Westminster Theological Seminary | To Christ, Despite All, We Hold
Source: http://www.wts.edu
Archived: 2026-04-23 16:54
Westminster Theological Seminary | To Christ, Despite All, We Hold
Reformed theological engagement with today’s world, delivered to your inbox.
Thank you for signing up to receive free exclusive content from Westminster. Be on the lookout for fresh content delivered to your inbox.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
TO CHRIST
despite all
WE HOLD
Apply Now
ONLINE
INQUIRE
DONATE
ONLINE
INQUIRE
DONATE
MENU
Academic Study
Degree Programs Overview
On-Campus Degrees
Online Degrees
Global Programs
Faculty
Tools + Resources
Montgomery Library
Center for Theological Writing
Community Life
Student Experience
Student Experience
On-Campus Experience
On-Campus Experience
Online Experience
Online Experience
The Westminster Shoppe
The Westminster Shoppe
Admissions
Admissions Overview
Tuition & Financial Aid
International Students
Visit Westminster
Admissions Resources
Compare Degree Programs
Affiliations
About Westminster
Mission & Values
Integrated Approach
History
Jobs at WTS
Ministry Job Opportunities
Westminster Confession of Faith
1980
Resources
Incoming Students
Current Students
Alumni
Faculty & Staff
Initiatives
Framework: Public Theology from Westminster
Westminster Bookstore
Westminster Seminary Press
Westminster Theological Journal
A Time-Tested Curriculum
In 1929 Westminster’s founder, J. Gresham Machen, vowed that the seminary would not provide training of the “customary superficial kind,” but rather offer profound, Christ-centered preparation. Today, more than 90 years later, we remain faithful to that mission—and it drives our commitment to equip you well through teaching the Whole Counsel of God.
Sign Up for Exclusive Resources
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
00
WTS Distinctives:
COVENANTAL APOLOGETICS
BIBLICAL COUNSELING
REDEMPTIVE-HISTORICAL HERMENEUTICS
BIBLICO-SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY
HISTORical theology
CHRIST-CENTERED PREACHING
Covenantal Apologetics
Learn More
Biblical Counseling
Learn More
Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics
Learn More
Biblico-Systematic Theology
Learn More
Reformed Church History
Learn More
Christ-Centered Preaching
Learn More
OUR DISTINCTIVES
Schedule a Visit
On Campus or Virtually
What I loved about the program is that it was really customizable to what you needed. I could find the pockets of time that worked best for me in my full-time job to be able to study, use online resources, and watch lectures when I needed to. I approached my classes differently because of what I was seeing in my job. I was even more motivated to learn through these courses because I knew it was going to impact what I did the very next day."
Deborah S.,
MATS Student
So far there has not been a class that I did not find spiritually encouraging and enriching on both academic and practical levels. Westminster remains committed to the Orthodox principles laid out in the Westminster Confession of Faith (such as the importance of the inerrancy of Scripture) at the faculty and classroom level at a time when this is uncommon for many Christian seminaries."
John Paul H.,
Mac Student
Invaluable to my experience at WTS is the combined effect of being taught by world-renowned theologians and studying at my pace through the various online platforms. WTS education has equipped me with information and transformed me through the power of the Holy Spirit to biblically and effectively engage people of diverse cultures in the course of disciple-making for Christ.”
OGOCHUKWU O.,
MATS Student
Westminster has brought academic, spiritual, and social growth. While it started with professors and classmates on a screen, it grew to include a Greek study group where friendships budded: one of which bloomed into a marriage! Westminster has helped me to consider how right doctrine, founded on proper interpretation of the Scriptures, is essential for ministry.”
Allison k.,
Mar Student
I started my master’s during COVID. I was pregnant, had a baby, and I was homeschooling my children. So, if I can do it, anybody can really do it. It takes a lot of effort, but they allow you to work at your own pace…What I was learning was so amazing that it didn’t feel like work; it felt like necessary learning for life — how to parent, how to be a wife, and for all areas of life.”
Gabriela C.,
MAc Student
I believe the Lord has used my training at WTS to directly prepare me for this next season of ministry. I have loved the intentional training, mentorship, friendships with classmates and professors, theological conviction, sacrificial spirit, and much more. I'm forever grateful for my DMin experience at WTS!”
RICHARD P.,
DMIN Student
The Old Testament definitely felt like it was relegated for ancient Israel, and then coming to Westminster I felt like I got my Old Testament back. I love the biblical, theological emphasis that everything is pointing to Christ, and I belong to Christ. I'm part of the promise that was given to Abraham, and so is my family...We're grafted in, even as gentiles. The whole Bible is yours–it's not just the gospel, as amazing as that is."
Curtis p.,
MAts Student
During my time at seminary, I have come to know more of the depth of the Lord's love for me, to appreciate the richness of His Word, and to more confidently proclaim the full counsel of God.”
Reagan w.,
MDiv Student
It’s been an amazing privilege to have studied with fellow students of such diverse backgrounds, yet all with a passion for God's Word and for his people. I've been blessed by a deepening understanding of people as saints, sufferers and sinners, and how scripture speaks a personal and redemptive word to each one of us.”
OWEN S.,
MAC Student
Although based in the UK, it's been really encouraging to feel part of the learning community in Pennsylvania with the chance to meet some wonderful godly people.”
CHRISTOPHER R.,
ThM Student
COMPARE DEGREE PROGRAMS
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
Advanced Degrees
CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
Master of Divinity Pastoral Fellows
Master of Divinity in General Ministry
Master of Arts
in Religion
Master of Arts in Counseling
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Korean Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Master of Divinity in Pastoral Ministry
Master of Divinity in General Ministry
Master of Arts
in Religion
Master of Arts in Counseling
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Korean Master of Arts in Theological Studies
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
Credit Hours of Coursework
111
74
60
36
111
74
60
36
Estimated Years to Degree Completion
4
3–8
2–4
3–5
1.5–3
4
3–8
2–4
3–5
1.5–3
Applied Ministry Practicum
Study of Biblical Languages
Residential Mentorship & Pastoral Formation
Doctor of Philosophy
Master of Theology
Doctor of Ministry
Korean Doctor of Ministry
Doctor of Philosophy
Master of Theology
Doctor of Ministry
Korean Doctor of Ministry
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
Number of Courses
10 courses
8 courses
6–8 courses
10 courses
8 courses
6–8 courses
Est. Years to Degree Completion
4–6
1.5–3
4–5
5–6
4–6
1.5–3
4–5
5–6
Competency in Biblical Languages Required
Areas of Focus
2
4
1
2
4
1
Mastering Theological English
Theological Studies Certificates
Mastering Theological English
Theological Studies Certificates
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
Number of Courses
1 course
3 courses
1 course
3 courses
Est. Time to Certificate Completion
15 weeks
1 year
15 weeks
1 year
Credit Transferable to Degree Programs
COMPARE DEGREE PROGRAMS
Our degree programs aim to equip you with the academic and practical tools necessary to sustain you for a lifetime of scholarship or ministry.
Graduate Programs
Advanced Degrees
Certificate programs
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online Only
Master of Divinity Pastoral Fellows
Master of Divinity in General Ministry
Master of Arts
in Religion
Master of Arts in Counseling
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Korean Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Credit Hours of Coursework
111
111
74
61
36
36
Estimated Years to Degree Completion
4
3–8
2–4
3–6
1.5–3
1.5–3
Mentored Practicum
Study of Biblical Languages
Pastoral Residency
Both On-campus & Online
On-campus only
Doctor of Philosophy
Doctor of Ministry
Master of Theology
Korean Doctor of Ministry
Number of Courses
10
8
6–8
8
Est. Years to Degree Complete
4–6
4–5
1.5–3
5–6
Competency in Biblical Languages Required
Areas of Focus
2
4
2
Online only
Theological Studies Certificates
Biblical Languages Certificates
3
3
Number of Courses
1 year
1-2 years
Credit Transferable to Degree Programs
Est. Time to Certificate Completion
SEE ALL DEGREE PROGRAMS
A RICH HISTORY
The story of Westminster began with a bold act of vision. This is still our spirit today.
“But to Christ, despite all, we hold.” These are the words from founder J. Gresham Machen that launched Westminster almost 100 years ago—and they have remained true to Westminster’s conviction ever since.
LEARN ABOUT OUR HISTORY
Apply Now
Westminster would be honored to help equip you for the profound work God is calling you to. Our admissions staff are available to answer any questions you may have.
CONTACT US TO APPLY
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are passionate about equipping you to mine the riches of God’s Word at unparalleled depth. Learn about their areas of expertise and backgrounds.
learn more
Connect
2960 Church Road
Glenside, PA 19038, USA
(215) 887-5511
communications@wts.edu
Non-Discrimination Policy
Diversity Statement
Security & Fire Safety Report
Resources For
Incoming Students
Current Students
Alumni
Faculty & Staff
support@wts.edu
Initiatives
The Craig Center
Westminster Magazine
Westminster Bookstore
Westminster Seminary Press
Westminster Shoppe
Unio cum Christo Journal
© Copyright 2025 Westminster Theological Seminary. All Rights Reserved.
Please Upgrade Your Browser.
Unfortunately, Internet Explorer is an outdated browser and we do not currently support it. To have the best browsing experience, please upgrade to Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Safari.
Upgrade
Play Video
Covenantal Apologetics
Every person on the face of the earth is, by virtue of being created in God’s image, a God-knower and is in a covenant-relationship with his Creator. Therefore, covenantal apologetics is not a formula that starts with human tradition but a probative method of bringing the manifold wisdom of God to the many ways people suppress the truth in unrighteousness. He has revealed this wisdom throughout creation and, more importantly, His Word. Covenantal apologetics exposes the deceitfulness of man-centered wisdom while advancing true wisdom—which is rooted in Christ. (Key Passages: Rom. 1:18–25; 1 Pet. 3:15; Acts 17:22–31).
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"Finding Confidence in Apologetics"
Read:
"Fides Quaerens Intellectum: What Is Presuppositionalism?"
Read:
"Calvin the Apologist"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Biblical Counseling
The Bible is God’s interpretation of humans and gateway to their hope. Biblical counseling offers a theologically cohesive, relationally rich, and Christ-centered understanding for all that humans face and need. Counseling that
walks alongside people with insights seasoned by Christ and his Word
can guide toward the richness and healing power of the gospel. (Key Passages: Jer. 17:9-10; John 2:24–25; 2 Tim. 3:17)
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"Finding True Rest"
Watch:
"Dr. David Powlison on Making Scripture Personal"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics
Each passage in Scripture is best understood in its connection to
God’s one unfolding story
of redemption accomplished by Jesus. Just as the full tree is present in the acorn, so also is the gospel present in the Old Testament in embryonic form. Biblical interpretation is rooted in a rigorous exegesis that reads every text as bearing witness to God’s work in Christ. (Key Passage: Luke 24:44–47)
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"How Is the Theology of the General Epistles Consistent with the Rest of Biblical Theology?"
Read:
"Why Must Christ Obey the Law?"
Read:
"The Eternal Priest"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Biblico-Systematic Theology
Any in-depth study of Scripture
must build from the text itself,
prior to turning to the interpretations of others. Drawing out the meaning of the original language through rigorous exegesis gives a framework for rooting systems of thought not in abstract ideas but in the revelatory self-witness of Scripture, with Christ as its binding center. (Key Passage: 2 Tim. 2:15)
Dig Deeper
Read:
"The Visible Church and Theological Stewardship"
Read:
"God-Worked Sanctification"
Read:
"John Flavel and Union with Christ"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Historical Theology
A thorough study of the church from time past
offers a window into the ongoing story of Christ’s presence
with his people, guiding them in truth. Creeds and confessions, too, help identify a common set of priorities and teachings to foster church unity. From generation to generation, this heritage of history guides the church as its follows Christ into the future. (Key Passages: 2 Tim. 1:13-14; Hebrews 12:1)
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"Westminster Q&A: Creeds & Confessions"
Read:
"The Westminster Assembly and the Reformation of the English Pulpit, 1643–1653"
Read:
"Translating Van Mastricht: An Interview with Dr. Todd Rester"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Christ-Centered Preaching
The centerpiece of Scripture is the work and redemption of Jesus Christ.
Preaching heralds the centrality of Jesus
from the first word of Scripture to the last and applies the gospel to the whole of life. A sermon’s doctrine, application, organization, and delivery must rest upon the proclamation and explication of Jesus Christ and him crucified.” (Key Passages: Luke 24:44–49; Rom. 1:1–4; 1 Cor. 2:2; 1 Pet. 1:10–12)
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"Westminster Q&A: Preaching Christ as the Singer of the Psalms"
Read:
"Christocentric Preaching"
Read:
"The Primacy and Practice of Expository Preaching"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Reformed theological engagement with today’s world, delivered to your inbox.
Thank you for signing up to receive free exclusive content from Westminster. Be on the lookout for fresh content delivered to your inbox.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
TO CHRIST
despite all
WE HOLD
Apply Now
ONLINE
INQUIRE
DONATE
ONLINE
INQUIRE
DONATE
MENU
Academic Study
Degree Programs Overview
On-Campus Degrees
Online Degrees
Global Programs
Faculty
Tools + Resources
Montgomery Library
Center for Theological Writing
Community Life
Student Experience
Student Experience
On-Campus Experience
On-Campus Experience
Online Experience
Online Experience
The Westminster Shoppe
The Westminster Shoppe
Admissions
Admissions Overview
Tuition & Financial Aid
International Students
Visit Westminster
Admissions Resources
Compare Degree Programs
Affiliations
About Westminster
Mission & Values
Integrated Approach
History
Jobs at WTS
Ministry Job Opportunities
Westminster Confession of Faith
1980
Resources
Incoming Students
Current Students
Alumni
Faculty & Staff
Initiatives
Framework: Public Theology from Westminster
Westminster Bookstore
Westminster Seminary Press
Westminster Theological Journal
A Time-Tested Curriculum
In 1929 Westminster’s founder, J. Gresham Machen, vowed that the seminary would not provide training of the “customary superficial kind,” but rather offer profound, Christ-centered preparation. Today, more than 90 years later, we remain faithful to that mission—and it drives our commitment to equip you well through teaching the Whole Counsel of God.
Sign Up for Exclusive Resources
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
00
WTS Distinctives:
COVENANTAL APOLOGETICS
BIBLICAL COUNSELING
REDEMPTIVE-HISTORICAL HERMENEUTICS
BIBLICO-SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY
HISTORical theology
CHRIST-CENTERED PREACHING
Covenantal Apologetics
Learn More
Biblical Counseling
Learn More
Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics
Learn More
Biblico-Systematic Theology
Learn More
Reformed Church History
Learn More
Christ-Centered Preaching
Learn More
OUR DISTINCTIVES
Schedule a Visit
On Campus or Virtually
What I loved about the program is that it was really customizable to what you needed. I could find the pockets of time that worked best for me in my full-time job to be able to study, use online resources, and watch lectures when I needed to. I approached my classes differently because of what I was seeing in my job. I was even more motivated to learn through these courses because I knew it was going to impact what I did the very next day."
Deborah S.,
MATS Student
So far there has not been a class that I did not find spiritually encouraging and enriching on both academic and practical levels. Westminster remains committed to the Orthodox principles laid out in the Westminster Confession of Faith (such as the importance of the inerrancy of Scripture) at the faculty and classroom level at a time when this is uncommon for many Christian seminaries."
John Paul H.,
Mac Student
Invaluable to my experience at WTS is the combined effect of being taught by world-renowned theologians and studying at my pace through the various online platforms. WTS education has equipped me with information and transformed me through the power of the Holy Spirit to biblically and effectively engage people of diverse cultures in the course of disciple-making for Christ.”
OGOCHUKWU O.,
MATS Student
Westminster has brought academic, spiritual, and social growth. While it started with professors and classmates on a screen, it grew to include a Greek study group where friendships budded: one of which bloomed into a marriage! Westminster has helped me to consider how right doctrine, founded on proper interpretation of the Scriptures, is essential for ministry.”
Allison k.,
Mar Student
I started my master’s during COVID. I was pregnant, had a baby, and I was homeschooling my children. So, if I can do it, anybody can really do it. It takes a lot of effort, but they allow you to work at your own pace…What I was learning was so amazing that it didn’t feel like work; it felt like necessary learning for life — how to parent, how to be a wife, and for all areas of life.”
Gabriela C.,
MAc Student
I believe the Lord has used my training at WTS to directly prepare me for this next season of ministry. I have loved the intentional training, mentorship, friendships with classmates and professors, theological conviction, sacrificial spirit, and much more. I'm forever grateful for my DMin experience at WTS!”
RICHARD P.,
DMIN Student
The Old Testament definitely felt like it was relegated for ancient Israel, and then coming to Westminster I felt like I got my Old Testament back. I love the biblical, theological emphasis that everything is pointing to Christ, and I belong to Christ. I'm part of the promise that was given to Abraham, and so is my family...We're grafted in, even as gentiles. The whole Bible is yours–it's not just the gospel, as amazing as that is."
Curtis p.,
MAts Student
During my time at seminary, I have come to know more of the depth of the Lord's love for me, to appreciate the richness of His Word, and to more confidently proclaim the full counsel of God.”
Reagan w.,
MDiv Student
It’s been an amazing privilege to have studied with fellow students of such diverse backgrounds, yet all with a passion for God's Word and for his people. I've been blessed by a deepening understanding of people as saints, sufferers and sinners, and how scripture speaks a personal and redemptive word to each one of us.”
OWEN S.,
MAC Student
Although based in the UK, it's been really encouraging to feel part of the learning community in Pennsylvania with the chance to meet some wonderful godly people.”
CHRISTOPHER R.,
ThM Student
COMPARE DEGREE PROGRAMS
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
Advanced Degrees
CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
Master of Divinity Pastoral Fellows
Master of Divinity in General Ministry
Master of Arts
in Religion
Master of Arts in Counseling
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Korean Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Master of Divinity in Pastoral Ministry
Master of Divinity in General Ministry
Master of Arts
in Religion
Master of Arts in Counseling
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Korean Master of Arts in Theological Studies
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
Credit Hours of Coursework
111
74
60
36
111
74
60
36
Estimated Years to Degree Completion
4
3–8
2–4
3–5
1.5–3
4
3–8
2–4
3–5
1.5–3
Applied Ministry Practicum
Study of Biblical Languages
Residential Mentorship & Pastoral Formation
Doctor of Philosophy
Master of Theology
Doctor of Ministry
Korean Doctor of Ministry
Doctor of Philosophy
Master of Theology
Doctor of Ministry
Korean Doctor of Ministry
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
Number of Courses
10 courses
8 courses
6–8 courses
10 courses
8 courses
6–8 courses
Est. Years to Degree Completion
4–6
1.5–3
4–5
5–6
4–6
1.5–3
4–5
5–6
Competency in Biblical Languages Required
Areas of Focus
2
4
1
2
4
1
Mastering Theological English
Theological Studies Certificates
Mastering Theological English
Theological Studies Certificates
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online only
Number of Courses
1 course
3 courses
1 course
3 courses
Est. Time to Certificate Completion
15 weeks
1 year
15 weeks
1 year
Credit Transferable to Degree Programs
COMPARE DEGREE PROGRAMS
Our degree programs aim to equip you with the academic and practical tools necessary to sustain you for a lifetime of scholarship or ministry.
Graduate Programs
Advanced Degrees
Certificate programs
On-campus only
Both On-campus & Online
online Only
Master of Divinity Pastoral Fellows
Master of Divinity in General Ministry
Master of Arts
in Religion
Master of Arts in Counseling
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Korean Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Credit Hours of Coursework
111
111
74
61
36
36
Estimated Years to Degree Completion
4
3–8
2–4
3–6
1.5–3
1.5–3
Mentored Practicum
Study of Biblical Languages
Pastoral Residency
Both On-campus & Online
On-campus only
Doctor of Philosophy
Doctor of Ministry
Master of Theology
Korean Doctor of Ministry
Number of Courses
10
8
6–8
8
Est. Years to Degree Complete
4–6
4–5
1.5–3
5–6
Competency in Biblical Languages Required
Areas of Focus
2
4
2
Online only
Theological Studies Certificates
Biblical Languages Certificates
3
3
Number of Courses
1 year
1-2 years
Credit Transferable to Degree Programs
Est. Time to Certificate Completion
SEE ALL DEGREE PROGRAMS
A RICH HISTORY
The story of Westminster began with a bold act of vision. This is still our spirit today.
“But to Christ, despite all, we hold.” These are the words from founder J. Gresham Machen that launched Westminster almost 100 years ago—and they have remained true to Westminster’s conviction ever since.
LEARN ABOUT OUR HISTORY
Apply Now
Westminster would be honored to help equip you for the profound work God is calling you to. Our admissions staff are available to answer any questions you may have.
CONTACT US TO APPLY
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are passionate about equipping you to mine the riches of God’s Word at unparalleled depth. Learn about their areas of expertise and backgrounds.
learn more
Connect
2960 Church Road
Glenside, PA 19038, USA
(215) 887-5511
communications@wts.edu
Non-Discrimination Policy
Diversity Statement
Security & Fire Safety Report
Resources For
Incoming Students
Current Students
Alumni
Faculty & Staff
support@wts.edu
Initiatives
The Craig Center
Westminster Magazine
Westminster Bookstore
Westminster Seminary Press
Westminster Shoppe
Unio cum Christo Journal
© Copyright 2025 Westminster Theological Seminary. All Rights Reserved.
Please Upgrade Your Browser.
Unfortunately, Internet Explorer is an outdated browser and we do not currently support it. To have the best browsing experience, please upgrade to Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Safari.
Upgrade
Play Video
Covenantal Apologetics
Every person on the face of the earth is, by virtue of being created in God’s image, a God-knower and is in a covenant-relationship with his Creator. Therefore, covenantal apologetics is not a formula that starts with human tradition but a probative method of bringing the manifold wisdom of God to the many ways people suppress the truth in unrighteousness. He has revealed this wisdom throughout creation and, more importantly, His Word. Covenantal apologetics exposes the deceitfulness of man-centered wisdom while advancing true wisdom—which is rooted in Christ. (Key Passages: Rom. 1:18–25; 1 Pet. 3:15; Acts 17:22–31).
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"Finding Confidence in Apologetics"
Read:
"Fides Quaerens Intellectum: What Is Presuppositionalism?"
Read:
"Calvin the Apologist"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Biblical Counseling
The Bible is God’s interpretation of humans and gateway to their hope. Biblical counseling offers a theologically cohesive, relationally rich, and Christ-centered understanding for all that humans face and need. Counseling that
walks alongside people with insights seasoned by Christ and his Word
can guide toward the richness and healing power of the gospel. (Key Passages: Jer. 17:9-10; John 2:24–25; 2 Tim. 3:17)
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"Finding True Rest"
Watch:
"Dr. David Powlison on Making Scripture Personal"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics
Each passage in Scripture is best understood in its connection to
God’s one unfolding story
of redemption accomplished by Jesus. Just as the full tree is present in the acorn, so also is the gospel present in the Old Testament in embryonic form. Biblical interpretation is rooted in a rigorous exegesis that reads every text as bearing witness to God’s work in Christ. (Key Passage: Luke 24:44–47)
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"How Is the Theology of the General Epistles Consistent with the Rest of Biblical Theology?"
Read:
"Why Must Christ Obey the Law?"
Read:
"The Eternal Priest"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Biblico-Systematic Theology
Any in-depth study of Scripture
must build from the text itself,
prior to turning to the interpretations of others. Drawing out the meaning of the original language through rigorous exegesis gives a framework for rooting systems of thought not in abstract ideas but in the revelatory self-witness of Scripture, with Christ as its binding center. (Key Passage: 2 Tim. 2:15)
Dig Deeper
Read:
"The Visible Church and Theological Stewardship"
Read:
"God-Worked Sanctification"
Read:
"John Flavel and Union with Christ"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Historical Theology
A thorough study of the church from time past
offers a window into the ongoing story of Christ’s presence
with his people, guiding them in truth. Creeds and confessions, too, help identify a common set of priorities and teachings to foster church unity. From generation to generation, this heritage of history guides the church as its follows Christ into the future. (Key Passages: 2 Tim. 1:13-14; Hebrews 12:1)
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"Westminster Q&A: Creeds & Confessions"
Read:
"The Westminster Assembly and the Reformation of the English Pulpit, 1643–1653"
Read:
"Translating Van Mastricht: An Interview with Dr. Todd Rester"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"
Play Video
Christ-Centered Preaching
The centerpiece of Scripture is the work and redemption of Jesus Christ.
Preaching heralds the centrality of Jesus
from the first word of Scripture to the last and applies the gospel to the whole of life. A sermon’s doctrine, application, organization, and delivery must rest upon the proclamation and explication of Jesus Christ and him crucified.” (Key Passages: Luke 24:44–49; Rom. 1:1–4; 1 Cor. 2:2; 1 Pet. 1:10–12)
Dig Deeper
Watch:
"Westminster Q&A: Preaching Christ as the Singer of the Psalms"
Read:
"Christocentric Preaching"
Read:
"The Primacy and Practice of Expository Preaching"
Read:
"Whole Counsel of God"