Thomas Charles’ Spiritual Counsels
Selected From His Letters and Papers by Edward Morgan
| Weight | 0.5 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 21.5 × 13.6 × 3.0 cm |
| ISBN | 9781800401853 |
| Binding | Cloth-bound, eBook (ePub & Kindle), Cloth-bound & eBook (ePub & Kindle) |
| format | Book |
| page-count | 392 |
| topic | 18th Century, Spiritual Growth |
| scripture | Whole Bible |
| Original Pub Date | 1836 |
Book Description
The North of Wales in the 1770s was one of the least Christian parts of Britain. The next three decades brought a transformation akin to that of the apostolic era and at the centre of the change was Thomas Charles, ‘the Lord’s gift to North Wales’.
Debarred from the pulpits of his own denomination, and dependent on his shop-keeper wife at Bala, Charles quietly became the leader of the people (‘Calvinistic Methodists’) whose God-anointed witness gathered thousands to the gospel. This astonishing advance involved Bible distribution, the use of circulating schools, preaching, and publishing. More than all these things, there was an outpouring of the Spirit of God and the most enduring lessons of the period have to do with the quality of spiritual life which was then recovered.
This volume, first published in 1838, shows us both what that life was in Thomas Charles’ own experience and how wisely he taught it to others.
Charles’ main characteristic, said Edward Morgan (his editor), was his large measure of love and humility. His life itself, ‘with heaven in his face’, as men said, was a sermon.
For insight into real, biblical Christianity this book will always be one of the classics of evangelical literature. John Elias’ verdict of many years ago remains true, ‘Whatever proceeds from Mr. Charles is excellent’. This was one of the last books in the hands of Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones before his death and it led him to conclude that Thomas Charles ‘is definitely one of the most neglected of the spiritual leaders’.
Table of Contents Expand ↓
| Biographical Introduction | xi | |
| Preface | xxxvii | |
| ESSAYS | 1 | |
| LETTERS TO MR D. CHARLES | 213 | |
| LETTERS TO MISS SARAH JONES (AFTERWARDS MRS THOMAS CHARLES) | 234 | |
| LETTERS TO HIS WIFE | 286 | |
| LETTERS TO MISS WRIGHT, OF TARVIN | 302 | |
| LETTERS TO MR RICHARD JONES, OF WREXHAM | 306 | |
| LETTERS TO MRS ANN JONES, OF WREXHAM | 308 | |
| LETTERS TO MR ROBERT JONES, OF TY BWLCYN… | 312 | |
| LETTERS TO MRS THOMAS COLLEY, OF CEFNGWIFED… | 319 | |
| LETTERS TO MISS ELIZA COLLEY, OF CEFNGWIFED | 324 | |
| LETTERS TO MR JOHN WALKER, OF CHESTER | 326 | |
| LETTERS TO MR AND MRS JOHN WALKER, OF CHESTER | 329 | |
| LETTERS TO MR AND MRS WILLIAM ASTLE, OF LONDON | 332 | |
| LETTERS TO THE REV MR JOHN MAJOR, OF SHAWBURY | 352 | |
| LETTERS TO MISS MARY ASHWELL, OF MILBORNE PORT… | 370 | |
| LETTERS TO MR R- D-, OF LIVERPOOL | 381 | |
| LETTERS TO EDWARD MORGAN | 383 | |
| LETTERS TO MISS MARY FOULKS, OF MACHYNLLETH | 401 | |
| LETTERS TO MISS MARY HUGHES, OF LIVERPOOL | 403 | |
| LETTERS TO MRS E-, C- N | 404 | |
| LETTERS TO THE REV HENRY GREY, OF STENTON… | 408 | |
| PAPERS – Preface to the Rev Mr Oliver’s Hymn Book | 414 | |
| SUNDAY SCHOOLS | 420 | |
| MINUTES OF QUARTERLY MEETINGS | 437 |
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Selections from the letters and papers of the 18th-century minister of Bala in North Wales, with a biographical sketch by Iain H. Murray. 520pp.
Derek Moore –
Praying the Lord would raise up men like Thomas Charles. The writings and letters in this book are full of warmth, zeal and Holy Spirit wrought devotion. Much is to be gleaned from this man. You will truly be edified. Pray and read and repeat….and be humbled to live a life of dependence on God.
Reid Williamson –
I have been reading Charles’s letters in this book since I got the book a week ago and have been richly strengthened in the gospel. His letters lift the reader’s gaze up to the glorious Christ and his manifold wonders. I have been so affected by his pastoral insight that I went to on buy the Banner’s publication on the Welsh Revival. Looking forward to benefitting more from the Lord’s blessing on his people during that time in history. Praying the Lord uses this book to teach his church to consider how many gifts he has given to us for centuries!
Benjamin Hegan –
An outstanding work. D. Martyn Lloyd Jones knew of Thomas Charles and read his work. I was recommended this book by a minister in my denomination here in Northern Ireland and I’m so glad to say that it’s a marvelous book. It is his writings on various spiritual topics, letters to his fiancée (latterly his wife) and friends as well as minutes from Sunday Schools (sounds dull but it’s far from it). The best way that I can describe his writing is that it’s much like the Puritans in their heart searching application. We have here a deep intertwining of theology and the application of that same theology. Surely this is the best type of writing? It’s exceptional, heart warming, and reassuring. It has enflamed my love for my Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, and greatly increased my sense of urgency to tell others of what Christ has done for my soul. Now to read the biography of him, also published by Banner of Truth! Highly recommended!
Rees Hovland –
Great book! The essays and letters are very encouraging to read. I would highly recommend this book. It will be a very encouraging read for all!
Thiago Gomes –
Here is a deep ocean of practical and experimental theology.
marcdanielrivera –
Thomas Charles: a name that might not ring a bell in many circles, yet his impact on Christianity, particularly in 18th-century Wales, was profound. In Spiritual Counsels, edited by Edward Morgan and published by Banner of Truth, readers are offered a rare glimpse into the life and ministry of this Welsh ‘revivalist.’
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!)