Historical Theology

William Cunningham’s Historical Theology is a masterful two-volume set, born out of his lectures to the Church History class at New College, Edinburgh, from 1847 to 1861. Cunningham’s clarity and conviction make this work both accessible and deeply compelling.

Faith and Practice

The first volume explores the biblical foundation of the Church, its early councils, and the Apostolic Fathers. It also delves into the development of key theological doctrines, such as the incarnation and the Trinity, while tracing the rise of scholasticism, the Reformation, and the pivotal Council of Trent.

This work is a rich and thorough exploration of systematic theology through the lens of church history. Cunningham’s approach offers a unique perspective—showing theology not just as abstract doctrine, but as a living, unfolding story of faith and practice.

Christ and His Church

The second volume takes up the development of key doctrines like justification and the atonement, as well as the debates surrounding the Arminian and Socinian controversies. Cunningham also dedicates significant space to discussions on Presbyterianism, Congregationalism, and the Free Church of Scotland.

Ultimately, the history of the Church is the history of God’s interaction with His people—a grand, ongoing drama with God at its heart. Cunningham’s Historical Theology invites readers to immerse themselves in this narrative, offering a rich, transformative exploration that will draw you closer to Christ and his Church.

I received a media copy of Historical Theology and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.