The Sum of Saving Knowledge

by David Dickson and, James Durham, David G. Whitla (Editor)

A Brief Summary of Christian Doctrine Contained in the Holy Scriptures, and Held Forth in the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms, Together with its Practical Use.

Written in 1650 by two pastors to summarize the Westminster Standards for the lay person. So popular was the book, that it was bound with almost every edition of the Westminster Standards for the next three centuries and became a cherished part of the Scottish Reformed literary heritage—though it remains largely unknown today.

This new gift edition, lightly edited and in modernized English, may again make The Sum a treasured companion for Christians at all stages of their journey. It also includes a newly created apparatus to help the reader easily locate specific sections.

Download a Free Study Guide for The Sum of Saving Knowledge from Crown & Covenant Publications.

“...The Sum of Saving Knowledge, the work which I think first wrought a saving change in me. How gladly would I renew the reading of it, if that change might be carried on to perfection!”
— ROBERT MURRAY M’CHEYNE, 19th Century revival preacher, in his diary

“The Sum of Saving Knowledge is one of the documents of the era of the Westminster Assembly held most dear by Presbyterians.…Suitable for families and Bible studies, this new edition with Dr. Whitla’s introduction is a welcome addition to Crown & Covenant’s stellar collection of Reformed and Presbyterian publications.”
—CHAD VAN DIXHOORN, professor of church history, Westminster Theological Seminary

“I heartily recommend this new edition of The Sum of Saving Knowledge; it is great to have an edition of this classic work made available in such an attractive, user-friendly format.”
—REV. RAYMOND BLAIR, lecturer in church history, Reformed Theological College, Belfast

Genres: Theology

78 pages, Hardcover

Published January 17, 2023

Reviews

[Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice little summary of the most important doctrines articulated in the Westminster Standards, along with quite a lot of practical implications. If the language were revised a bit more, it would make a great little book to give to church members, high school students, etc. As it is, it might make for a tough read for a lot of people.

[James Denard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sinclair Ferguson once described the Westminster Confession of Faith as an expression of ‘Catholic Calvinism’. I’d say this delectable companion piece to the Confession serves as an example of Evangelical Calvinism. Boldly is the proclamation of redemption in Christ set forth by these two Covenanters, as well as practical instructions on how the Christian is to proceed in life after being justified by faith. I found myself most edified by the latter half of the book and how the application sections address both believers of weak faith, and believers that are strengthening in faith.
Crown & Covenant also is to be commended for this wonderful edition. The binding and cover are pleasant, and the book has been edited into a format perfectly suited for devotional reading. Perfect stocking-stuffer for all your baby-baptizing brethren!

[Pat Phelps · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a good book. Written by David Dickson and James Durham, both 17th century Scottish ministers.

The “Sum of Saving Knowledge” was originally written as a summary of the Westminster Standards for the laity of the church. As I read the book, it’s main purpose is to share the gospel, in a clear and concise way. This was to do a work in the heart of an unbeliever, to show them their true need for Jesus Christ.

I can envision this book as part of my daily devotions in some form or use.

“Take up and Read” - St. Augustine

[Hammer Shalawylo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible little book walking through the history of God’s dealings with people and the New Adam, Jesus Christ, who is the savior of the world.

This book examines what you need to know of your condition before God and what God has done in Christ, as well as how you ought to respond and live.

Highly recommend. This will be a resource I come back to for years to come.

[Carmen Jimenez · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the intro tells how this text came about, it too is very deep for such a small body of text. I'll have to come back to it and see if I can connect the Westminster standards to the particular sections. Definitely a great summary of saving knowledge and a worthwhile intro to Catechism.

[Megan Baratta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really rich, definitely requires multiple readings.