God Has Spoken [eBook]

A History of Christian Theology

Christian theology didn’t develop in a vacuum.

Understanding the story behind the doctrines that have been debated, defined, and defended throughout history is crucial for truly understanding the doctrines themselves.

In this groundbreaking resource, professor Gerald Bray traces the history of Christian theology from the early church to the modern era. Structured to parallel the order in which orthodoxy gradually matured in response to challenges from both within and without the church, this volume tells the story of how Christians have struggled to understand, confess, and worship the triune God through the centuries.

Gerald Bray (DLitt, University of Paris-Sorbonne) is research professor of divinity, history, and doctrine at Beeson Divinity School and director of research for the Latimer Trust. He is a prolific writer and has authored or edited numerous books, including The Doctrine of God, Biblical Interpretation: Past and Present, and God Is Love.

“A remarkably learned, wise, and substantial study of the history of Christian doctrine. Written by an Anglican who is also an evangelical, this volume interacts with the entire scope of Christian theology in all of its major ecclesial trajectories. This book will stand the test of time—in the best tradition of Newman, Harnack, and Pelikan.”
—Timothy George, Founding Dean, Beeson Divinity School; general editor, Reformation Commentary on Scripture

“Despite its breadth, one that covers the centuries, God Has Spoken also plumbs the depths of numerous doctrines throughout the church’s last two thousand years. This volume is an excellent resource for students, pastors, and scholars, and for anyone who wants to study the organic development of the church’s theology. This will prove to be an invaluable resource for generations to come.”
—J. V. Fesko, Academic Dean and Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology, Westminster Seminary California

“Under Gerald Bray’s able pen, the history of Christian thought comes to life. Bray’s Trinitarian way of framing the story of Christian doctrine is a creative and helpful contribution to the discipline. His familiarity with the sources from every branch of the Christian tree is refreshing—and enviable! His evenhanded narrative—mixed with periodic personal commentary that is often witty, always insightful, and occasionally provocative—makes this book a delight to read. God Has Spoken will be essential reading for scholars and students for years to come. Highly recommended.”
—Nathan A. Finn, Associate Professor of Historical Theology and Baptist Studies, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary