Durham, turned down Archbishopric of Canterbury. Wrote
definitive work combatting deism of his day, The Analogy of Religion, which
became a basic text in apologetics for generations. Also famous for his
formidable (printed) sermons
CALVIN, John (1509-1564) Geneva reformer. His Institutes of the
Christian
Religion and commentaries (embracing most of the Bible) are still invaluable
to
Christians
CANDLISH, Robert S. (1806-1873) A founder of Scotland's Free Church,
and
leader after Chalmers. Wrote The Fatherhood of God; commentaries on Genesis
(3
vol.) and 1 John
CHAFER, Lewis Sperry (1871-1952) Presbyterian theologian and first
president
of Dallas Seminary. Many works, including Systematic Theology (8 vol.);
Major
Bible Themes; Salvation
CHAMBERS, Oswald (1874-1917) Scottish Baptist. Many famous devotional
works, such as My Utmost for His Highest
CHARLES, Robert Henry (1855-1931) Irish Church of England scholar,
canon
of Westminster Abbey (1913-31). The foremost expert on Jewish eschatology
and
intertestamental literature of the day. Edited massive Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha
of the Old Testament (2 vol.) and wrote great work on Revelation
CLARKE, Adam (1762-1832) Great English Methodist expositor and linguist,
mostly self-taught. Greatest work huge 8-volume commentary on entire Bible
CHARNOCK, Stephen (1628-1680) Puritan, expelled from Church of England
posts, but wrote some of most enduring theological works of his age, including
Discourse upon the Existence, Attributes of God
CHRYSOSTOM, John (347-407) Born in Antioch of Syria, where his preaching
eloquence gained him the title 'golden-mouthed'. Later he became Bishop
of
Constantinople and his preaching against sin brought down wrath of Queen
Eudoxia. Exiled, but his influence continues to this day through his great
series of
commentaries
CLEMENT of Alexandria (ca.150-ca.215) One of the greatest theologians
of the
early church, saught to find good in pagan philosophies, and, some would
say,
imported too much Greek thinking into Christianity. Nevertheless, can't
be ignored
DALE, R.W. (1829-1895) Congregational preacher and reformer. Succeeded
John Angell James at Carr's Lane, Birmingham. Wrote The Atonement; The
Jewish
Temple and the Church; Lectures on Ephesians
DARBY, John Nelson (1800-1882) English founder of the Plymouth Brethren,
his views on prophecy have become known as 'dispensationalism'. Many works,
including Bible translations in English, German and French
DAVIDSON, Andrew Bruce (1831-1902) Free Church OT scholar, taught
many other famous scholars, incl. W.Robertson Smith and G.A. Smith. Many
commentaries, notable works on Job, Ezekiel, Hebrews, Old Testament Theology,
Hebrew Grammar
DEISSMANN, Gustav Adolf (1866-1937) German Lutheran NT scholar,
demonstrated through vast knowledge of papyri that NT language simply common
Greek (koine) of its time. Wrote Light from the Ancient East, works on
philology,
Paul
DELITZSCH, Franz (1813-1890) Lutheran, born in Leipzig of Hebrew
ancestry,
one of the foremost OT scholars of all time. With colleague C.F.Keil, wrote
most
distinguished conservative OT commentary of 19th century. Many other labours,
incl. commentaries on Genesis, Hebrews and Hebrew NT, System of Biblical
Psychology
DENNEY, James (1856-1917) Free Church theologian, NT scholar.
Commentaries on Romans, 2 Corinthians, Thessalonians. Also The Death of
Christ;
The Atonement and the Modern Mind; The Doctrine of Reconciliation
DODDRIDGE, Philip (1702-1751) Congregational divine, his Rise and
Progress of Religion in the Soul inspired millions, including Wilberforce,
who owed
his conversion to its influence
DODS, Marcus (1834-1909) One of Scotland's great Bible commentators
of the
Victorian era. Helped to popularize the critical treatment of the Bible.
Many works,
including The Expositor's Bible treatments of Genesis and the Gospel of
John
DRIVER, Samuel Rolles (1846-1914) English Hebrew scholar, successor
of
Pusey at Christ Church, Oxford. His OT introduction and many commentaries
brought critical German scholarship to a generation of churchmen. With
Brown and
Briggs edited still standard Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament
DRUMMOND, Henry (1851-1897) Scottish Prof of Biology, great influence
on
youth of Victorian era through work with Moody/Sankey, books Natural Law
in the
Spiritual World, The Ideal Life, The Greatest Thing in the World (on 1
Cor.13)
EADIE, John (1810-1876) Scottish NT scholar, his Bible Cyclopedia
and works
on Paul's epistles and Acts became standards of conservative exegesis
EDERSHEIM, Alfred (1825-1889) Jewish Christian scholar, born in
Vienna.
Presbyterian, then Church of England. Author of most famous life of Christ.
Also
Bible History; The Temple; Sketches of Jewish Social Life
EDWARDS, Jonathan (1703-1758) Colonial New England's greatest intellect,
America's greatest theologian. Wrote Religions Affections; Freedom of the
Will;
Original Sin and works on revival
ELLICOTT, Charles (1819-1905) Cambridge educated NT scholar, one
of the
most renowned of the Revision Committee (1881 RV). Many commentaries, other
works, including editing series named after him. Bishop of Gloucester 42
years
ERASMUS, Desiderius (1466-1536) Dutch humanist, probably the greatest
scholar of his age. His Greek NT was the basis of much of the Reformation
scholarship, though Erasmus didn't disassociate himself from the Catholic
church
ERDMAN, Charles R. (1866-1960) Presbyterian premillenial teacher,
educated
at Princeton. Many commentaries for lay people, contributed to The Fundamentals
EUSEBIUS of Caesarea (Pamphili) (ca.260-ca.340) 'Father of Church
history', his Ecclesiastical History (to 325) is source of much of what
we know of
early church. As Bishop of Caesarea, his sympathies were semi-Arian, but
signed
Nicene Creed. Also wrote 2 great works of apologetics, Preparation for
the Gospel
and Demonstration of the Gospel, as well as a world history, Chronicon,
and a life
of Constantine
FAIRBAIRN, Patrick (1805-1874) Scottish Free Church theologian.
Famous
works on Typology of Scripture; Jonah, Ezekiel, interpretation of prophecy
FARRAR, Frederic William (1831-1903) Dean of Canterbury, chaplain
of
Commons, honourary Chaplain to Queen Victoria. One of the greatest scholars
and church administrators of his age. Wrote many commentaries on both
testaments, a great Life and Work of St.Paul, History of Interpretation
and a famous
Life of Christ; adopted many higher critical positions, and challenged
doctrine of
eternal punishment
FAUSSET, A.R. (1821-1910) Irish Church of England scholar, became
canon of
York in 1885. Collaborated with Jamieson and Brown on famous commentary,
and
himself wrote a Bible encyclopedia, commentary on Judges, many more works
FINDLAY, George Gillanders (1849-1919) Welsh/English Methodist New
Testament scholar. Wrote works on Epistles of John (Fellowship in the Life
Eternal,
Galatians, Ephesians (for the Expositor's Bible) and worked on the Pulpit
Commentary
FINNEY, Charles G. (1792-1875) Congregational preacher. Systematic
Theology; Lectures on Revivals, many smaller works on Christian living
FLAVEL, John (1630-1691) English Presbyterian. Wrote The Fountain
of Life
Opened Up; Method of Grace; Treatise on the Soul of Man
FORSYTH, Peter Taylor (1848-1921) English Congregational clergyman,
wrote
The Person and Place of Christ, The Work of Christ, The Principle of Authority
FRANCIS de Sales (1567-1622) Catholic mystic, wrote devotional classics
Introduction to the Devout Life and A Treatise on the Love of God
GAEBELEIN, Arno C. (1861-1945) Methodist Episcopal minister, missionary
to
Jewish people. Wrote many books on prophecy
GEIKIE, J. Cunningham (1824-1906) Presbyterian, then Church of England.
Wrote Life and Words of Christ; Hours with the Bible; The Holy Land and
the Bible
GIRDLESTONE, Robert B. (1836-1923) Church of England clergyman,
Old
Testament scholar. Author of Synonyms of the Old Testament; Grammar of
Prophecy; Old Testament Theology
GLOVER, T.R. (1869-1943) English Baptist, one of the greatest classicists
of our
century. Wrote many works contrasting Christianity with pagan wordview
and
demonstrating the historicity of the NT: The Jesus of History, Conflict
of Religions in
the Early Roman Empire, The Influence of Christ in the Ancient World, Paul
of
Tarsus
GODET, Frederic L. (1812-1900) Swiss reformed scholar. Famous
commentaries on Luke, John, Romans, 1 Corinthians. Also NT, OT Studies;
Introduction to Paul's Epistles
GOODWIN, Thomas (1600-1680) One of the greatest Puritan divines
&
preachers, advisor of Cromwell, present at Westminster Assembly. Deprived
of
Presidency of Magdalen College, Oxford, at Restoration, devoted last years
to
scripture exposition
GORE, Charles (1853-1932) Ch. of England (High Church) Bishop of
Worcester, Birmingham and Oxford. Wrote many works with a moderately liberal
stance: Belief in God, Belief in Christ, The Holy Spirit and the Church
and several
NT expositions
GRAY, James M. (1851-1935) Episcopalian teacher, prez. of Moody
Institute.
How to Master the English Bible; Synthetic Bible Studies; Christian Worker's
Commentary
GREGORY of Nazianzus (330-390) Greatest orator of the '3 Cappadocians'.
Preceded John Chrysostom as bishop of Constantinople and a teacher of Jerome
GREGORY of Nyssa Brother of Basil, friend of Gregory Nazianzen,
after
Athanasius perhaps the greatest theologian of 4th cent. Removed as bishop
of Nyssa
by Arian emperor, later had great influence for orthodoxy at Council of
Constantinople (381). Like other Cappodocian fathers, ascetic, but unlike
them,
married
GREGORY the Great (540-604) The greatest Pope of the Catholic church,
not a
great scholar but a great administrator. Reformed the corrupt church of
his day by
affirming tradition in many areas, including celibacy and liturgy
GUYON, Madame (1648-1717) French Catholic mystic, persecuted and
imprisoned by church because of visions and writings. Friend of Fenelon,
her
writings still sought
HALDANE, Robert (1764-1842) Scottish educator, guided 300 into ministry,
including Merle d'Aubigne, Monod, Malan and Gaussen. His lectures on Romans
enormously influential in quelling the tide of rationalism in Europe
HARNACK, Karl Gustav Adolph von (1851-1930) German Lutheran,
the
outstanding expert on early church of WW1 period. Wrote radical History
of
Dogma, but came to believe in the substantial historicity of Luke and Acts
HASTINGS, James (1852-1922) Tireless Scottish clergyman, editor
of
Expository Times (1890-1922), and also, unbelievably, the Dictionary of
the
Bible,(5 vol.), and the Encyclopedia of Religion & Ethics (12 vol.),
Dictionary of
Christ and the Gospels, Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, Great Texts
of the Bible
and many more
HAVERGAL, Frances Ridley (1836-1879) English hymn and devotional
writer
of wide influence, her most famous prose work being Kept for the Master's
Use
HENGSTENBERG, E.W. (1802-1869) German Lutheran Bible scholar.
Great
work Christology of the Old Testament. Also commentaries on Psalms, Ecclesiastes,
John
HENRY, Matthew (1662-1714) Welsh Presbyterian, virtually home
educated.
Of his great commentary Spurgeon said, "every minister ought to read
it entirely
and carefully through once at least"
HILARY of Poitiers (ca.300-367) Greatest Latin theologian of
his age, 'the
Athanasius of the West'. Banished from his bishopric for opposition to
Arianism, he
composed his most famous work, De Trinitate (On the Trinity). As poet and
hymn
writer, second only to Ambrose in ancient church
HODGE, A.A. (1823-1886) Born (and died) at Princeton, NJ. Son
of Charles,
but a theologian first, not commentator. Wrote Outline of Theology; The
Atonement
HODGE, Charles (1797-1878) Philadelphian Presbyterian. Trained
3000
ministers over 50 years at Princeton. Wrote Systematic Theology, commentaries
on
Romans, Corinthians, Ephesians
HOOKER, Richard (ca.1553-1600) Church of England apologist, whose
Laws
of Ecclesiastical Polity, while defending episcopal government, took a
moderating
view of dissident Protestants. Arminian in sympathy, he naturally opposed
Calvinist
positions
HORT, Fenton J.A. (1828-1892) Cambridge NT scholar. With B.F.
Westcott,
responsible for Greek text behind Revised NT. Several works (some not complete)
on NT published after death (e.g. 1 Peter, Revelation 2-3)
IGNATIUS of Antioch (ca.40-ca.115) Bishop of Antioch, Syria,
and direct link
with apostles. His epistles, written on road to martyrdom in Rome, refute
the claim
that the early church did not teach Deity of Christ, bodily resurrection,
episcopal
government. Needless to say, he's ignored by unorthodox (e.g. Watchtower
Trinity
brochure)
INGE, William R. (called Dean, and later Sir) (1860-1954) One
of the most
influential clergymen of the first half of this century. Almost prophetic
in his
pessimism. Wrote (from liberal C.of E. position) Faith & Knowledge,
Christian
Mysticism, Lay Thoughts of a Dean
IRENAEUS (ca.130-ca.202) Bishop of Lyons, trained by Polycarp.
His greatest
work Against Heresies (ca.185) was first work to utilize (more or less)
complete New
Testament. Apparently died a martyr after having converted nearly all of
Lyons &
launched missions
IRONSIDE, Henry A. (Harry) (1876-1951) Born in Toronto, educated
in
California. Began Salvation Army, became Brethren. Over 60 books, expositions
of most of Bible
JEROME (ca.340-420) The greatest linguistic scholar of the ancient
church,
responsible for the Latin Vulgate, the official Bible of the RC church
for over a
millenium. Lived a rigorously ascetic life and also wrote commentaries
from
monastery in Bethlehem
JOHN OF THE CROSS (1542-1591) Spanish Carmelite mystic, his Dark
Night
of the Soul and other works represent the Catholic mystic tradition at
its best
JOWETT, John Henry (1864-1923) Congregational, succeeded R.W.
Dale at
Carr's Lane, Birmingham (called the finest church in the world by A.T.
Pierson).
Many devotional books of sermons, and a famous work on preaching
JUSTIN 'MARTYR' (ca.100-166) Palestinian Platonist, converted
after elderly
saint witnessed to him of the superior antiquity of the Hebrew prophets.
His
Apologies meet the philosopher on own ground; in Dialogues he becomes a
Jew to
the Jew
KEIL, J.K.F. (1807-1888) Lutheran from Saxony. One of the greatest
OT
scholars of the 19th century, collaborated with Franz Delitzsch on greatest
set of
conservative OT commentaries yet to appear; also wrote many NT commentaries
KELLOGG, Samuel H. (1839-1899) Princeton Presbyterian. Worked
on Hindi
OT. Author of notable works on prophecy and OT, great commentary on Leviticus
KELLY, William (1821-1906) Dublin born, one of the Brethren's
greatest
scholars, edited J.N. Darby's works. A prolific writer, wrote many commentaries
KENYON, Sir Frederick G. (1863-1952) One of England's outstanding
philologists and archaeologists; wrote many books defending the trustworthiness
of
the Bible: Our Bible and the Ancient Manuscripts; Handbook of the Textual
Criticism of the New Testament; The Text of the Greek Bible; The Bible
and
Modern Scholarship
KIERKEGAARD, Soren ( 1833-1855) Danish theologian, just as influential
as
'existentialist' philosopher. His attacks on established church, stress
on personal
faith, have had vast influence on 20th century thought. Works include Either/Or,
Concluding Scientific Postscript and Fear and Trembling
KITTO, John (1804-1854) Born in Plymouth, became, despite deafness
and
limited education, great Bible teacher. Famous for his Cyclopaedia, Daily
Bible
Illustrations
KRUMMACHER, F.W. (1796-1868) German reformed preacher. Works
on OT
characters include Elijah the Tishbite; The Prophet Elisha; David the King
of Israel;
as well as The Suffering Saviour
KUYPER, Abraham (1837-1920) Dutch Reformed theologian, became
Prime
Minister of Holland. Wrote Calvinism; The Work of the Holy Spirit; Principles
of
Sacred Theology
LANGE, Johann Peter (1802-1884) German reformed exegete and theologian,
his Theological and Homiletical Commentary is a standard. Many other works,
including a great Life of Jesus
LAW, William (1686-1761) English divine, his Serious Call to
a Devout and
Holy Life influenced generations to more careful obedience, including Doddridge
and Wesley
LEIGHTON, Robert (1611-1684) Scottish theologian, educated Univ.
of
Edinburgh, attempted to harmonize his early Presbyterianism with later
Anglicanism. Laboured hard for unity, sympathetic to Jansenists & Catholics.
Wrote great commentary on 1 Peter
LENSKI, Richard C.H. (1864-1936) German-born American Lutheran
scholar,
wrote massive (10,000 pages) commentary on entire NT
LIDDON, Henry Parry (1829-1900) Oxford High Church divine, wrote
definitive
Divinity of Our Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ, as well as a notable commentary
on
Romans, and a massive biography of Pusey. Turned down bishopric, but was
canon of St.Paul's Cathedral, where he is buried. Sympathetic to reunion
with
Rome
LIGHTFOOT, Joseph B. (1828-1889) Perhaps England's greatest NT
and
patristics scholar of Victorian era. Became Bishop of Durham, but still
completed
definitive works on Galatians, Philippians, Colossians and apostolic fathers.
LLOYD-JONES, David Martyn (-1980) Welsh Presbyterian preacher,
succeeded Campbell Morgan at Westminster Chapel. His 40 year incumbency
resulted in multivolume expositions on Romans and Ephesians, many works
LUTHER, Martin (1483-1546) German reformer. Influence extends
beyond
writings, but commentaries, especially on Galatians, more influential than
any but
Calvin's.
MACARTNEY, Clarence E.N. (1879-1957) American Presbyterian pastor
and
preacher, author of 47 books, mostly sermons. A key figure in the conservative/modernist
controversy of the 20s and 30s
MACHEN, John Gresham (1881-1937) Princeton theologian, and founder,
after Presbyterian modernist controversy, of Westminster Seminary. Wrote
Christianity and Liberalism; What is Faith?; The Virgin Birth of Christ
MACKINTOSH, Charles Henry (1820-1896) Irish Brethren devotional
writer,
his Notes on the Pentateuch (6 vol.) have nourished generations of Christians
MACKINTOSH, Hugh Ross (1870-1936) Church of Scotland theologian,
many
influential works: Doctrine of the Person of Jesus Christ; The Christian
Apprehension of God; Types of Modern Theology; The Christian Experience
of
Forgiveness
MacLAREN, Alexander (1826-1910) Glasgow born Baptist, preached
in
Manchester over 50 years. Sermons, especially Expositions of Holy Scripture,
excelled in influence only by Spurgeon's. Also did famous works on Psalms,
Colossians for Expositor's Bible
MATHESON, George (1842-1906) Blind Church of Scotland preacher.
Studies
of the Portrait of Christ; Representative Men (and Women) of the Bible
had wide
distribution
McCLINTOCK, John (1814-1870) American Methodist, first prez of
Drew
Seminary. With J.Strong compiled 12 vol. Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological,
&
Ecclesiastical Literature, state of the art until Hastings
MELANCTHON, Phillip (1497-1560) After Luther, the greatest figure
of the
German Reformation. Composer of the Augsburg Confession & Apology,
his spirit
was more irenic (some would say compromising) than many reformers. His
greatest work Loci Communes, Rerum Theologicarum. Buried beside Luther
at
Wittenberg
MEYER, Frederick B. (1847-1929) London Baptist pastor, his devotional
books
have had enormous circulation. They include many portraits of Bible characters,
including Peter, Paul, David, Moses, Abraham.
MEYER, Heinrich A.W. (1800-1873) Lutheran NT scholar, helped
edit Luther's
NT. Fame rests chiefly on the massive commentary named after him, which
he
edited and to which he contributed the volumes on the gospels, Acts and
some
epistles
MILLIGAN, George (1860-1934) Scot NT scholar, one of the greatest
authorities
on Greek papyri. Many works, including (with Moulton) Vocabulary of the
Greek
Testament
MILLIGAN, William (1821-1893) Edinburgh theologian and NT scholar.
On
Revised Version committee. Many works, including famous commentary on
Revelation
MOFFATT, James (1870-1944) Scot NT scholar, taught at Oxford
and Union
Theological Seminary, N.Y. Produced one of the most famous Bible translations
of
this century, and edited a complete NT commentary. Many other writings,
including
Hebrews (in International Critical Commentary) and a much-used NT introduction
MOODY, Dwight L. (1837-1899) Not an ordained minister, but the
most
effective American evangelist of the 19th century. Wrote many devotional
books,
including Prevailing Prayer
MORGAN, G. Campbell (1863-1945) Congregational preacher, books
have
had unprecedented circulation. Expositions of gospels, Isaiah, Genesis,
Hosea,
Malachi, Corinthians, Acts and more
MOULE, Handley C.G. (1841-1920) Anglican scholar, Bishop of Durham
(1901). Chaplain to Queen Victoria (1898-1901). At Cambridge produced many
learned and devout books especially on Paul's epistles
MURRAY, Andrew (1828-1917) South African Reformed Minister. Wrote
many
devotional classics on deeper life, including Abide in Christ; The Holiest
of All (on
Hebrews); With Christ in the School of Prayer
NEWMAN, John Henry (1801-1890) Born in London, Oxford-trained.
With
Keble, Froude, Pusey, formed the Tractarian or Oxford movement to reform
the
Church of England. In 1845 became Roman Catholic. Became priest, then cardinal.
His Apologia Pro Vita Sua is classic defense of Roman claims. Also wrote
hymn
Lead Kindly Light and The Idea of the University. Collections of sermons
also
eagerly sought.
NICOLL, Sir William Robertson (1851-1923) Scot editor and author.
Edited
British Weekly and Expositor, as well as The Expositor's Dictionary of
Texts, The
Expositor's Greek Testament and The English Bookman
OLSHAUSEN, Hermann (1796-1839) German Lutheran scholar, undertook
commentary on NT, left off at Thessalonians at his death from tuberculosis
ORIGEN (ORIGENES ADAMANTIUS) (c.185-c.254) Greatest scholar of
ancient church, though some of his views later came to be viewed as heretical
by
orthodoxy (e.g. semi-Arian view of Christ). Among his vast output were
many
commentaries and the Hexapla, a Bible in six columns, called by Westcott
"the
greatest textual enterprise of ancient times". An extreme ascetic,
he died in the
Decian persecution
ORR, James (1844-1913) Scottish theologian, apologist. Wrote
The Christian
View of God and the World; The Progress of Dogma; The Problem of the Old
Testament; The Resurrection of Jesus.
OWEN, John (1616-1683) Chaplain of Cromwell, perhaps the most
eminent of
Puritan divines. Wrote On the Holy Spirit; Epistle to the Hebrews; Christologia;
The
Glory of Christ, much more.
PALEY, William (1743-1805) Cambridge scholar and C. of E. rector,
his great
apologetic works Evidences of Christianity and Natural Theology shaped
the
evidential approach of generations of Christian apologists. Also wrote
Horae
Paulinae, or the Truth of the Scripture History of St. Paul and Principles
of Moral &
Political Philosophy
PARKER, Joseph (1830-1902) English Congregational preacher, in
late
Victorian era nearly as famous as Spurgeon. His People's Bible is a classic
of
exposition. Gave much of his income to England's poor and championed
downtrodden.
PASCAL, Blaise (1623-1662) French mathematician, one of the greatest
scientific minds of all time; invented calculator and discovered Theory
of Probability.
Conversion led to his involvement with Jansenists. His Provincial Letters,
in addition
to being a masterpiece of French prose, is a masterful defense of grace
against
Jesuit claims. Left planned apologetic work unfinished at death, the notes
becoming
his famous Pensees.
PIERSON, Arthur T. (1837-1911) Presbyterian preacher (though
immersed in
1896) replaced ill Spurgeon in Metropolitan pulpit (1891-93). Wrote Keys
to the
Word; New Acts of the Apostles; The Bible and Spiritual Criticism
PINK, Arthur W. (1886-1952) English devotional writer. The Attributes
of God;
The Sovereignty of God; Gleanings (in Genesis, ...in Exodus, ...in Joshua,
...in Paul,
...in the Godhead); Gospel of John.
PLUMMER, Alfred (1841-1926) Great Church of England NT scholar
and
historian, though never was ordained beyond deacon. Many commentaries,
including classics on Matthew and Luke and both Corinthians (the last 3
for ICC)
PLUMPTRE, Edward Hayes (1821-1891) Church of England clergyman,
one of
the greatest Scripture exegetes of his day. Many OT and NT commentaries.
Served
on the Old Testament Revision Committee (1870-74)
PUSEY, Edward B. (1800-1882) Oxford scholar, perhaps the greatest
Hebraist
of the C. of E. Joined the Tractarian movement, but though a lifelong friend
of
Newman never became a Romanist. Became the recognized leader of the Anglo-
Catholic party in the C. of E. Wrote 8-volume commentary on Minor Prophets,
a
classic defense of the historicity of Daniel and co-edited the Oxford Library
of the
Fathers (50 volumes).
RAMSAY, Sir William M. (1851-1939) Scot archaeologist (for which
he was
knighted), Oxford scholar. Came to believe in authority of NT by confirming
historical detail of book of Acts. Many books on Paul, early church
RAWLINSON, George (1812-1902) Camden professor of ancient history
of
Oxford. Works confirmed Bible, including many commentaries, Seven Great
Monarchies; Historical Evidences of the Truth of the Scripture Records
ROBERTSON, Frederick William (1816-1853) Church of England preacher,
educated at Edinburgh and Oxford. A Celt whose fire in the pulpit and Socialist
sympathies led to great -- but short -- ministry in Brighton. Left only
sermon notes
ROBERTSON, A.T. (1863-1934) Southern Baptist NT scholar, son-in-law
of J.
Broadus, his successor at Southern Baptist Seminary, Louisville. Many books,
including monumental Grammar of the Greek New Testament
RYLE, John Charles (1816-1900) Cheshire Church of England minister,
became bishop of Liverpool. Expository Thoughts on the Gospels (7 vol);
Knots
Untied; Holiness; Christian Leaders of the Last Century
SANDAY, William (1843-1920) Oxford C.of E. New Testament scholar,
produced Life of Christ in Recent Research, Christologies Ancient and Modern,
2
works on the Gospel of John, and (with Headlam) a great commentary on Romans.
Many more.
SAPHIR, Adolph (1831-1891) Jewish convert to Christ, became Presbyterian
minister. Wrote Christ and Israel; Divine Unity of Scripture; Christ and
the
Scriptures; an exposition of Hebrews
SAUER, Erich Billy Graham said: "Dr. Sauer's books should
be in the hands of
every Christian." Wrote Dawn of World Redemption; King of the Earth;
Triumph of
the Crucified; In the Arena of Faith; From Eternity to Eternity
SAVONAROLA (1452-1498) During the renaissance, the greatest reformer
of the
Roman Catholic church. His years of preaching against corruption from his
home
base in Florence led to his being offered (as mollification) cardinalship,
which he
refused. His prophetic protest led to his being hung and burned, but inspiration
fuelled Reformation
SCHAFF, Philip (1819-1893) One of America's most distinguished
and prolific
scholars, born and educated in Germany. His great works 8-vol. History
of the
Christian Church and 3-vol. Creeds of Christendom.Attempted to emphasize
Christian unity on essentials. Also edited Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia and
U.S.
edition of Lange's commentary.
SCROGGIE, W. Graham (1877-1959) Scot scholar, preacher. Guide
to the
Gospels; The Great Unveiling; Know Your Bible; Unfolding Drama of Redemption;
The Fascination of the Old Testament, The Love Life
SEISS, Joseph A. (1823-1904) Lutheran minister, editor of Prophetic
Times.
Wrote commentary on The Apocalypse; The Last Times, controversial books
on the
great pyramid, primeval astrology
SHEDD, William G.T. (1820-1894) American Presbyterian theologian,
upheld
tradtional orthodoxy against modernism at Union Theological Seminary. Famous
works include commentary on Romans, History of Christian Doctrine, Doctrine
of
Endless Punishment, and Dogmatic Theology (3 vol.)
SIMEON, Charles (1759-1836) Church of England clergyman, centre
of
evangelical influence at Cambridge for 54 years. Instrumental in emphasis
on
missions, and author of Horae Homiletica, a study of all scripture
SIMPSON, A.B. (1844-1919) Presbyterian minister, born in P.E.I.,
educated
here at Knox. Founder of Christian and Missionary Alliance. Author of more
than
70 books, many on Holy Spirit, higher life
SMITH, George Adam (1856-1942) Scottish OT expert, wrote Historical
Geography of the Holy Land, Jerusalem,famous commentaries on Isaiah, Jeremiah
and minor prophets, a bio of Drummond
SMITH, Wilbur M. (1894-1976) American Presbyterian bibliophile
and author.
38 years as editor of Peloubet's Sunday School notes, and several books
on books,
excellent resources for students and pastors
SPURGEON, Charles Haddon (1834-1892) English Baptist preacher,
a latter-
day Puritan. Many volumes of sermons (2000+ total) Treasury of David (7
vol. on
Psalms), Lectures to My Students; Commenting and Commentaries
STALKER, James (1848-1927) Scottish Free Church teacher. Lives
of Christ;
Paul; Imago Christi; The Beauty of the Bible; Christian Psychology; The
Seven
Deadly Sins
STREETER, Burnett H. (1874-1937) Oxford NT scholar, seminal work
on The
Four Gospels, and philosophy/apologetics such as Reality and Foundations
STRONG, Augustus H. (1836-1921) Yale educated Baptist theologian,
President
of Rochester Seminary for 40 years. His Systematic Theology still basic.
Also
Philosophy and Religion; The Great Poets & Their Theology
STRONG, James (1822-1894) American Methodist lay scholar. In
addition to
monumental Exhaustive Concordance, did the lion's share of work on 12-vol.
McClintock & Strong Cyclopaedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical
Literature
SWETE, Henry Barclay (1835-1917) Church of England New Testament
and
patristics scholar. Responsible for The Old Testament in Greek according
to the
Septuagint, 3 books on the Holy Spirit, commentaries on Mark, Revelation
TAYLOR, Jeremy (1613-1667) Church of England devotional writer,
exiled
under the Puritan ascendancy, during which time he wrote his famous works
Life of
Liberty, Liberty of Prophesying, Holy Living and Holy Dying
TAYLOR, William Mackergo (1829-1895) Scot preacher, latterly
served at
Congregational Broadway Tabernacle in NY. Many excellent character studies,
including Joseph, Moses, Ruth, David, Daniel, Esther, Peter and Paul. Also
The
Miracles of our Saviour
TEMPLE, William (1881-1944) Oxford educated, son of Archbishop
of
Canterbury Frederick T. Became Bishop of Manchester, Archbiship of York,
chaplain to both king and Archbishop of Canterbury, which he himself then
became
(1942). Many works, such as Nature, Man and God and Studies in St.John's
Gospel. Very active in social sphere, founding World Council of Churches
TERESA of Avila (1515-1582) Spanish mystic, founder of Discalced
Carmelite
order. Wrote The Way of Perfection, The Interior Castleand an autobiography
TERTULLIAN (ca.160-ca.220) Carthage-born Latin father, one of
the ablest
apologists of the early church. Ascetic in emphasis, later became Montanist,
in
protest of abuses and corruption in Catholic Christianity
THAYER, Joseph Henry (1828-1901) Boston-born, Andover and Harvard
educated NT lexicographer. His great work A Greek-English Lexicon of the
New
Testament. Contributed much to the American Standard Version (1901)
THOMAS a Kempis (1380-1471) German monk whose Imitation of Christ
was
the most widely distributed Christian book of the middle ages. Copied Bible
4 times
THOMAS AQUINAS (ca.1227-1274) Greatest of all Roman Catholic
theologians, his Summa Theologia, influenced by Aristotle, is the dominant
work of
medieval scholasticism, 'thomism' so-called
THOMAS, W.H. Griffith (1861-1924) Church of England scholar,
taught at
Oxford, St. Paul's, Wycliffe (Toronto). A co-founder of Dallas Seminary.
Among
many valuable works, commentaries on Genesis and Romans
TORREY, Reuben A. (1856-1928) Congregational evangelist. Pastor
at Moody
Institute. Wrote 40 books, including How to Pray. On editorial committee
of The
Fundamentals
TREGELLES, Samuel Prideaux (1813-1875) English Bible scholar,
with
Quaker, Brethren and Presbyterian connections. A pioneer in textual criticism,
expert in both Greek and Hebrew lexicography
TRENCH, Richard C. (1807-1886) Archbishop of Dublin, served at
Oxford,
Cambridge, and Dean of Westminster. Famous for Notes on Parables and Miracles
of Our Lord. Also wrote on gospels, 7 churches of Revelation
TYNDALE, William (1494-1536) Pioneer translator of the English
Bible. His
death at the instigation of England's established church was truly the
seed of the
Bible's spreading influence in England
VAUGHAN, Charles John (1816-1897) Church of England clergyman,
wrote
excellent Greek commentaries on Romans, Philippians, Hebrews and Revelation.
VINCENT, Marvin R. (1834-1922) American NT scholar, best known
for 4-vol.
Word Studies in the New Testament. Also a commentary on Philippians and
Philemon, History of the Textual Criticism of the New Testament
VOS, Geerhardus (1862-1949) Dutch Presbyterian theologian. Later
Princeton.
Biblical Theology; The Mosaic Origin of the Pentateuchal Codes; Pauline
Eschatology; The Self-Disclosure of Jesus
WARFIELD, Benjamin B. (1851-1921) Princeton NT scholar and theologian.
Wrote Inspiration; The Lord of Glory; Counterfeit Miracles; Perfectionism;
The Plan
of Salvation
WESLEY, John (1703-1791) Founder of Methodism, though didn't
wish to
separate from Church of England. A prolific writer (mostly tracts), his
most famous
production being his Journal
WESTCOTT, Brooke Foss (1825-1901) Church of England NT scholar,
the
Greek text he laboured on (with F.J.A. Hort) is the basis of many modern
translations, including the New World (Watchtower). His works, still indispensable,
include New Testament Canon; Introduction to the Study of the Gospels,
commentaries on John's gospel and epistles, Hebrews, Ephesians
WHITEFIELD, George (1714-1770) English preacher, C. of E. background.
Early associate of Wesleys, but later emphasis more Calvinistic. Sermons
still valued
WHYTE, Alexander (1837-1921) Free Church preacher. Famous for
Bible
Characters; Commentary on the Shorter Catechism; Lord Teach Us to Pray;
The
Walk, Conversation, Character of Jesus Christ Our Lord
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