White Horse Inn Ranking 50 of the Best and Worst Theologians in Church History
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Nov 30, 2025 Join a lively ranking game as theologians from church history are assessed. Explore Kierkegaard's contributions and debate the legacies of figures like Schleiermacher and Wycliffe. Unearth the high marks for early Christian thinkers like Maximus and Basil while facing the challenges posed by modern philosophers Hegel and Kant. The hosts evaluate prominent figures like Calvin and Wesley, celebrating the impact of Augustine and Luther, and offer critiques on others. A mix of humor and insight awaits as they navigate this theological tier list!
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Tiered Ranking Frames The Debate
- The hosts use a tiered “S–F” system to rank theologians by theological significance and orthodoxy rather than popularity.
- This framing shapes quick judgments and provokes debate about influence versus doctrinal fidelity.
Kierkegaard Valued For Law-and-Gospel Shift
- Soren Kierkegaard earned a mid-high placement for his evangelical turn away from Hegelianism and critique of pietism.
- Hosts value his law-and-gospel emphasis and critique of inauthenticity despite disagreements.
Sacramental Views Affect Rankings
- The panel emphasizes sacramental views when grading Reformation figures, moving Vermigli down from S to C for perceived sacramental problems.
- They note Calvin drew from Vermigli, complicating simple dismissals.
