Resources
Recommended books and study tools for exploring the Reformed Confession and historic Christian theology.
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Reference Books
The Story of Christian Theology
by Roger E. Olson
Roger Olson’s *Twenty Centuries of Tradition & Reform* traces the development of Christian theology from the second-century apostolic fathers through major movements such as the early church councils, the Reformation, and modern theological trends. Central to this narrative is salvation, seen as the unifying theme throughout the diverse theological traditions and reforms.
To Win Our Neighbors for Christ: The Missiology of the Three Forms of Unity
by Wes Bredenhof
A demonstration that the Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, and Canons of Dort carry rich missiological content — challenging the myth that the Reformation lacked missionary vision and calling believers to evangelistic engagement.
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Study Notes
Structure
The Reformed confessional tradition encompasses the Three Forms of Unity (Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, Canons of Dort) and the Westminster Standards (Westminster Confession, Larger and Shorter Catechisms), together covering the full range of Reformed doctrine from soteriology to ecclesiology.
Purpose
Reformed confessions were produced to define and defend the theological distinctives of the Reformed tradition — including Scripture's sole authority, covenant theology, the doctrines of grace, and presbyterian polity — against both Rome and the radical reformation movements of the 16th century.
Usage
Used as doctrinal standards for ordination, church membership, and theological education in Presbyterian and Reformed churches worldwide. Different branches of the Reformed family subscribe to different combinations of these documents depending on their confessional heritage.
Influence
Shaped the theology of Calvin, Beza, Owen, Edwards, Spurgeon, and generations of Reformed theologians, and continues to define the theological identity of the Reformed and Presbyterian family of churches across every inhabited continent today.