Reformed Confessions of the 16th and 17th Centuries - Volume 1: 1523-1549

REFORMED CONFESSIONS OF THE 16TH AND 17TH CENTURIES - VOLUME 1: 1523-1549

Far from common perception, the Reformed tradition does not have its foundation in a single theologian or confessional document; rather, its basis lies in a series of foundational documents created by the church during the 16th and 17th centuries, testifying to the inherent unity and diversity in this tradition. This compilation of confessional documents offers us the opportunity to see the profound theological unity that manifested in Protestantism during the first centuries of its existence. But, at the same time, it allows us to value the controversial aspects and the diversity present within Protestant theology. For the reformers and their followers, to be Protestant, and even more so, to be Reformed, essentially meant to be confessional.
This text is the first in a series of six volumes that collects numerous Reformed confessions from the 16th and 17th centuries. Many of these texts are presented for the first time in the language of Cervantes, providing the Spanish-speaking world a broader and more complete view of the birth and evolution of Reformed theology during these foundational centuries. In addition, essential summaries of Reformed doctrine from this period are included. Each confessional statement is preceded by an introduction that provides the necessary historical and bibliographic context. The confessions are arranged in chronological order, and this first volume includes twenty-six documents covering the years 1523-1549.

James Dennison’s introductions and his exhaustive collection of Reformed confessions from the 16th and 17th centuries are a magnificent achievement that powerfully testifies to the rich development, harmony, and piety of the Reformed faith. With the blessing of the Spirit, these volumes will help to recover a robust and vital Reformed theology that informs minds, convinces hearts, and moves hands to live exclusively for the glory of God. Every Reformed pastor, professor, seminary student, library, and thoughtful layperson should purchase and study this remarkable collection.
Dr. Joel R. Beeke,
President of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary

About the editor:
James T. Dennison Jr. is academic dean of Northwest Theological Seminary in Lynnwood, Washington, where he is also a full professor of Church History and Biblical Theology. He earned his bachelor's degree at Geneva College, and his BD, MDiv, ThM, and PhD at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. He was ordained in the UPCUSA, the PCA, and later, the OPC. He is the author of numerous books, and has also edited several important academic books, including Francis Turretin's Institutes of Elenctic Theology, Geerhardus Vos's Old Testament Eschatology.