# The Reformed reading library

Read the writers behind the arguments. Explore historic theology, biblical exposition and the defense of the Christian faith, with an identified text and a useful place to begin.

A substantial starting collection of influential writers, not a ranking or a complete canon. It includes the wider Calvinist evangelical tradition: Continental Reformed, Presbyterian, Congregational, Baptist and Anglican authors. Their differences remain visible; Scripture is the final authority and the site’s guides retain their Westminster basis.

Public domain refers here to the identified historic text in the United States. Modern translations, introductions and digital files can carry separate rights. Open a reading link to use the host’s edition; the catalogue download contains metadata, not the books.

Publication fingerprint: c1a79edb6bb89ef53cbee4dd2dd2de02c05fcb05c1619ce9033f403afd709cd8

## Institutes of the Christian Religion

**John Calvin** · reformation · advanced

A broad account of knowing God, the work of Christ, receiving grace and the life of the church.

Start here: Begin with Book I on knowing God; pair Book III.11 with the justification study.

Reading note: Do not treat later introductions or modern English translations as part of the public-domain text.

### Henry Beveridge translation, 1845

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes/)

United States: Beveridge’s historic translation only; the later John Murray introduction is excluded.

The identified 1845 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace) · [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture)

## A Golden Chain

**William Perkins** · reformation · intermediate

A compact, interconnected presentation of theology and the order of salvation.

Start here: Read the outline alongside the study on election and responsibility.

Reading note: Early spelling and microfilm quality make this a slower read.

### 1591 English edition · microfilm scan

en · complete

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/bim_early-english-books-1475-1640_a-golden-chaine-_perkins-william_1591)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1591 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [If God chooses, do our choices and witness matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/election)

## Of the Mortification of Sin in Believers

**John Owen** · post-reformation · intermediate

Owen examines the believer’s fight against sin through the Spirit.

Start here: Begin with the opening exposition of Romans 8:13.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/owen/mort)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## Of Communion with God

**John Owen** · post-reformation · advanced

Communion with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit considered in the Christian life.

Start here: Read the opening account of fellowship with God before the distinct treatments of Father, Son and Spirit.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/owen/communion/communion)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [How can Christians defend the Trinity to a Muslim neighbour?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/islam-trinity) · [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed)

## The Doctrine of Justification by Faith

**John Owen** · post-reformation · advanced

An extended defense of justification and the imputation of Christ’s righteousness.

Start here: Use the contents to locate faith and imputation, then follow Owen’s biblical arguments.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/owen/just/just)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## The Death of Death in the Death of Christ

**John Owen** · post-reformation · advanced

A sustained argument about the purpose and accomplishment of Christ’s death.

Start here: Read Book I on the aim of the atonement before testing the objections.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/owen/deathofdeath/deathofdeath)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [Why would forgiveness involve the cross?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/cross) · [If God chooses, do our choices and witness matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/election)

## The Glory of Christ

**John Owen** · post-reformation · advanced

Meditations on Christ’s person, mediation and glory.

Start here: Begin with the opening treatment of beholding Christ by faith.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/owen/glory/glory)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [Was Jesus simply a great teacher?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/jesus) · [How can Christians defend the Trinity to a Muslim neighbour?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/islam-trinity)

## The Bruised Reed

**Richard Sibbes** · post-reformation · introductory

A pastoral treatment of Christ’s care for bruised and struggling believers.

Start here: Start with the opening exposition of the bruised reed and smoking flax.

### William Pickering English edition, 1838

en · complete

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/bwb_C0-AVW-616)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1838 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [Can a struggling Christian have assurance of salvation?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/assurance)

## A Body of Divinity

**Thomas Watson** · post-reformation · introductory

Doctrinal teaching arranged around the Westminster Shorter Catechism.

Start here: Begin with the chief end of man, then the sections on Scripture and God.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/watson/divinity.html)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed)

## The Art of Divine Contentment

**Thomas Watson** · post-reformation · introductory

A pastoral exposition of contentment from Philippians 4:11.

Start here: Read the opening exposition, then the reasons for learning contentment.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/watson/contentment/contentment)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [How can a good God allow suffering?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/suffering)

## The Lord’s Prayer

**Thomas Watson** · post-reformation · introductory

An exposition of the petitions Jesus taught his disciples to pray.

Start here: Begin with Our Father and the first petition.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/watson/prayer/prayer)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed)

## The Ten Commandments

**Thomas Watson** · post-reformation · introductory

An exposition of God’s moral law and its application to Christian life.

Start here: Read the opening treatment of obedience alongside the grace study.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/watson/commandments/commandments)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [Can we be good without believing in God?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/morality) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## The Fountain of Life Opened

**John Flavel** · post-reformation · intermediate

A series of sermons on Christ’s person and saving work.

Start here: Begin with the opening sermon on knowing Christ crucified.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/flavel/fountain/fountain)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [Why would forgiveness involve the cross?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/cross) · [Was Jesus simply a great teacher?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/jesus)

## Keeping the Heart (A Saint Indeed)

**John Flavel** · post-reformation · intermediate

A treatment of Proverbs 4:23 across the changing circumstances of life.

Start here: Read the explanation of keeping the heart, then the circumstances that meet your concern.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/flavel/saintindeed/saintindeed)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace) · [Can a struggling Christian have assurance of salvation?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/assurance)

## The Works of Thomas Goodwin

**Thomas Goodwin** · post-reformation · advanced

Collected Puritan exposition and theology; this holding opens the first volume.

Start here: Use the volume’s contents to choose a complete exposition.

Reading note: One volume is linked here; this is not a complete twelve-volume collection.

### Volume 1 · James Nichol edition, 1861

en · excerpt

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/theworksofthomas01gooduoft)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1861 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## The Crook in the Lot

**Thomas Boston** · eighteenth-century · intermediate

A pastoral consideration of affliction, humility and God’s providence.

Start here: Begin with the exposition of Ecclesiastes 7:13.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/boston/crook/crook)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [How can a good God allow suffering?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/suffering) · [Can a struggling Christian have assurance of salvation?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/assurance)

## Freedom of the Will

**Jonathan Edwards** · eighteenth-century · advanced

An argument about choice, moral inability and responsibility.

Start here: Start with Part I’s definitions before evaluating the argument.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/edwards/will.html)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [If God chooses, do our choices and witness matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/election)

## Religious Affections

**Jonathan Edwards** · eighteenth-century · intermediate

An examination of religious experience and the marks of genuine Christian affection.

Start here: Follow the distinction between experiences that do not settle the question and signs of gracious affection.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/edwards/affections/affections)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [Can a struggling Christian have assurance of salvation?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/assurance)

## Sermons on Important Subjects

**George Whitefield** · eighteenth-century · intermediate

A historic collection of Whitefield’s preaching on conversion and the Christian life.

Start here: Use the contents to find the sermons on the new birth.

Reading note: A selected historic collection, not a claim to contain every sermon Whitefield preached.

### H. Fisher and P. Jackson collection, 1830

en · complete

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/sermonsonimport00whitgoog)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1830 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [If God chooses, do our choices and witness matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/election) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## Cardiphonia

**John Newton** · eighteenth-century · intermediate

Pastoral counsel in letters about faith and the life of the heart.

Start here: Choose a complete letter and read the surrounding correspondence for context.

Reading note: The host describes a two-volume edition; this link is one digitized holding, not a verified complete set.

### J. Johnson edition, 1807 · volume scan

en · unknown

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/cardiphoniaorut00russgoog)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1807 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [Can a struggling Christian have assurance of salvation?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/assurance) · [How do we defend the faith without becoming combative?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/conversation)

## All of Grace

**Charles Haddon Spurgeon** · nineteenth-century · introductory

A direct invitation to rest in Christ and his freely given salvation.

Start here: Begin with the opening appeal and the chapter on God justifying the ungodly.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/spurgeon/grace/grace)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## Commenting and Commentaries

**Charles Haddon Spurgeon** · nineteenth-century · intermediate

Lectures on using commentaries followed by a historic survey of biblical exposition.

Start here: Read the lectures before using the book-by-book recommendations.

Reading note: This is a nineteenth-century bibliography; its editions and assessments need historical context.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/spurgeon/comment/comment)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture) · [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed)

## Morning and Evening

**Charles Haddon Spurgeon** · nineteenth-century · introductory

Daily meditations built around passages of Scripture.

Start here: Read a meditation with its cited passage open in context.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/spurgeon/morneve/morneve)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## Holiness

**J. C. Ryle** · nineteenth-century · introductory

An evangelical Anglican treatment of sin, sanctification and the pursuit of holiness.

Start here: Begin with the chapters on sin and sanctification before the practical applications.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/ryle/holiness/holiness)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace) · [Can a struggling Christian have assurance of salvation?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/assurance)

## Expository Thoughts on Matthew

**J. C. Ryle** · nineteenth-century · intermediate

Passage-by-passage pastoral exposition of Matthew’s Gospel.

Start here: Open the biblical passage first, then read the corresponding exposition.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/ryle/matthew/matthew)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [Was Jesus simply a great teacher?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/jesus) · [Does the resurrection really matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/resurrection)

## Systematic Theology

**Charles Hodge** · nineteenth-century · advanced

Princeton’s three-volume treatment of theology, humanity, salvation and the church.

Start here: Begin with the introduction on theological method and the treatment of Scripture.

### Volume I · historic English text

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/hodge/theology1.html)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

### Volume II · historic English text

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/hodge/theology2.html)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

### Volume III · historic English text

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/hodge/theology3.html)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## What Is Darwinism?

**Charles Hodge** · nineteenth-century · intermediate

A primary record of Hodge’s nineteenth-century argument about Darwinism and design.

Start here: Read for the definition of the view Hodge is criticizing.

Reading note: Historical apologetics, not an up-to-date account of biology or a verdict on every form of evolutionary theory.

### Historic English text · Project Gutenberg 19192

en · complete

[Read at Project Gutenberg](https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/19192)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [Has science made God unnecessary?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/science)

## The Plan of Salvation

**B. B. Warfield** · twentieth-century · intermediate

Five lectures comparing accounts of salvation and presenting Warfield’s Calvinistic argument.

Start here: Begin with The Differing Conceptions before the final lecture on Calvinism.

### Princeton lectures · Philadelphia edition, 1915

en · complete

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/planofsalvation00warf)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1915 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [If God chooses, do our choices and witness matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/election) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## The Philosophy of Revelation

**Herman Bavinck** · twentieth-century · advanced

Stone Lectures relating revelation to philosophy, nature, history, religion and Christianity.

Start here: Start with the first lecture on philosophy and revelation.

### Historic English Stone Lectures, 1908–1909

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/bavinck/revelation.html)

United States: Historic English lecture text only; modern translations and editorial additions are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture) · [Does the Trinity mean three gods?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/god) · [Has science made God unnecessary?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/science)

## The Teaching of Jesus Concerning the Kingdom of God and the Church

**Geerhardus Vos** · twentieth-century · intermediate

An early biblical-theological study of Jesus’ teaching about the kingdom and the church.

Start here: Follow the opening account of Jesus’ ministry into the kingdom chapters.

### American Tract Society edition, 1903

en · complete

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/theteachingofjes00vosuoft)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1903 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [How does covenant theology connect the whole Bible?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/covenant) · [Was Jesus simply a great teacher?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/jesus)

## What Is Catechism?

**Zacharias Ursinus** · reformation · introductory

The prolegomena from Ursinus’s Heidelberg Catechism commentary, explaining the purpose and structure of catechesis.

Start here: Begin with the distinction between law and gospel and the catechism’s order.

Reading note: This is the introductory excerpt, not the complete Heidelberg commentary.

### Commentary prolegomena · English excerpt

en · excerpt

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/ursinus/catechism/catechism.i.html)

United States: The linked electronic preface explicitly permits free copying and distribution.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## The Decades

**Heinrich Bullinger** · reformation · intermediate

Bullinger’s doctrinal sermons in a historic English edition.

Start here: Use the volume contents to locate a complete sermon and its Scripture references.

Reading note: A single volume scan is linked; the full five decades are not claimed as a complete holding.

### Parker Society English edition, 1850 · volume scan

en · excerpt

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/decadeshenrybul06britgoog)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1850 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed)

## A Treatise on Prayer

**John Knox** · reformation · introductory

An early Reformation treatment of prayer, faith and approaching God through Christ.

Start here: Read the short treatise from its opening account of true prayer.

Reading note: The historic work is public domain; the precise modernization of this online transcription has not been established.

### Historic English text · first published 1554

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/knox/prayer)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed)

## Institutes of Elenctic Theology

**Francis Turretin** · post-reformation · advanced

A scholastic treatment of doctrinal questions, objections and distinctions in the Reformed tradition.

Start here: For readers of Latin: begin with the questions on theology and Scripture.

Reading note: Latin, not the modern Giger/Dennison English translation. One volume scan, not a complete three-volume set.

### Institutio theologiae elencticae · Latin volume, 1847

la · excerpt

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/institutiotheol00turrgoog)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1847 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture)

## The Economy of the Covenants Between God and Man

**Herman Witsius** · post-reformation · advanced

A sustained historic treatment of the covenants and the saving work of Christ.

Start here: Begin with Book I’s definition of covenant; compare Book II on the covenant of grace.

Reading note: Volume 1 is linked. This is not a modern translation or a claim that both volumes have been checked.

### Historic English translation · volume 1, 1803

en · excerpt

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/economycovenant01witsgoog)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1803 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [How does covenant theology connect the whole Bible?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/covenant)

## The Marrow of Sacred Divinity

**William Ames** · post-reformation · advanced

A concise Puritan arrangement of theology around faith and obedience.

Start here: Begin with the definition of theology, then follow the division into faith and observance.

Reading note: The catalogue notes a handwritten imprint date. This is the early English translation, not the modern Eusden translation.

### Early English edition · Princeton scan, catalogued 1639

en · complete

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/marrowsacdi00ames)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1639 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## Discourses upon the Existence and Attributes of God

**Stephen Charnock** · post-reformation · advanced

Doctrinal sermons developing the knowledge of God and the implications of his attributes.

Start here: Use the table of contents to choose a complete discourse.

Reading note: The catalogue describes two volumes; this particular holding has not been verified as the complete set.

### Presbyterian Board edition, 1840 · volume scan

en · unknown

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/discoursesupone00publgoog)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1840 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [Does the Trinity mean three gods?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/god) · [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed)

## The Word, the Instrument of Regeneration

**Stephen Charnock** · post-reformation · intermediate

An exposition of the Word’s role in the new birth from James 1:18.

Start here: Read the opening biblical exposition before the doctrinal applications.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/charnock/instr_regen.html)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [If God chooses, do our choices and witness matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/election) · [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture)

## A Body of Doctrinal Divinity

**John Gill** · eighteenth-century · advanced

A Calvinistic Baptist system of doctrine from the knowledge of God to salvation and final things.

Start here: Begin with the divine authority of Scripture and the doctrine of God.

Reading note: Baptist covenant and church conclusions should be compared explicitly with the site’s Westminster basis.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/gill/doctrinal/doctrinal)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [If God chooses, do our choices and witness matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/election)

## A Body of Practical Divinity

**John Gill** · eighteenth-century · advanced

A Calvinistic Baptist account of inward, public and private worship.

Start here: Begin with the nature of worship; compare the sacramental sections with the historic confessions.

Reading note: Its Baptist account of baptism differs from Westminster’s infant-baptism teaching.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/gill/practical/practical)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## Lectures on Calvinism

**Abraham Kuyper** · nineteenth-century · intermediate

Six Stone Lectures on Calvinism in religion, politics, science, art and public life.

Start here: Begin with Calvinism as a life system, then test each application against Scripture.

Reading note: Historical cultural and political judgments are not the site’s doctrinal standard.

### Calvinism: Six Stone Lectures · historic English text

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/kuyper/lecture.html)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [Has science made God unnecessary?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/science)

## Christianity and Liberalism

**J. Gresham Machen** · twentieth-century · introductory

An argument that the gospel’s historical and doctrinal claims cannot be replaced by religious sentiment.

Start here: Start with Doctrine, then read the chapters on Christ and salvation.

### Macmillan text, 1923 · electronic edition

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://www.ccel.org/m/machen/liberalism/home.html)

United States: Historic text and the linked electronic edition explicitly released for copying; minor spelling modernization is disclosed.

The identified 1923 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [Was Jesus simply a great teacher?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/jesus) · [If salvation is a gift, why do good works matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/grace)

## Outlines of Theology

**A. A. Hodge** · nineteenth-century · intermediate

Theology organized as questions and answers for sustained study.

Start here: Begin with the introduction and Scripture questions; follow the cross-references.

### Thomas Nelson edition, 1877

en · complete

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/outlinesoftheolo00hodguoft)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1877 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [What is Reformed theology, and why does it matter for apologetics?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/reformed) · [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture)

## Evidences of the Christian Religion

**Archibald Alexander** · nineteenth-century · intermediate

A historic Princeton presentation of reasons for Christian belief.

Start here: Begin with the method and evidence chapters, distinguishing historical arguments from current research.

Reading note: Historic apologetic evidence should be supplemented with current manuscript and historical research.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/alexander_a/evidences.html)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [Does the resurrection really matter?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/resurrection) · [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture)

## The Canon of the Old and New Testaments Ascertained

**Archibald Alexander** · nineteenth-century · intermediate

A historical defense of the reception and extent of the biblical canon.

Start here: Read the criteria for canonicity before the book-specific discussions.

Reading note: Later manuscript discoveries and current scholarship require separate evaluation.

### Historic English text at CCEL

en · complete

[Read at Christian Classics Ethereal Library](https://ccel.org/ccel/alexander_a/canon.html)

United States: Historic author’s English text only; website descriptions, modern introductions and downloadable-file packaging are excluded.

The identified historic text predates 1931. The linked host identifies the author and work; modern additions and file packaging are not included in this assessment.

Related guides: [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture)

## New Testament Introduction

**Louis Berkhof** · twentieth-century · intermediate

An early study of the authorship, setting and purpose of New Testament books.

Start here: Begin with the general introduction, then a book you are currently reading.

Reading note: This early work qualifies in the United States; Berkhof’s later Systematic Theology is not included under the pre-1931 rule.

### Eerdmans-Sevensma edition, 1915

en · complete

[Read at Internet Archive historic scans](https://archive.org/details/newtestamentintr00berk)

United States: Text of the identified historic printed edition; no claim about newly added material.

The identified 1915 printed text predates 1931. U.S. copyright duration is the basis; this is not a worldwide rights determination.

Related guides: [What does it mean to say the Bible is trustworthy?](https://bibleguide.io/apologetics/study/scripture)