The Religious Life of Theological Students (B. B. Warfield)

The Religious Life of Theological Students

“Before and above being learned, a minister must be godly. Nothing could be more fatal, however, than to set these two things against one another. Recruiting officers do not dispute whether it is better for soldiers to have a right leg or a left leg: soldiers should have both legs … in your case there can be no ‘either – or’ here – either a student or a man of God. You must be both.”  — B. B. Warfield

Warfield’s The Religious Life of Theological Students is a classic that shows the importance, for those preparing for the ministry, to grow both as scholars and in the holiness of their walk with God. Originally delivered as an address at the Autumn Conference at Princeton Theological Seminary, October 4, 1911.   It has been reprinted in this present form after the suggestion was made by members of the administration at several theological seminaries.

This is one of 59 articles contained in the volumes known as The Selected Shorter Writings of Benjamin B. Warfield, edited by John E. Meeter.

Review

“Warfield does a wonderful job in this book explaining the absurdities of the thought that theological studies and holy personal religious practice must be separate. He expounds on the necessity for both and how theological study is that religious practice if a student would set his heart, as well as his mind, to his books. Anyone considering a ministerial profession ought to spend some time in these 15 pages.” — Devin

About the Author

Benjamin Breckinridge Warfield (1887–1921) was professor of didactic and polemic theology at the Theological Seminary of Princeton. He was the author of numerous books, including The Inspiration and Authority of the Bible; The Person and Work of Jesus Christ; The Plan of Salvation; Counterfeit Miracles, and several more.