The New Hiscox Guide for Baptist Churches

Rating:
Summary: Explains Baptist beliefs and church organization
Review: Dr. Edward Thurston Hiscox (1814-1901) was a distinguished Baptist theologian and author who's Standard Manual for Baptist Churches (published 1890) and New Directory for Baptist Churches (1894) were considered two of the foundational works of the modern Baptist church. In 1964, these books were combined into the Hiscox Guide for Baptist Churches, which has become a classic work in its own right. With the end of the 20th century in sight, it was determined that this book needed to be revised and updated, and for that purpose Dr. Everett C. Goodwin (a well respected Baptist pastor and teacher) was selected to oversee that project.

This book is Dr. Goodwin's revision of the Hiscox Guide, and is divided into eight chapters: 1) the nature of the Church, 2) the membership of the Church, 3) the Church ministry, 4) leaders and officers in the Church, 5) Christian worship, 6) Christian ordinances, rituals and ceremonies, 7) the witness of the Church, and 8) Church order, process and discipline. Following this are seven wonderful appendices that include such things as a Baptist chronology, creeds and confessions, and more.

Overall, I found this to be a great book. It is not a defense of Baptist theology, per se, but instead explains Baptist beliefs and church organization. It is an excellent resource for anyone who wishes to have a clear understanding of Baptist church; what is it and how it operates. I highly recommend this book.