Useful Learning

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Explorations of the English Baptist reception of the Evangelical Revival often--and rightfully--focus on the work of the Spirit, prayer, Bible study, preaching, and mission, while other key means are often overlooked. Useful Learning examines the period from c. 1689 to c. 1825, and combines history in the form of the stories of Baptist pastors, their churches, and various societies, and theology as found in sermons, pamphlets, personal confessions of faith, constitutions, covenants, and theological treatises. In the process, it identifies four equally important means of grace. The first was the theological renewal that saw moderate Calvinism answer "The Modern Question, " develop into evangelical Calvinism, and revive the denomination. Second were close groups of ministers whose friendship, mutual support, and close theological collaboration culminated in the formation of the Baptist Missionary Society, and local itinerant mission work across much of Britain. Third was their commitment to reviving stagnating Associations, or founding new ones, convinced of the vital importance of the corporate Christian life and witness for the support and strengthening of the local churches, and furthering the spread of the gospel to all people. Finally was the conviction of the churches and their pastors that those with gifts for preaching and ministry should be theologically educated. At first local ministers taught students in their homes, and then at the Bristol Academy. In the early nineteenth century, a further three Baptist academies were founded at Horton, Abergavenny, and Stepney, and these were soon followed by colleges in America, India, and Jamaica. "The eighteenth century witnessed a striking renewal of Particular Baptist life. In a careful exposition of the writings of the many eminent ministers of the period, Anthony R. Cross shows how a blend of moderate Calvinism merged with the characteristic zeal of the Evangelical Revival to produce fresh spiritual vigor." --David Bebbington, Professor of History, University of Stirling "This important book fills a gap in the existing literature on eighteenth-century Calvinistic Baptist life. Dr. Cross's work is impressive both for its breadth of coverage and eye for telling detail. The themes that Useful Learning highlights, especially theological renewal, spiritual friendship, and theological education, were crucial to the revivification of Baptist life. Both scholars and more general readers will gain much from this fine study. Highly recommended." --Peter J. Morden, Lecturer in Church History and Spirituality, Spurgeon's College, London Anthony R. Cross is an Adjunct Supervisor at The International Baptist Theological Study Centre, Amsterdam