International Christian Classics (Biblically Reformed And Confessional)

"Slavery" by Charles Hodge is a critical examination of the institution of slavery from a theological and biblical perspective. Written during a time of intense debate over slavery in America, Hodge, a prominent Presbyterian theologian, seeks to provide a balanced and scholarly analysis of the issue. In his treatise, Hodge acknowledges the historical presence of slavery in both the Old a...

"A Spiritual Antidote Against Sinful Contagion In Dying Times" by Thomas Dolittle is a 17th-century religious treatise that addresses the challenges faced during times of widespread illness and mortality. In this work, Dolittle offers spiritual guidance and consolation to those grappling with the fear and uncertainty brought about by epidemics or "dying times." The treatise begins by acknowledging...

"Of The Law And Christian" by Puritan John Bunyan delves into the relationship between the Christian believer and the law of God. In this work, Bunyan expounds on the nature and purpose of the law as revealed in Scripture and its application to the life of the believer under the New Covenant. He emphasizes that while the law of God remains a perfect standard of righteousness, it no longe...

The work opens with Bunyan establishing the biblical basis for the doctrine of the Trinity - one God eternally existing as three distinct but co-equal persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. He cites numerous Scripture passages that reference all three divine persons. Bunyan then explains why the Trinity is a crucial doctrine for understanding God's nature and mankind's relation...

The letters of John Knox provide a unique window into the life and character of the famous Scottish reformer. While his published writings exhibit his powerful preaching and theological ideas, Knox's personal letters reveal a more intimate side to the man. One defining episode covered in the letters is Knox's romantic relationship with his first wife, Marjorie Bowes. The two met and formed...

John Bunyan was an influential Puritan preacher and author best known for his allegory "The Pilgrim's Progress." Towards the end of his life, Bunyan recorded a collection of his final thoughts and reflections, which were published posthumously as "John Bunyan's Dying Sayings." In this work, Bunyan discusses a variety of spiritual and theological topics that were of grea...

John Bunyan's last sermon, preached in 1688, serves as a poignant conclusion to his lifelong ministry. In this sermon, Bunyan reflects on the brevity and uncertainty of human life, urging his listeners to heed the urgency of preparing for eternity. He emphasizes the importance of repentance, faith, and holiness, urging sinners to turn to Christ for salvation and believers to persevere in their...

"Resolutions As To The Eldership" by James Henley Thornwell is a comprehensive treatise that outlines the principles and responsibilities associated with the office of eldership within the church. Thornwell explores the biblical basis for the eldership, drawing from passages in the New Testament that delineate the qualifications and duties of elders. He emphasizes the importance of spiri...

"The Ruling Elder A Presbyter" by James Henley Thornwell is a scholarly exploration of the biblical role and authority of ruling elders within the Presbyterian church. Thornwell argues that ruling elders, often overlooked in discussions of church government, hold a scripturally mandated position of leadership and oversight alongside teaching elders (ministers). Drawing from the New Testa...

"Exhorting to the Study of Christianity" by Reformer Zacharius Ursinus is a compelling call to engage deeply with the study of Christianity. In this work, Ursinus emphasizes the importance of earnestly pursuing knowledge of the Christian faith. He stresses that the study of Christianity is not merely an academic exercise but a vital aspect of spiritual growth and maturity. Ursinus encour...

"The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification" by Puritan Walter Marshall is a profound exploration of the process of sanctification through the lens of the Gospel. Here's a summary of the key themes and insights from Marshall's work: Gospel-Centered Sanctification: Marshall emphasizes that true sanctification is a work of God's grace, rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He argues...

"A Treatise of the Fear of God" by John Bunyan is a Puritan work that delves into the vital theme of fearing God. In this treatise, Bunyan explores the nature and significance of godly fear, emphasizing its role in the life of a believer. He underscores the distinction between a slavish fear that leads to bondage and a filial fear that arises from love and reverence for God. .Bunyan expl...

"Presbyterianism and the Eldership" by James Henley Thornwell is a seminal work that explores the nature, function, and significance of the eldership within the Presbyterian form of church government. Here's a summary of the key themes and insights from Thornwell's work: Biblical Foundation: Thornwell begins by examining the biblical basis for the eldership, tracing its origins a...

John Chrysostom's sermons on the entire Epistle of 1st Corinthians provide a comprehensive biblical commentary, offering spiritual insights and practical guidance for the Christian community. Chrysostom, an influential early Christian theologian and preacher, addresses a range of theological and moral issues raised in Paul's letter. Exegesis and Interpretation: Chrysostom engages in thorou...

"Seed Thoughts" by Puritan Joseph Caryl is a collection of concise and profound reflections on various spiritual topics out of his exposition through the book of Job. It covers a range of themes and topics including: Concise Spiritual Reflections: "Seed Thoughts" offers short yet powerful reflections on God's attributes, the Christian life, prayer, repentance, and the sover...

"The Ruling Elder A Presbyter" by James Henley Thornwell is a scholarly exploration of the biblical role and authority of ruling elders within the Presbyterian church. Thornwell argues that ruling elders, often overlooked in discussions of church government, hold a scripturally mandated position of leadership and oversight alongside teaching elders (ministers). Drawing from the New Testa...

"Theological Orations" by Gregory of Nazianzus, also known as Gregory the Theologian, is a collection of five influential speeches delivered by Gregory in defense of Nicene orthodoxy and the doctrine of the Trinity. It covers: Defending Orthodoxy: Gregory delivered the "Theological Orations" during the fourth century when the Christian Church was embroiled in theological contro...

Lancelot Andrewes' "Devotions" is a collection of private prayers and meditations that reflect the depth of his spiritual life and theological insight. "Devotions" covers the below topics: Spiritual Depth: "Devotions" showcases Andrewes' profound spirituality and his intimate relationship with God. The prayers delve into the mysteries of faith and express a de...

"Preparations for Sufferings" by Puritan John Flavel is a deeply insightful treatise that addresses the believer's readiness to endure trials and tribulations in the Christian journey. He emphasises the following key points: Anticipation of Sufferings:Flavel underscores the inevitability of suffering in the Christian life, emphasizing the need for believers to prepare themselves ment...

"The Obedience of a Christian Man" by William Tyndale is a seminal work that expounds on the principles of Christian obedience and the believer's relationship to civil authority. It covers: Biblical Foundation: Tyndale grounds his discussion of obedience in Scripture, emphasizing the authority of God's Word as the ultimate guide for Christian conduct. Submission to Civil Authorit...

"The Heart of Christ in Heaven towards Sinners on Earth" by Puritan Thomas Goodwin is a profound exploration of Christ's ongoing love and intercession for believers from His exalted position in heaven. Its key points include: Christ's Compassionate Heart: Goodwin delves into the compassionate heart of Christ, emphasizing His deep love and concern for sinners on earth despite His...

"A Short Survey of the Right Manner of Erecting and Ordering a Family According to the Scriptures" by Puritan William Perkins provides a concise guide to establishing and organizing a Christian household based on biblical principles. Here's a summary of its key points: Biblical Foundation: Perkins emphasizes the importance of Scripture as the ultimate authority for establishing famil...

Augustine of Hippo's work "On Grace and Free Will" explores the relationship between divine grace and human free will. The key themes include: Human Depravity: Augustine begins by emphasizing the fallen state of humanity due to original sin. He argues that human nature is corrupted, and individuals are incapable of choosing good on their own. Divine Sovereignty: Augustine underscores...

Can a theology from 500 years ago still be relevant today? Dutch theologian Herman Bavinck makes the case for Calvinism's continued vibrancy in this 1894 article. He maintains that Calvinism epitomizes core Biblical truths about God’s sovereignty, human nature, sin, salvation, and more. It provides a coherent worldview across spheres of life and learning. Bavinck counters claims that Calvinism...

Augustine of Hippo's "On the Predestination of the Saints" explores the complex theological topic of predestination, particularly focusing on God's sovereign choice in saving individuals. Here is a summary of the key themes in Augustine's work: God's Sovereignty: Augustine asserts the absolute sovereignty of God in predestination. He contends that God, in His infinite wis...