The book is carefully structured into four parts to provide a comprehensive view of Wesley’s life. The first part, consisting of five chapters, focuses on Wesley himself. Murray details Wesley’s transition from an Oxford academic to an open-air preacher and emphasizes key moments like the transformative Aldersgate experience. This pivotal event marked a significant change in Wesley’s spiritual life, greatly affecting his preaching and personal devotion.

In the second chapter, Kingdoms on a Blaze, Murray highlights the intense revival of the 1740s, showcasing Wesley’s vigorous preaching that mobilized large crowds and sparked a spiritual awakening. Murray underscores the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in this movement, portraying Wesley not just as a dynamic leader but as an instrument of divine power. The chapter also addresses Wesley’s interactions with other significant revival figures, including the Moravians and George Whitefield, recognizing both the cooperative efforts and the tensions within his ministry.

In chapter three, Understanding Wesley’s Thought, Murray provides an insightful analysis of Wesley’s theology, exploring his views on subjects such as baptism and grace. He also critiques Wesley’s stance on sanctification, while still respecting Wesley’s sincerity and commitment.

Chapter four, The Collision with Calvinism, examines the theological divide between Wesley and Whitefield, focusing on their differing perspectives on Calvinism. Murray explains that Wesley’s opposition was driven by concerns about Calvinism’s impact on holy living and evangelism, but he also defends Calvinism, suggesting Wesley’s criticisms were based on misunderstandings. Despite their theological differences, Murray praises Wesley’s steadfast dedication to evangelism and his contributions to the Evangelical Awakening.

The second part of the book, Men Who Followed, shifts the focus to the leaders who continued Wesley’s work after his death. Through the lives of William Bramwell, Gideon Ouseley, and Thomas Collins, Murray illustrates how the Methodist movement not only survived but thrived, expanding its influence in the early 19th century. These biographical sketches are particularly engaging, as Murray draws on rare and overlooked sources to bring these figures to life.

In the third part, Against Unquestioning Following, Murray critiques aspects of Wesley’s doctrine, particularly his teachings on justification and Christian perfection. While Murray acknowledges Wesley’s theological inconsistencies, he approaches these topics with a charitable perspective, recognizing the complexity of Wesley’s thought and the genuine spiritual concerns that underpinned his teachings.

The final part of the book, Methodism, with and without the Holy Spirit, offers a reflective analysis of Methodism’s growth after Wesley’s death. Murray challenges the notion that Wesley’s personality was the sole driver of the movement’s success, attributing its continued expansion to the work of the Holy Spirit.

Final thoughts:

Iain H. Murray’s Wesley and Men Who Followed is a masterful work that not only chronicles the life of John Wesley but also offers deep insights into his thoughts, teachings, theology, and the spiritual dynamics of the Methodist movement. I strongly believe that this book is more relevant than ever, given the current challenges and shakedown in the Methodist Church. Murray’s thorough scholarship and thoughtful reflections provide us with many valuable lessons. I highly recommend this exceptional work!

So far, I have read various sermons from the set, his commentary on James, and I am currently finishing up his Psalm 119 sermons. Manton is not as “flowery” with as many vivid Puritan analogies and illustrations as others, but he is second to none in exposition and application, and I have come to appreciate and look forward to both of these from him in every sermon.

Murray’s biography delves into Pink’s complex personality. Raised in a Christian home, Pink was once involved in Spiritism. His conversion, marked by a moment of divine conviction, led him on a lifelong quest to expound the truths of God’s word, shaping his ministry and writings.

This biography also thoroughly charts Pink’s theological journey, particularly his transition from Hyper-Calvinism to a more balanced Reformed stance. This evolution is thoughtfully examined. Murray’s treatment of Pink’s theological shifts is insightful and offers a comprehensive view of Pink’s development as a thinker and writer.

Murray presents a balanced portrait of Pink’s strengths and struggles. While the biography captures Pink’s relentless commitment to truth, it also reveals his life marked by solitude and sorrow. It highlights Pink’s dedication to ministry and his willingness to risk everything for the gospel truth, while also exploring his isolation and individualism.

In the latter chapters, Murray examines Pink’s role as a teacher and surveys the final 16 years of his life, which were wholly devoted to his magazine ministry. Additionally, Murray explores Pink’s remarkable letter-writing, noting that by 1946, he may have penned over 20,000 letters full of thought and consideration.

Final thoughts:

While many first encountered Arthur Pink through his book on the “Sovereignty of God,” my introduction to his work came through “The Attributes of God.” Since reading that exceptional book, I have developed a deep appreciation for his writings. This biography has allowed me to understand this flawed yet faithful follower of God more profoundly and to appreciate him even more. The Life of Arthur W. Pink by Iain Murray is an inspiring, well-rounded, and informative account that brings to life the story of a man whose legacy continues to shape the landscape of Christian thought.

Murray’s biography, the first full-length life of Edwards in nearly fifty years when it was published in 1987, stands out for its thoroughness and empathetic approach. Drawing on a wealth of material from Edwards’ own writings, intimate letters, and contemporary historical studies, Murray crafts a vivid portrayal of Edwards’ life. From his early years and spiritual awakening to his tenure as Pastor of Northampton, his missionary work among the Stockbridge Indians, and his brief presidency at the New Jersey College (later Princeton University), Edwards’ journey is detailed with precision and care.

Murray’s narrative excels in several areas. He delves into Edwards’ early childhood and the Christian influences that shaped his worldview. The biography details Edwards’ salvation experience and his subsequent theological development, which would underpin his contributions to the Great Awakening. Murray also highlights Edwards’ personal life, portraying his marriage and family with warmth and respect, and illustrating how his home life influenced his ministry.

Furthermore, Murray was able to contextualize Edwards within his faith. Unlike some modern scholars who analyze Edwards’ intellectual contributions in isolation from his religious beliefs, Murray insists that Edwards’ life and work can only be fully understood through the lens of his devout Christian faith. This perspective is crucial, as it sheds light on Edwards’ motivations, struggles, and achievements in a way that resonates with both historical and spiritual depth.

The biography does not shy away from the challenges and controversies Edwards faced. Murray provides a balanced account of the opposition Edwards encountered during the Great Awakening, his controversial stance on the Lord’s Supper, and his eventual expulsion from the Northampton Church. These episodes are handled with sensitivity, revealing Edwards’ resilience and unwavering commitment to his principles.

Murray also covers Edwards’ missionary work among the Native Americans in Stockbridge. His depiction of this period showcases Edwards’ dedication and adaptability and offers a nuanced view of his later years. Additionally, Murray’s exploration of Edwards’ time at Princeton provides insight into his final days.

While the biography is comprehensive, some may note the absence of a discussion on Edwards and slavery—a topic that, while less central to his theological contributions, remains relevant to understanding his historical context fully. However, this omission does not significantly detract from the overall value of the work.

Final thoughts:

Iain H. Murray’s biography of Jonathan Edwards is a highly edifying work and a significant contribution to the study of American religious history. It offers a well-rounded, deeply insightful, and spiritually enriching account of Edwards’ life and work. I highly recommend this, especially to pastors and ministers who need some inspiration in the ministry.

John Charles Ryle’s life was marked by dramatic contrasts. Born in 1816 into a wealthy family, his early years were characterized by affluence and academic success at Eton and Oxford. However, his life took a significant turn at the age of 21 when he embraced Christianity. This newfound faith led him on a path of devout service, eventually becoming the first Anglican bishop of Liverpool. Ryle’s ministry and writings were distinguished by a steadfast commitment to evangelical doctrines, clear biblical teaching, and boldness in proclaiming the truth.

Murray’s biography skillfully captures these transformations, illustrating how Ryle’s experiences of personal trials deepened his reliance on God and shaped his pastoral and literary contributions. Despite facing numerous adversities, including the bankruptcy of his family and the loss of his first wife, Ryle emerged as a steadfast defender of evangelical truth, undeterred by the changing tides of theological liberalism and Catholic resurgence.

As a person who has read many of Ryle’s work, I appreciate Murray’s emphasis on Ryle’s enduring literary legacy. Although his influence waned after his death in 1900, there was a renewed interest in his writings over the recent decades. Books such as “Holiness,” “Practical Religion,” and “Expository Thoughts on the Gospels” have once again found a broad readership, resonating with modern Christians for their clarity, doctrinal depth, and practical application. Ryle’s ability to articulate deep theological truths in an accessible manner has made his works timeless treasures in Christian literature.

Murray’s narrative not only highlights Ryle’s theological contributions but also his personal integrity and courage. Ryle believed passionately in the authority of Scripture, and he was not afraid to engage in controversy when it was required to defend the gospel. This biography underscores how Ryle’s unwavering stand on biblical truths provides a powerful example for contemporary believers facing similar challenges in a rapidly changing world.

Furthermore, the book is enriched with relevant photographs, providing readers with a vivid portrayal of Ryle’s life and times. Murray’s thorough research and engaging writing style bring to life the historical context in which Ryle lived and ministered, and makes the biography not only informative but also deeply inspiring.

For those familiar with Ryle’s works, J.C. Ryle: Prepared to Stand Alone offers a deeper appreciation of the man behind the writings. For new readers, it serves as an inviting introduction to a figure whose life and legacy continue to impact the Christian faith profoundly. Murray’s biography is a compelling call to revisit Ryle’s insights and to be inspired by his steadfast faith and dedication to the gospel.

See the full recommendation here: https://servantsofgrace.org/review-the-cross-he-bore-meditations-on-the-sufferings-of-the-redeemer/

Covering April 1742 to October 1747, the Diary was initially private but published in abridged form by Jonathan Edwards in 1749. Brainerd’s Journal, from June 1745 to June 1746, was written at the request of the Scottish Society for Propagating Christian Knowledge, documenting his missionary efforts among North America’s indigenous peoples. Despite facing considerable challenges, Brainerd dedicated himself to spreading the gospel among Native Americans until his death in 1747, inspiring future missionaries with his unwavering commitment to Christ.

In his diary and journals, we see Brainerd as an individual troubled by life’s challenges, wrestling with loneliness and depression. Nevertheless, his commitment to personal devotion and holiness remained steadfast, even in times of perceived distance from God. His obedience, humility, and recognition of his own sinfulness are commendable qualities deserving of contemplation.

Brainerd’s diary offers an intimate glimpse into his spiritual life, while his journal provides an objective account of his missionary work. However, they lack extensive descriptions of his interactions with the Native Americans he ministered to. So, if you want to learn more about his missionary work on the Natives, you need to consult other references aside from this.

Although containing repetitions common in diary entries, reading it really strengthened my admiration for David Brainerd. His passionate commitment to God, and love and compassion for others are deeply inspiring. His example challenges me to live with passion, purpose, and excellence, for the glory of God. Furthermore, in a time when worship is often seen as contingent on feelings, Brainerd’s adherence to obedience over emotions is really encouraging. His steadfastness provides inspiration to endure difficulties and trials.

There are only a few books that I would call life-changing, and I must say that The Diary And Journal Of David Brainerd is one of them. The faith, resilience, and courage that this brave missionary has shown despite trials and tribulations of life are extraordinary and worth emulating. This book will surely inspire you to serve God and others, and proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. If you haven’t read this life-changing book, I highly recommend this fine edition from Banner of Truth!

What I love most about this book is that it is literally saturated with Scripture. Every page you turn is filled with passages that will help you pray the Scripture. It is also meticulously organized under various themes to guide Christians in praying in alignment with the truth revealed in God’s Word. By categorizing biblical passages, it enables believers to structure their prayers based on scriptural principles, ensuring their supplications and praises resonate with biblical truth.

In terms of the book’s physical construction, Banner of Truth consistently delivers with excellence. This book is sewn-bound in a cloth-over-board cover with a beautiful matching dust jacket. It also features highly opaque premium cream paper and includes a satin ribbon marker.

As ageless as prayer is, this work by Matthew Henry is a treasure trove of heavenly blessings. O. Palmer Robertson did an exceptional job in editing this for the modern reader, ensuring that it will endure and stay relevant for years to come. If you want to enrich your prayer life and learn to pray the Scriptures, this book will do wonders for your prayer and spiritual life!

My favorite Puritan work to date. Richard Sibbes exposits every drop of meaning this verse has for the believer. It is comforting and reassuring, a message that many of us Christians need to remind ourselves of, in fact, we all need the reminder daily. Though were are as bruised reeds, Christ will not break us. Though were are a smoking flax or “faintly burning wick” (ESV), He will keep that flame burning in us and preserve us till the end. What a message to be heard.

‘Let goods and kindred go
This mortal life also
The body they may kill
God’s truth abideth still
His Kingdom is forever.’

This collection of letters by John Calvin contains a wide spectrum of recipients, reflecting his engagement with kings and princes, fellow Reformers, friends, nobility, and common folk alike. Within these pages, readers will encounter a man whose warm pastoral concern is evident in every word, whose passion for God and the gospel burns brightly, and whose life is grounded in the Word of God.

This selection of letters provides a fascinating insight into various aspects of Calvin’s life and ministry. Included are letters written in connection with the establishment of the Reformation in England, offering a rare glimpse into Calvin’s influence on the spread of Protestantism beyond the borders of Geneva. The correspondence with Calvin’s closest friends, particularly William Farel, Luther, and Melanchthon, provides valuable insights into the relationships that shaped his theological thought and ministry.

This selection of seventy letters, drawn from the collection edited by Jules Bonnet and first published in 1855-1857, is accompanied by an introductory biographical sketch that provides context for Calvin’s life and times. The cloth-bound format adds a touch of elegance to this volume, fitting for the treasure contained within.

Within these pages, you’ll witness a dedicated pastor with tender care for the souls under his charge. Between the lines of these letters, you’ll encounter a counselor who offers encouragement in times of trial and uncertainty. In essence, The Letters of John Calvin is a gold mine that reflects the heart and soul of the Genevan reformer. These pages contain the purest practical distillation of the theology and doctrine that Calvin taught. Read these letters, and be enriched and edified!

For those hungering for more, Banner of Truth also offers a larger 7-volume set, the Tracts and Letters of John Calvin, providing a comprehensive collection of Calvin’s writings for further study and reflection.

Aside from his magnum opus, The Institutes of The Christian Religion, Calvin has written many volumes of commentary on most of the books of the Bible. While his commentaries reflect his expository genius, his sermons delivered to his congregation are the finest distillation of his theological brilliance. Containing a total of 10 sermons, this 180-page volume on Christ’s suffering and redemptive work captures Calvin’s biblical wisdom, warm pastoral heart, and love for the Savior. This volume also includes four pages of prayers before and after the sermon, and indexes of Scripture references.

Just as he did in translating Calvin’s Institutes, Robert White did an excellent job in translating these sermons for the benefit of the modern church. The text reads smoothly and is really easy to understand. It certainly reads like a sermon, and as if you’re sitting among Calvin’s congregation as his voice thunders and proclaims the suffering and ultimate victory of Christ.

These sermons are experiential, applicatory, and homiletical. Calvin highlights God’s sovereign grace, Christ’s meekness, humility, and Lordship. I admire his strong grasp and mastery of Scripture—how he interconnects Matthew’s gospel account with the other accounts and related Scriptures. His explanations are thorough yet delivered plainly so people can understand.

But more than his ability to communicate these truths, I love his emphasis on the importance of not just acknowledging the historical events surrounding Christ’s suffering, death, and resurrection, but also tracing their profound significance—the fruitful aftermath and the transformative power inherent in Christ’s finished work. It transcends through the lives of believers and influences not only what we believe but also shapes our actions, guides our worship, and enriches our prayer life.

Among these sermons, the sixth one based on Matthew 27:27-44, titled “Numbered With The Transgressors” spoke to me the most and confronted me to the core. I was crushed and humbled by the truth of Jesus’ sacrifice. These words reminded me of the Gospel anew: “The King put our salvation before his own life and suffered all that was necessary for our redemption. He was swallowed up in death for our deliverance. Thus, if God now stretches out his mighty hand to help us in time of need, it is because Jesus Christ bore all things with patient suffering.” (p. 95)

Final thoughts:
John Calvin’s sermons in Crucified and Risen are definitely among the best that I have read on the subject. His ability to translate theological truths into practical application is unparalleled, and I am so thankful that we have access to these sermons today, even centuries after they were delivered.

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Thanks to Banner of Truth for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest review.

At a time when Wales was considered spiritually desolate, Thomas Charles emerged as a leader of spiritual transformation. Despite facing adversity and exclusion from traditional pulpits, Charles quietly assumed leadership among the ‘Calvinistic Methodists,’ a movement seeking to revitalize Christian faith in the region. Originally published in 1836, this volume serves as a testament to Charles’s life, wisdom, and ministry.

Containing over 300 pages, Spiritual Counsels is a treasure trove of Charles’s finest writings. From heartfelt essays on faith, Christian life, theology, and sanctification to letters addressed to family, friends, and fellow pastors, this book offers a comprehensive insight into Charles’s multifaceted life.

This book includes a 20-page biographical introduction by Iain Murray, providing essential context and illuminating the historical backdrop against which Charles’s life and teachings unfolded. It offers readers a deeper understanding of the man behind the words, shedding light on his motivations, struggles, and triumphs.

Furthermore, this volume contains 26 essays written by Charles, each brimming with timeless wisdom and spiritual insight. Whether discussing the nature of faith, the practicalities of Christian living, or the nuances of theological doctrine, Charles’s writings exude a deep sense of authenticity, sincerity, and biblical wisdom. His words offer guidance and encouragement for the spiritual journey.

Equally compelling are the 89 letters included in this book, offering a glimpse into Charles’s personal correspondence. Addressed to various individuals, including his brother, wife, and fellow pastors, these letters provide a window into Charles’s heart and mind. Through his candid reflections on life, Christ, and the spiritual state of Wales, Charles reveals the depth of his faith and his unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel.

In addition to essays and letters, Spiritual Counsels also includes nine papers on Sunday school classes, along with detailed minutes from quarterly meetings of his associations in Wales. These documents offer valuable insights into Charles’s practical approach to ministry and his dedication to nurturing the spiritual growth of believers.

Final thoughts:

Spiritual Counsels is a remarkable compilation that not only showcases the wisdom of Thomas Charles but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith and God’s gospel of grace. I especially recommend this book to church leaders and pastors who are weary and in need of spiritual strength and insight for the ministry. Overall, this book is sure to inspire and enrich the life of any pilgrim along the way!

(Special thanks to Banner of Truth for sending me a copy for review!)

A few weeks ago I gave a copy to one brother from Łuków. He found the book so helpful, so clarifying, that after few days he passed it on to another brother – Mariusz. Mariusz read it and gave it to his dad – Stanisław. A week ago Stanisław asked me if I had more copies since he would like to give it to one lady, a friend of his, who is his dentist. He hopes to invite her to church.

So… last midweek meeting I brought more copies and gave them to folks from Łuków church. Next day I have met with Edyta who read most of the book in one day. She said: “I wish I read this book earlier. It clarifies so much”! When I asked Stanisław if he liked the book he said: “This pastor should get a nobel prize for writing it”!

I am sharing it with you just to express how lovely it is to see Christians being excited about spiritual matters and healthy growth in holiness. Encouraging to see how the gospel truths shape them.

BTW if anyone of you are in touch with pastor David Campbell, please feel free to share it with him and encourage him with this words: your book is changing people’s lives. And one Polish brother thinks you should get a nobel prize for it!

Many blessings
Adam Urban