Abstract of Systematic Theology [Complete and Annotated]

by James P. Boyce

James P. Boyce, the first president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, described his Abstract of Systematic Theology as follows: “This volume is published rather as a practical text book, for the study of the system of doctrine taught in the Word of God, than as a contribution to theological science.” Since its publication, Boyce’s Abstract has indeed served as a tool for education. Pastors and young people seeking to know more about the Reformed Baptist tradition here find a still-relevant resource.

Genres: Theology, Nonfiction, Christian, Reference

530 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 31, 1886

Reviews

[Scott Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

James Petigru Boyce (1827-1888) was one of the founders of Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Dr.Boyce studied at Princeton Seminary under A.A. Alexander and Charles Hodge. This commentary is unique in that it reflects the Reformed Baptist Biblical tradition of which many Southern Baptists are either unaware or have sadly rejected.

[Gabe Rathe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great for expansion of the mind.

loved it. created some good thoughts and challenged some preconceived notions. Great reference for bible study since he uses enormous amounts of scripture. lots of references to Charles Hodge's theology work.

[Zachary Houghton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful summary of systematic theology from a Calvinistic Baptist point of view. Not perfect, and laborious to get through in parts, but far less compromising than many systematic theologies today.

[Ronnie Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best Systematic Theologies I've had the joy of reading. I may be a little biased because of the author's Reformed Baptist views, but I cannot begin to explain how delightful this work has been to read. Biblical, consistent, and thorough. I will keep a copy of this one close at hand for reference in the future. I would encourage all my Southern Baptist brothers to dig into this work and see how far away from their original statement of faith they have veered. I would encourage all of my dispensational friends to come and see what Baptist eschatology looked like before the likes of Darby and Scofield salted the well. Outstanding! Top notch! Highly recommended. If you don't purchase the book at least grab a Kindle (e-book) version. For less than $10 it is a steal.

[A.S. Ember · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not only is this tome mind-numbingly long, painfully a product of its time and terribly outdated, incredibly niche, and dry as moondust, it’s also just an awful read. Ugh, gross. Also, who has the gall to believe in an all-powerful being and then turn around and say declaratively, “God absolutely cannot do this and that thing, in order for them to work within my own human logic”? Sheesh.

[Danieltituscom · Rating 4 out of 5]

The importance of this systematic theology cannot be overstated. Its poignancy and relevance are enduring. Especially check out his section on the atonement. As crucial as this work is, it is by no means my favorite systematic theology, and I would easily recommend others before this one.

[G Walker · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you had a gun to your head, and you "had" to read a systematic theology in the baptistic tradition. This would be THE one. Better than Grudem or anyone else in the tradition of Calvinistic Baptists. Truly, there are a lot of good and edifying things to be found in here...

[Mac · Rating 3 out of 5]

Written in the 1800's, it is not the easiest read, but a great reference book as one work's through doctrines along with the Bible and other theological works.

[Sean McGowan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great!

[Michaelpatrick Keena · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has to be one the best handbooks of Biblical Theology produced by Baptists. A must!

[Jay Risner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great.