🕮 Jan R. Putnam, MDiv Theology, BA Philosophy
Ecclesiastical Historian · Revival Scholar · Author
Jan R. Putnam is an American theologian, revival historian, and ecumenical voice known for his comprehensive work on Christian unity, pneumatology, and the historical development of doctrinal truth across the centuries. With a firm commitment to the authority of Scripture—including both canonical and apocryphal texts—Putnam brings a unique lens to the interplay between church tradition, biblical fidelity, and modern spiritual renewal.
Educated in the Wesleyan tradition and deeply influenced by the charismatic and Pentecostal awakenings of the 20th century, Putnam’s early pastoral career in the United Methodist Church was marked by remarkable congregational growth, spiritual revival, and bold theological engagement. His advocacy for healing in the atonement and biblical supernaturalism—though controversial—sparked regional revivals and drew both criticism and deep respect from diverse church leaders.
Putnam’s most ambitious project to date is “Twenty Centuries of Church Reformation”, a scholarly yet accessible exploration of the church’s development from the first century through the present day. The work surveys twelve voices per century, examining scriptural fidelity, heresies confronted, reform movements, and the evolving tension between institutional power and spiritual authenticity. The series integrates patristic, medieval, Reformation, and modern voices—with extensive citation of early church fathers, conciliar documents, Protestant reformers, and contemporary theologians.
His writing is marked by a deep respect for all branches of Christianity—Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Protestant, and independent—and his call to unity echoes Jesus’ prayer in John 17. While unflinching in exposing error and heresy, Putnam affirms that the Church’s ultimate calling is to truth, holiness, and love under the headship of Christ.
🔍 Research Interests
- Church unity and schism (East/West divide, Reformation fallout, modern ecumenism)
- Pneumatology: The Holy Spirit across historical and theological contexts
- Healing in the atonement: Biblical, historical, and theological perspectives
- Revival movements (1st–21st century)
- Canonical and Apocryphal scriptures in doctrinal development
- Historical case studies of heresy and orthodoxy
📚 Notable Works
- Twenty Centuries of Church Reformation (in progress)
- A Revival in Oak Cliff (memoir & case study)
- Healing and the Cross: A 60-Minute Dialogue
- Contributions to global dialogues on charismatic renewal and biblical authority
🌐 Online Presence
- Website: janrputnam.org
- Facebook · X (Twitter) · Instagram · YouTube
- Languages: English, Latin, Italian (translations underway)
© 2025 Jan R. Putnam. All rights reserved.
Jan R Putnam info 