William Cunningham (theologian)

Rev Prof William Cunningham DD (2 October 1805 – 14 December 1861) was a Scottish theologian.

Life

Cunningham was born in Hamilton, Lanarkshire and studied at the University of Edinburgh. He was ordained a minister in the Church of Scotland, but left in the Disruption of 1843 to become one of the founders of the Free Church of Scotland. Cunningham was appointed Professor of Theology at the New College, Edinburgh, before transferring to the chair of Church History in 1845.[1] He succeeded Thomas Chalmers as Principal in 1847 and served in that position until his death.

Cunningham specialised in historical theology, and wrote a two volume work on the subject. He also wrote The Reformers and the Theology of the Reformation. William Garden Blaikie suggests that he was the "ablest defender of Calvinism in his day" and that the "gentleness of his personal character was a striking contrast to his boldness and vehemency in controversy."[2]

The grave of Rev Prof William Cunningham, Grange Cemetery, Edinburgh

He died in Edinburgh and is buried beneath a large sarcophagus-style grave in the Grange Cemetery.

Memorials

A marble bust of Cunningham, sculpted by William Brodie stands in New College in Edinburgh.[3]

His portrait was executed by William Bonnar and is held by the National Gallery of Scotland.[4]

References

  1. ↑ "William Cunningham". Banner of Truth Trust. Retrieved 10 September 2014.
  2. ↑  Blaikie, William Garden (1885–1900). "Cunningham, William (1805-1861)". Dictionary of National Biography. London: Smith, Elder & Co.
  3. ↑ http://orapweb.rcahms.gov.uk/wp/00/WP000421.pdf
  4. ↑ http://www.bbc.co.uk/arts/yourpaintings/artists/william-bonnar/paintings/slideshow#/10

Further reading

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