Theological Authority in the Church

“This is not a book for bedtime reading. It is a manifesto for a distinctively Protestant account of theological authority. Nemes argues for a ‘low’ church model of tradition that eschews grand metaphysical schemes. Whether readers are delighted or confounded by his arguments, they will find much in this short work that needs to be pondered.”


—Oliver D. Crisp, University of St. Andrews





“In certain theological circles today, a sort of hyper-traditionalism has taken over the minds of different Protestant and Catholic scholars. With everyone so quick to affirm their own preferred tradition that others must submit to, it is rare to find anyone asking if this brand of traditionalism is consistent with the teachings of Jesus. Nemes offers a lucid, rigorous, and provocative argument that such traditionalism is not in fact consistent with the teachings of Christ.”


—Ryan Mullins, Palm Beach Atlantic University





“This slim volume packs a powerful punch. Nemes contends that the essential clarity of Scripture pertains more significantly to its moral and ethical imperatives than it does to speculative metaphysical claims that have often preoccupied the church. Similarly, he argues that ‘traditionalism,’ with its dubious claims to binding authority, must be rejected, even as he defends the essential role of tradition in theology. This book is a frontal challenge not only to Roman Catholics, but also to many Protestants.”


—Jerry Walls, Houston Christian University





“Although I was unconvinced by aspects of his argument, Nemes provides a great service in clearing away some fog and sharpening key issues, exegetical and theological. As such, this book is an invigorating and tightly argued conversation starter. Indeed, I make it a point to read everything this young scholar writes and, despite my remaining disagreements, know of no other book on theological authority that brings into such sharp relief the subject matter so well.”


—Chris Tilling, St Mellitus College