Church History Figures to be Studied: Part 2

by R.A. Miller
Published August 2nd, 2022

I asked several church history professors and lecturers this question (technically, it is two questions): In your opinion, what figure from church history should be studied more than they currently are? And why?

The following response is from Christian from Christian's Colloquy, a YouTube channel with very informative interviews and other videos centering around the theology and history of the church. You can find his channel here. His response to my question was this:

William Cowper (1731-1800)
William Cowper ought to be read and celebrated as one of the great poets of Christianity. His hymnody, which is contained within the Olney Hymns, beautifully captured the robust evangelical spirituality of the eighteenth century; namely, its love of Scripture and gospel zeal. Alongside his dear friend and pastor, John Newton, Cowper exemplified evangelical opposition to social injustices, most notably, slavery and the slave trade in the British Empire. His intense struggle with depression also serves as a powerful reminder of the realities of mental health, and how they can intersect with a Christian's life, faith, and ministry.

I’d like to thank Christian for his response. Be sure to check out his YouTube channel!