Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 132:527 (Jul 1975)
Article: Periodical Reviews
Author: Anonymous

BSac 132:527 (Jul 75) p. 265

Periodical Reviews

Can a Seminary Stand Fast?” Harold O. J. Brown, Christianity Today, February 14,1975, pp. 7-9.

This is an intriguing question, especially to a person who is devoting his life to theological education in a seminary. Its scope of interest should be much broader, however, than the circle of administrators and teachers and students directly involved in seminaries. It should reach out to the entire Christian community because ultimately the purity and vitality of the church is at stake.

Brown does not give a very encouraging answer to his question. He says, after discussing a number of seminaries that have not stood fast, “There is certainly no reliable technique or instrument to guarantee that a school will continue to support the ideals that inspired its foundation” (p. 8). History certainly supports his conclusion. The illustrations of schools that have departed from their original theology can be multiplied beyond the ones Brown mentions.

In essence Brown says that the price of standing fast for a seminary (this holds true for any Christian institution) is eternal vigilance and perseverance. This is just as true for the individual Christian in his personal spiritual life. Brown says, “Recognize that it is a constant battle, and engage in it consciously, deliberately, and repeatedly” (p. 9).

As an aid in the constant struggle to stand fast theologically Brown suggests having a confession of faith. Such a confession “must identify the important doctrinal issues and speak decisively on them” (p. 8). It must be comprehensive, and yet not so detailed that everyone who affirms agreement with it must do so with some mental reservations. In addition “it must be repeatedly reexamined and reaffirmed” (p. 8) and problems of conformity that arise must be dealt with. Furthermore, a statement of faith may need “to be expanded as new areas of conflict appear” (p. 8).

BSac 132:527 (Jul 75) p. 266

Brown also suggests as necessary aids to a seminary’s standing fast the development and maintenance of “a principle of separation” and “a practice of discipline” (pp. 8-9). A seminary’s commitment and its distinctiveness must be maintained (the principle of separation) and spiritual exercises and the devotional life must be encouraged (the practice of discipline).

“Nineteenth Century Theology as Heritage and Fate,” James M. Robinson, The Drew Gateway 44 (Winter-Spring 1974): 54-71.

“American Protestant Theology, 1900-1970,” Deane William Ferrn, Religion in Life 44 (Spring 1975): 59-72.

Although the issue of The Drew Gateway is dated Winter-Spring, 19...