Nehemiah Coxe’s: A Vindication of the Truth

A Vindication of the Truth is far more than an ordinary work on Christian doctrine. Originally written by Nehemiah Coxe and endorsed by leading confessional Baptist ministers of the seventeenth century, this book stands as a sterling example of the theological clarity and pastoral courage characteristic of the early Particular Baptists. In an age of theological confusion, Coxe rose to the occasion, publicly refuting the errors and heresies advanced by Thomas Collier and defending orthodox Christology with precision and conviction.

Rich in doctrinal substance, this work engages vital theological matters including the two natures of Christ, the right interpretation of Holy Scripture, election, free will and original sin, justification, and the final judgment. The churches, calling upon Coxe to address these matters, demonstrate the practice of confessional associational life, standing shoulder to shoulder to uphold biblical truth and protect the flock.

This modern edition, expertly edited by Dr James M. Renihan and colleagues, presents Coxe’s vital text with meticulous care. Readers will benefit from a faithful transcription of the original work, alongside helpful notes clarifying Hebrew words, Greek terms, and Latin phrases, ensuring accessibility for today’s audience.

A Vindication of the Truth is both a window into the battles fought by our Baptist forefathers and a call to readiness for those we must face in our own generation. As contemporary churches encounter fresh challenges to biblical orthodoxy, this historic testimony of confessional fidelity and careful doctrinal reasoning remains a powerful resource and an encouragement.

Nehemiah Coxe (1650–1689), the son of Particular Baptist leader Benjamin Coxe, was a significant second-generation minister among baptized congregationalists. Recognized as a “gifted brother” by John Bunyan’s Bedford congregation in 1671, Coxe was called and ordained pastor of London’s Petty France church in 1675. He is widely believed to have played a key role, alongside William Collins, in editing what became known as the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith.

This book informs us of the battles our fathers fought in the past and will prepare us for those we must fight in the future.