Building and Beauty

Ecclesiology will always be a fascinating doctrine due to its practicality and application. It is the “cherry on top” of a church's entire theology. The understanding of doctrines like the Gospel and the authority of the Scriptures is manifested in every practical action of a church. I believe it has been rightly said: “If you want to know what a church's doctrine is like, look at its ecclesiology.” For example, the way a church understands the Gospel is clearly manifested in the practical applications of its life as a church when considering someone for baptism and membership, or when exercising church discipline. Everything we do rests on what we believe. However, behind every practical application of a church, there are not only very important theological concepts related to salvation or the doctrine of God, but also to the identity of the church and its purpose. Unfortunately, this precious pearl has lost its luster in the eyes of many in our day. There are various factors that have led to the church being displaced from its centrality in God's plan and the salvation of sinners. For this reason, it is a privilege to present to you this work by Dr. James Renihan, which is not merely a historical account of what Particular Baptists practically did in their churches in the 17th century, but a reflection of what we believe to be a consistent application of God's truth in the most practical and everyday form of church life.

This book is a valuable gem because it maintains a sweet balance between the academic and the pastoral. Its invaluable historical content, taken from primary sources in libraries and other places in England, is accompanied by the pleasant aroma emanating from a pastor's practical reflections. - From the Preface to the Judicious and Impartial Reader