Since their writing in the seventeenth century, the Westminster Standards have been the benchmark for confessing Presbyterian churches the world over. But despite the longstanding influence of the documents, many today count them to be the result of shallow proof-texting, over-systematization of doctrine, logic-chopping, and plain theological ignorance.

These essays by Richard A. Muller and Rowland S. Ward take a fresh look at the Standards in their historical context. The first part of the book investigates the exegetical background to the Confession, and the second explores the issues, priorities, and debates behind the Directory for Public Worship. The resulting volume not only will offer the careful reader a model of how to study historical theological documents, but will also rekindle interest in the Westminster Standards as part of the church's great creedal and confessional tradition.

P&R Publishing, in cooperation with Westminster Seminary's Craig Center for the Study of the Westminster Standards, is pleased to offer this title and series on subjects vital to its cause.

The Authors