Journal: Southeastern Theological Review
Volume: STR 14:2 (Fall 2023)
Article: John Gill And The Rule Of Faith: A Case Study In The Baptist Retrieval Of Tradition
Author: David Rathel

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John Gill And The Rule Of Faith: A Case Study In The Baptist Retrieval Of Tradition

David Rathel

Gateway Baptist Theological Seminary, Ontario, CA

Abstract: This article explores the overlooked legacy of John Gill (1697–1771), an influential figure within eighteenth-century Particular Baptist circles. Central to the article’s argument is Gill’s deliberate utilization of the “regula fidei” (rule of faith) in his scriptural interpretation derived from the Apostles’ Creed and the theological debates of the fourth century. This approach positions Gill as a compelling exemplar for contemporary Baptists seeking to engage in theological retrieval. Despite occasional rhetorical criticisms of tradition, Gill’s pragmatic approach as an exegete and theologian reveals a nuanced methodology. He consistently referenced the works of early church theologians to enrich his own writings, demonstrating a belief in reading Scripture through the lens of the rule of faith—a condensed summary of gospel truths distilled from tradition. Gill’s endorsement of the reliability of the Apostles’ Creed further underscores its pertinence as a guiding framework for modern theological projects.

Key Words: Baptist theology, hermeneutics, historical theology, John Gill, rule of faith

John Gill (1697–1771) was an influential eighteenth-century Particular Baptist minister. He pastored an important London church, a congregation that would generations later become the Metropolitan Tabernacle associated with Charles Haddon Spurgeon. He was the first Baptist to compose a commentary on every book of the Bible and likely the first Baptist to author a complete systematic theology.1 Gill’s significant pulpit ministry and extensive publications afforded him tremendous influence not just over British Particular Baptists but also over North

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American theologians. Citations of Gill’s works appear in the writings of Jonathan Edwards, J. L. Dagg, and William G. T. Shedd.2

Despite his labors, Gill does not often appear on lists documenting the Baptist tradition’s great luminaries. Perhaps two reasons account for this neglect. First, some readers perceive Gill’s writings as dense and inaccessible. Robert Hall once famously declared Gill’s works to be “a continent of mud.”3 This sentiment has appeared not infrequently; for example, the Baptist historian Henry C. Vedder reflected that Gill’s biblical commentaries were “more learned than perspicuous.”You must have a subscription and be logged in to read the entire article.
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