Ezra was a researcher of the Scripture and a teacher of the Law, laying a foundation for and expounding upon religious life for God’s people during his time. In our own time, scholars like Ezra are those who have been called to be theologians. Many distinguished theologians throughout Christian history have excelled at expounding on the Bible and Christian doctrine. Here are five of the most important historical theologians.
1. ATHANASIUS OF ALEXANDRIA (298-373) Athanasius was a staunch defender of the theology of the Trinity, continually opposing the heresy of Arius, which taught that Jesus was just a supreme creation. Much of our understanding of the doctrine of the Trinity stems from his efforts. He was also the first to identify the 27 books of the New Testament.
Famous quote: “If the world is against the truth, then I am against the world.” (Source: On the Incarnation)
2. AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO (354-430) Augustine taught about original sin and God’s grace, proposing a distinction between the “visible church” and the “invisible church.”
Famous quote: “If you believe what you like in the Gospel, and reject what you don’t like, it is not the Gospel you believe, but yourself.” (Source: Sermons)
3. JOHN CALVIN (1509-1564) Calvin emphasized Jesus’ atoning death and pioneered the use of the Bible to explain the Bible. He is especially known for his articulation of the doctrine of predestination, encapsulated in the acronym TULIP (Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, Perseverance of the Saints), which asserts that those who are truly saved will not lose their salvation. His work, “Institutes of the Christian Religion” (1560), remains a significant text for Christians today.
Famous quote: “We should ask God to increase our hope when it is small, awaken it when it is dormant, confirm it when it is wavering, strengthen it when it is weak, and raise it up when it is overthrown.” (Source: Institutes of the Christian Religion)
4. JONATHAN EDWARDS (1703-1758) Edwards was a key figure in the First Great Awakening and played a significant role in the revival movement. He was a Calvinist theologian deeply influenced by Puritanism.
Famous quote: “Resolution One: I will live for God. Resolution Two: If no one else does, I will still.” (Source: Resolutions)
5. MARTIN LUTHER (1483-1546) Martin Luther left a profound mark on the theological foundation of the Reformation, helping to bring the Church back to the Bible. His key principles included Scripture alone, faith alone, grace alone, Jesus Christ alone, and to the glory of God alone.
Famous quote: “Here I stand; I can do no other.” (Source: Luther’s declaration at the Diet of Worms, 1521)
