That’ll Preach Baptists, Tradition, and the Great Retrieval with Ian Clary
May 27, 2025
Ian Clary, a historian and theologian teaching at Colorado Christian University, dives into the complexities of Baptist identity and tradition. He explores the rich connections between Baptists and early church fathers like Augustine and Aquinas. Clary questions whether modern Baptists can embrace this historical depth while retaining their unique identity. Touching on communion practices, church leadership, and the resurgence of liturgical practices, this conversation emphasizes the balance of tradition and contemporary faith. Expect lively discussions on theological retrieval and the evolving nature of church practices.
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Ian Clary's Theological Journey
- Ian Clary's journey from a non-Christian to a Baptist theologian began at 18, influenced by Baptist friends and church life in Canada.
- His deep engagement with Puritanism and church fathers was sparked during seminary under historian Michael Hagen's mentorship.
Baptists and Catholic Tradition
- Baptists are historically a branch of the Reformation and Puritan tradition with organic ties to the broader Christian tradition.
- The contemporary movement of Baptist Catholicity aims to embrace these roots rather than merely adopting them superficially.
English Baptists and Reformed Roots
- Early English Baptists emerged from the Puritan tradition and produced Calvinistic confessions closely resembling Westminster standards.
- The 17th-century Baptists consciously affiliated with the Reformed tradition amidst hostile denominational tensions.
