FORT WORTH, Texas — Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary honored James Leo Garrett Jr. during a chapel service March 11 for his newly released book “Baptist Theology: A Four-Century Study.”
Garrett considers the book a career-long project. “It began in a small elective course here on this campus in the fall of 1950,” Garrett said, adding, “but the real work began in retirement. I want to say that no book of this kind could ever be written without tremendous help, and I stand on the shoulders of others.”
“It is a remarkable achievement,” said Southwestern president Paige Patterson.
The book presents the history of Baptist doctrinal beliefs through primary sources, confessions and teachings of major theologians, as well as an examination of principal theological movements and controversies. Garrett also rejects the notion that Baptists have historically contributed little to theology. Garrett has authored, co-authored, edited and co-edited more than 130 published works, including a thesis, two dissertations, scholarly articles and books.
Garrett earned two degrees at Southwestern Seminary, a master of theology degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and a doctorate from Harvard University. He first served on the faculty at Southwestern Seminary from 1949 to 1959. After teaching on two other faculties of theology and religion, he returned to Southwestern in 1979, becoming a distinguished professor in 1991. Since his retirement in 1997, he has held emeritus status.
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