by Archibald Alexander
in ePub, & .pdf formats
Lecture Notes of Archibald Alexander from the Hand of Charles Hodge
This work and its format has been placed in the public domain by Travis Fentiman (2023), the previous copyright holder. Use it in any godly, profitable way you desire. It was previously printed in 2019 by Reformation Heritage Books (Grand Rapids), which had a temporally limited, exclusive publishing privilege.
"God, Creation & Human Rebellion," based on the lecture notes of Archibald Alexander as taken down by Charles Hodge, is a profound contribution to Christian theology, capturing the essence of systematic theology in a catechetical form. The book, emerging from the theologically rich period of Princeton Seminary, marks a return to the profound teachings that characterized the institution's best days.
The book encompasses a range of theological subjects including Philosophy of the Mind, Theology, Revealed Theology and Prophecy, Inspiration, Attributes, the Trinity, Decrees, Predestination, Election, Reprobation, Creation, Providence, Angels, the Covenant of Nature or of Works, Seals of the Covenant, Sin, and the Will. These notes reflect the intellectual rigor and spiritual depth of Alexander's teachings, which aimed to cultivate not just academic knowledge but a profound love for Christ, Scripture, and the souls of listeners.
Alexander's unique ability to spontaneously express deep spiritual truths, enriched by extensive reading and understanding, is evident throughout the notes. His teaching in the classroom was transformative, shaping the minds and characters of students and preparing them for their life’s work in the pulpit.
The historical significance of these notes is immense. They represent the intellectual and spiritual legacy of two of the greatest theologians and seminary educators in American Christianity, Archibald Alexander and Charles Hodge, whose influence on generations of church leaders and educators is unparalleled.
The book also reflects a critical period in theological education. The nineteenth century saw significant shifts in ministerial training, moving from a classical curriculum to a more advanced and detailed theological study, responding to the challenges of the Enlightenment and the need for a new model of ministerial training. This transition was marked by a deeper focus on exegesis, biblical studies, doctrine, church history, and historical theology, reflecting the evolving identity and mission of American Presbyterianism.
Underlying this rigorous academic endeavor was a profound spiritual commitment. The founders of Princeton Seminary, including Alexander, believed that true theological understanding and teaching required a spiritually teachable disposition, deeply rooted in the Scriptures and the work of the Holy Spirit. This spiritual focus is vividly captured in Hodge's reflections on the spiritual atmosphere at Princeton Seminary during its early decades, emphasizing the Christ-centered piety and biblical faithfulness of its professors.
Overall, "God, Creation & Human Rebellion" is a testament to the enduring relevance of theological education that integrates academic excellence with deep spiritual vitality, as exemplified in the lives and teachings of Alexander and Hodge.
"This collection of lecture notes from Archibald Alexander and the pen of Charles Hodge clearly illustrates the philosophical underpinnings, apologetic methods, and theological commitments of both. Students and scholars of Old Princeton will find this a clear, brief, and provocative read." - Todd Rester, associate professor of church history, Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia
"For slightly over a century, Princeton Theological Seminary served as the bulwark for confessional and convictional Christianity. Two of its towering figures were Archibald Alexander and his star pupil Charles Hodge. This utterly remarkable book brings us Alexander's teaching from the notes written in Hodge's own hand. Open this book and step back into 1818, pull up a seat in the classroom next to Charles Hodge, and listen as Professor Alexander teaches us about truth, God, the Bible, the covenant, and salvation. These lectures shaped and formed Charles Hodge. They can shape and form you too." - Stephen J. Nichols, president of Reformation Bible College and chief academic officer of Ligonier Ministries
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Table of Contents
Preface
Foreword
Introduction
1. Philosophy of the Mind
2. Theology
3. Revealed Theology and Prophecy 5
4. Inspiration
5. Attributes
6. Trinity
7. Decrees
8. Predestination
9. Election
10. Reprobation
11. Creation
12. Providence
13. Angels
14. Covenant of Nature or of Works
15. Seals of the Covenant
16. Sin
17. On the Will