On March 26 and 27, RBS kicked off the first of five modules for the 1689 Theology Project. Each module consists of 12 fifty-minute lectures on systematic theology using the Second London Baptist Confession as an expository template. In this first module, we focused on the first three chapters of the Confession. Dr. Robert Gonzales gave six lectures on the doctrine of Scripture. Then, Dr. Brian Borgman delivered three lectures on the doctrine of God and three on the divine decree. The expositions of both instructors included a blend of historical theology, exegesis, theological reflection, and practical application. We plan to make lecture excerpts available to the public soon. The module ended with a Q&A session.

Nearly 50 attended the module and 22 utilized the live-streaming option. Attendees come from various parts of California, Nevada, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. We had live-streamers from the USA, Canada, Ireland, Nigeria, Philippines, Singapore, and Nepal. The feedback we received from the participants (those live and those streaming) was overall very positive. Eighty-six percent gave us a 5/5 rating, and ninety percent rated the “depth of content” as “just right.” Most appreciated the slide presentations and detailed lecture notes provided. Here are a few comments from the post-module survey:

“The linking of the 2LBCF to systematic theology was an excellent approach and really developed a deeper understanding. Very much appreciate that approach.”

“The examples of flushing out the meaning in each paragraph. The confession's text is layered with meaning. Breaking this down with scripture as its backing makes the document come to life.”

“I can confidently say that was the most thorough, in depth teaching I’ve ever had the privilege to sit under. It was a lot to process, but I enjoyed every minute. Thank you so much for making me feel so welcomed and loved, being a complete stranger. It was an all-around phenomenal experience, and I hope to make it to future modules!”

We also received some helpful constructive feedback on how to make future modules even better. The Lord willing, we hope to host the second of five modules the last weekend of August. More information forthcoming! (See below for module photos.)

The five courses for the 1689 Theology Project will serve as the heart of a 24-credit Certificate of Reformed Baptist Studies program. Other core courses include the English Particular Baptists and Confessing the Faith. The program is primarily designed for laypeople and foreign pastors who do not have a solid theological education. Local churches could utilize the program for leadership training or internship programs. The Lord willing, the program will launch in August, and we will begin taking applications in mid-April. If you have questions, let us know here.