Discover one of the earliest systematic theologies penned by a Reformed Baptist—a timeless treasure from 1657 combining robust doctrine with heartfelt pastoral wisdom. Robert Purnell (1606–1666), a Puritan-era Particular Baptist pastor whose voice echoes the clarity and devotion of Thomas Watson, completed this work to equip believers with biblical truths that transcend controversy and endure across centuries. A Body of Doctrinal and Practical Divinity is rich in Scripture, experiential insight, and practical application for personal study, family worship, or congregational teaching.
In light of the love and devotion given by Purnell to this work, Free Grace Press has sought to not only introduce readers to a classic in systematic theology but also to preserve these truths for generations to come.
This edition features an introduction by renowned historian, Dr. Michael A. G. Haykin. Spanning the grand sweep of Christian truth, Purnell's work unfolds in seven major sections:
- God
- Creation and Man
- The Covenant of Grace
- Salvation
- The Church
- The Christian Life
- Last Things
440 pages.
Endorsements
I am delighted to see the reprinting of this outstanding systematic theology by Robert Purnell. Profoundly comprehensive yet commendably concise, it serves as an invaluable resource for both pastors and people in the pews. Unequivocally Christ-centered and firmly covenantal, this work draws deeply from the wellsprings of Reformed theology. It is warmly pastoral, deeply practical, and written in a remarkably lucid style. This volume will be a constant companion. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
—Rob Ventura
Pastor of Grace Community Baptist Church, North Providence, RI
Author of Expository Outlines & Observations on Romans
and co-author of A Portrait of Paul and Spiritual Warfare
This present work of Purnell, which is here appropriately renamed A Body of Doctrinal and Practical Divinity, is by far his largest and his most systematic book. Penned in a time of controversy, it rises above this storm and provides the believer then and now with rich biblical truths that will ever stand the test of time. It has a catechetical feel to it and would serve well as a catechism for personal, family, or even congregational study. May the Lord, whom Robert Purnell faithfully served in his day, use it for the eternal good of all who peruse its pages is the prayer of this author.
—Michael Haykin
Professor of Church History and Biblical Spirituality, SBTS
Purnell’s A Body of Doctrinal and Practical Divinity is immensely helpful, theological, and devotional. The chapters on grace are especially sweet. Since the chapters are concise and to the point, this book could easily serve as a Sunday school or Bible study text or even be used in family worship. I look forward to this heartwarming book being used greatly to spread God’s truth.
—Brian Borgman
Founding Pastor, Grace Community Church, Minden, NV
Author, Don't Waste Your Breath
Purnell’s readable outline challenges some of my own perspectives, and in the way I like it, with lots of Bible explanations and texts to ponder. I also like it because he writes plainly, without pretentious theological jargon, without which the Apostle Paul also got along quite well. This book has true historical significance, which on its own, makes it valuable as we examine the arteries of the beliefs of our theological progenitors. It feels fresh and to the point, like he’s dealing with the Scripture and not other theologians. Enjoy.
—Jim Elliff
Founding Director, Christian Communicators Worldwide
Pastor, Christ Fellowship, Kansas City
I remember back in the early 1980s when John L. Dagg's Manual of Theology and Church Order was published, representing "the first full system of theology prepared by a Baptist in America." I read it as a seminarian with great interest and delight. But now, decades later, with even greater interest and delight, I've been able to take up "the first Baptist systematic theology ever produced," in Robert Purnell's A Body of Doctrinal and Practical Divinity. He's doctrinally profound, distinctly Baptist, and pastorally warm, as here on assurance: "Those who walk most closely with God are often most troubled by their sins and yet they are the ones most tenderly loved of Him." You want Purnell's "Little Cabinet" within your reach.
—Mark Chanski
Coordinator, Reformed Baptist Network
Professor of Hermeneutics at Reformed Baptist Seminary
Pastor Emeritus, Harbor Church of Holland, MI
Body of Doctrinal and Practical Divinity from 1657, A is in the following collections:
