Why should one have a high view of the visible church and its ministry? The short answer is, Because this is what the Bible requires. Jesus said ‘I will build my church.’ He charged the disciples to baptize their converts into the church and in the process teach them all of his commandments (Matt. 16:18; 28:18–20).

Bible texts not only transform one’s personal life, but also shape one’s outlook on the church–its ministry and mission. In Texts that Transform: Church and Ministry, Terry Johnson shows how the Bible determines our understanding of such things as a Christian’s calling in general, the specific role of the minister, the shape of public worship, the content of the church’s public services, and the character of the day on which those services are conducted. Why do we do what we do in life and ministry? Because these are the things that the Bible–the word of God–directs us to do.

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Book Description

In 1786, at the age of twenty-two, Alexander Stewart became parish minister of Moulin, near Pitlochry, Scotland. He was as yet unconverted. Sermons from those early years he would later denounce as ‘youthful trifles, produced in the season of ignorance and darkness, possessing nothing of the savour of the gospel, abounding in errors, fit only to be pitied, fit only to be destroyed.’ When the change came it deeply impacted not only his preaching but his congregation. At the time of his settlement in Moulin most were as ignorant of the gospel as he was. As he puts it himself, ‘The opinion of their own works recommending them to the favour of God, and procuring a reward from his bounty, was almost universal.’ Now they began to think as differently about such things as their minister did. Indeed, it was not long before Moulin was in the grip of a revival that resulted in many conversions.

James Sievewright’s biography, long out of print, is an invaluable account of the steps by which Stewart was led from darkness to light, of the revival that followed, and of Stewart’s subsequent ministries in Dingwall and in Edinburgh. It introduces us to David Black, the young evangelical minister who played a major role in Stewart’s conversion, and is enriched by a selection of the letters that passed between them. It shows us, too, what a remarkable and far-reaching ministry an unconverted minister may one day exercise if God should be pleased to save him.

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The last words of a dying man are often worthy of being recorded. That is especially true of those spoken by Jesus Christ while dying on the cross. His seven last words have been called ‘the bright lights of heaven shining at intervals through the darkness’ and ‘the deep solemn tones which interpret the cross.’

Just seven ‘words’, yet what fullness they contain! As the author so ably shows, they present the full gospel of salvation.

Short, instructive, and deeply moving, Light from Calvary takes us to the cross that we might fix our eyes on ‘the Saviour of the world.’

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This new book is a rare combination of devotional, memoir, and Bible study that brings the reader into a sense of relationship with the author and renewed connection to God’s word. Travelling through Terry Johnson’s conversion, call, and growth in Christian understanding and character, one reflects on the passages that have influenced his spiritual life. The non-Christian reader will find a winsome companion and instructor in foundational theological truths; the Christian will be challenged to consider what verses have guided his or her own path.

The truth of the gospel, the dangers of hypocrisy and legalism, freedom from anxiety, the urgency of evangelism – these are all helpful topics. But it becomes clear that Terry’s real passion is the beauty, the humanity and the holiness of the Lord Jesus Christ, and this is the heart of this warm and pastoral book.

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In Gospel Life, a posthumous compilation of thirteen sermons from the zenith of his preaching career, John Owen answers these questions with great compassion for the Christian who longs for growth and assurance. He draws on a wide range of Scripture to display the character of the Saviour, the acceptance of the Father, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. Finally, Owen addresses the death and eternal hope of the believer, offering encouragement to all who love Christ.

A companion volume, Gospel Ministry, expounds the calling of Christian ministers, and exhorts congregations to loving and prayerful church life.

N.B. The sermons in this volume have been selected from The Works of John Owen, Volume 9, and modernised.

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Book Description

Christmas, and New Year, are excellent moments to pause and reflect—as scattered families regather for the national holiday, and as the calendar turns over again, with another year gone forever. J. C. Ryle urges us—in the midst of our feasting and festivities and family reunions—to make time to consider our spiritual state and our relationship with God. How is it with our souls? What do we make of Jesus Christ? What will be our future, when all our Christmases are past?

This little book contains five of Ryle’s most popular Christmas tracts, the spiritual wisdom of which is timeless. Ryle challenges us—while we enjoy the wonderful delights of mince pies and mistletoe and mulled wine and music and merriment—to make the most of every Christmas, to consider seriously the person of Jesus Christ and questions of eternal significance.

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Book Description

Samuel Miller (1769–1850), was a faithful pastor, who became a founding father and a professor of Princeton Theological Seminary. He had a deep commitment to the church and an abiding interest in seeing ministers trained ably for her service — an interest which led to him writing this book.

As Dr. Jonathan Master notes in his Foreword to this edition of Miller’s work, ‘public prayer is the priority on Paul’s mind when considering public worship.’ Despite this priority, today public prayer has in some churches a diminishing place in corporate worship.

Ministers especially need instruction in public prayer — Samuel Miller understood this need in his day, and so much of what he wrote remains pertinent to the practice of an edifying ministry in the present.

This volume is replete with insights into the vital place of public prayer in worship, and of sound advice as to how progress may be made in this aspect of pastoral ministry.

This edition includes a Foreword by Dr. Jonathan L. Master, President of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Taylors, South Carolina, USA.

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Book Description

Mary, the mother of Jesus; Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus; and Mary Magdalene all feature prominently in the gospel narrative. But what can Christians learn from the faith displayed by these women?

In these moving and engaging chapters, Alexander Moody Stuart draws out their characters and helps readers learn from each one’s relationship to Jesus. Perhaps too often known only at the surface-level, these three women, brought into sharper focus by Moody Stuart’s reflective and often vivid portrayals, have much to teach us about the faithful Christian life.

Moody Stuart’s preaching and teaching were marked by a keen sensitivity to the human condition and its needs, combined with challenging practical application. This, linked with a deep tenderness and love, well-qualified him to write The Three Marys.

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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’.

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This is a pastoral, thoughtful, encouraging, challenging and, above all, radically God-centred book. The thirty brief but compelling chapters remind us that this world is not our home, that our destiny is ‘a city that has foundations whose designer and builder is God,’ and that we are called to live world-engaging, Christ-glorifying lives. It also highlights a most important aspect of the gospel’s message – the cosmic nature of Christ’s redemption, from its beginning in the wake of Adam’s tragic fall in humanity’s first home, the garden of Eden, to its consummation in the new heavens and new earth.

Here is a call to all Christians to live as pilgrims, pressing onwards and upwards to our eternal home.

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Podcasts

• Mark Johnston Discusses This World Is Not My Home with Theology on the Go

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According to J. C. Ryle, next to praying there is nothing so important in practical religion as Bible reading. God in his mercy has given us a book ‘which is able to make us wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus’ (2 Tim. 3:15). By reading the Bible we may learn what to believe, what to be, and what to do; how to live with comfort, and how to die in peace.

Can anything, therefore, be more important than being in possession of a Bible? However, to have a Bible is one thing, to read it is quite another. Happy is the one who not only has a Bible but who reads it, obeys it, and makes it the rule of one’s faith and practice!

In this little book Ryle clearly explains why we ought to value the Bible highly, to study it regularly, and to make ourselves thoroughly acquainted with its contents.

This book consists of material extracted from Ryle’s Practical Religion, which is also published by the Trust.

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Our Bibles consistently use the noun ‘Transfiguration’ with regard to Jesus but ‘Transformation’ with regard to the Christian – and yet it is one and the same verb, transliterated ‘metamorphosed,’ that is used in those places in the original text. Why is that so? Is there an important difference between them? And why does the noun ‘metamorphosis’ which is familiar to us never occur in the New Testament? And yet is there some connection between the Transfiguration of Jesus and the Transformation of the Christian?

Hywel R. Jones presents answers to these questions in this book. In the course of doing so he shows how the divine can penetrate the human without destroying it as in the Person of Christ, and how the human can become conformed to the divine without its ceasing to be human as in the case of the Christian. That kind of metamorphosis accords and exalts the Christian gospel over against the humanism of our culture, whether secularised or spiritualised.

There is a distinction between God and Man which will never be obliterated but preserved for ever – even in the glorified Christ in whom they are joined. But communion between the God-Man and his believing people will result in each Christian being fully conformed to the perfect humanity of Christ while retaining his or her own individuality. It will not result in a faceless absorption into the divine but face to face communion with the triune God for ever.

‘The transfiguration of Christ shows how the divine can penetrate the human without destroying it. The transformation of the believer shows how the human can become conformed to the divine without its ceasing to be human. This is the ultimate metamorphosis that is compatible with Christian truth.’ — HYWEL R. JONES

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The apostle Paul often taught young converts to the Christian faith that ‘we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God’ (Acts 14:22). For first-century Christians suffering for Christ was an inevitable accompaniment to a life of serious discipleship.

In many parts of the world little has changed since those early days. But in the West, Christians have long enjoyed a period of unusual rest from such troubles. However, there are ominous signs that change is on the way. Suffering ‘for righteousness’ sake’ may once again mark the lives of faithful Christians in the West.

In this exposition of Paul’s words, ‘For I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus’ (Acts 21:13), John Flavel shows us how vital and excellent a thing it is to prepare ourselves for the onset of sufferings.

‘The cup of sufferings is a very bitter cup, and it is but needful that we provide somewhat to sweeten it…’ — JOHN FLAVEL

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‘You are holding the last book of a true shepherd who knew what it is to be one of Christ’s sheep. It is a rich, biblical, theological, experiential, devotional meditation on the Twenty-third Psalm, combined with a testimony to God’s faithfulness by a godly pastor and professor who is now at home with his Good Shepherd, having long lived in the valley of the shadow of death.’ — LIGON DUNCAN, in the preface

Book Description

The Twenty-third Psalm is probably the best known of all the chapters of the Bible and among the most memorable words ever written in any language. It is so familiar that it would be easy to think that we can learn nothing more from it. But through exposition intermingled with prayers and personal testimony, David Calhoun reminds us that this psalm has great depth, and that lifelong meditation on its words will help Christians to understand just what it is to be a sheep under the care of the ‘good Shepherd.’

Each of the ten chapters in A Sheep Remembers contains a version of the Twenty-third Psalm or a hymn that is based on the psalm, followed by commentary on the verse that is being considered; writings from shepherds that help us to understand sheep and their ways; prayers, quotations and stories that illustrate the theme; and in the last place, the author’s own personal testimony.

This is a striking and profound little volume that will give much spiritual help to readers at all stages in the Christian life.

Review

• • Review by Ligon Duncan, featured on The Gospel Coalition

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There can be no doubt that a seismic shift has taken place within the English-speaking world over the last sixty years regarding what used to be referred to as ‘the Christian Sabbath.’ What was considered to be a day of rest, worship and holy activity is now just like any other day of the week — one for the shopping mall, the sports stadium, or for some self-indulgent ‘me-time.’

What has led to this transformation? Or, more importantly, how ought we to think of the first day of the week? Were our forefathers correct in their understanding of ‘the Lord’s Day’ or ‘the Christian Sabbath’? And what did the Lord Jesus Christ mean when he said that ‘the Sabbath was made for man’ and that he was ‘Lord of the Sabbath’?

Terry Johnson investigates these questions and the issues raised by them. He draws out the teaching of Scripture and illustrates it from the writings of many of the great teachers of the Christian church. He then sets out practical recommendations to help today’s Christians experience the benefits and blessings of the special day God has given us.

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According to Dr Mark Dever, ‘This little booklet is a devotional classic.’ It contains a ‘gospel map’ that reveals the way to the ‘riches of the covenant.’ With great skill and an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of Scripture, Joseph Alleine (c.1634–68) conveys the ‘exceeding great and precious promises’ of God, and sets them forth in such a way as to bring encouragement and delight to the Christian believer. He demonstrates how, by embracing these promises, the believer is enabled to overcome all the assaults of unbelief. ‘Faith,’ he says, ‘makes its claim to all the benefits of the covenant, and stirs up the soul to joy and thankfulness.’ It is little wonder to learn that Alleine’s treatment of God’s precious promises has proved an effective balm to countless weary souls for more than 300 years.

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‘Walking Toward the Dawn provides a sure-footed biblical encouragement to find the heart of our assurance outside of ourselves.’ — IAN HAMILTON

Book Description

The experience of assurance is an area of the Christian life that is troublesome for many. The author of this booklet is one who knows how difficult the struggle can be of finding certainty in one’s relationship to God in Jesus Christ.

Walking Toward the Dawn is aimed at helping others come to a full assurance of the reality of their Christian faith and salvation. The author says: ‘For those who are not struggling with doubt, my hope is that this booklet may prove to be preventative medicine that will fortify them against future infection. For those who are wrestling with doubts, my prayer is that this booklet may guide them out of the gloom and into the dawn.’

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When a Jewish religious leader heard Jesus say, ‘You must be born again’, he was hearing words of the greatest importance, for without this ‘new birth’ entering the kingdom of God is simply not possible. In investigating this ‘key truth’ of the Bible, this mini-guide shows us the sheer greatness of the salvation Jesus brings.

Banner Mini Guides

Banner Mini Guides introduce the the reader to some of the major themes and issues related to the Christian faith. They lay a solid foundation of Bible teaching while encouraging more thorough exploration of the theme with suggestions for further reading. The mini-guides will seamlessly fit into the teaching quarters of the church year with their thirteen-chapter format, making them useful for group as well as for individual study.

Also in this series:
Growing in Grace
The Christian Mind
Salvation
The Church
The Bible

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Transformed is a strong word, but not too strong to describe the wonderful change that takes place in sanctification. This mini-guide introduces us to the Bible’s teaching on this glorious work of God – a work that takes place inwardly and shows itself outwardly. The result is nothing less than a transformation!

Banner Mini Guides

Banner Mini Guides introduce the the reader to some of the major themes and issues related to the Christian faith. They lay a solid foundation of Bible teaching while encouraging more thorough exploration of the theme with suggestions for further reading. The mini-guides will seamlessly fit into the teaching quarters of the church year with their thirteen-chapter format, making them useful for group as well as for individual study.

Also in this series:
Growing in Grace
The Christian Mind
Salvation
The Church
The Bible
Regeneration

Table of Contents Expand ↓

The post Sanctification appeared first on Banner of Truth UK.

This practical guide to growing in grace is rooted in the Bible’s teaching on ‘grace,’ especially as it is revealed in the Lord Jesus Christ. By examining his role as our prophet, priest, and king we will see not only the ways in which he displayed God’s grace during his earthly ministry, but also how he governs and guides us as we grow in grace today.

Banner Mini Guides

Banner Mini Guides introduce the the reader to some of the major themes and issues related to the Christian faith. They lay a solid foundation of Bible teaching while encouraging more thorough exploration of the theme with suggestions for further reading. The mini-guides will seamlessly fit into the teaching quarters of the church year with their thirteen-chapter format, making them useful for group as well as for individual study.

Also in this series:
Sanctification
The Christian Mind
Salvation
The Church
The Bible
Regeneration

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PODCAST

• • Interview with Jonathan Master from Confessing Our Hope

The post Growing in Grace appeared first on Banner of Truth UK.

Being able to think and reason is part of what makes us human. However clever we may or may not be, our minds matter. The Bible shows us that when people become Christians, their minds are made new. This mini-guide to the Christian Mind explores the far-reaching implications of having a renewed mind.

Banner Mini Guides

Banner Mini Guides introduce the the reader to some of the major themes and issues related to the Christian faith. They lay a solid foundation of Bible teaching while encouraging more thorough exploration of the theme with suggestions for further reading. The mini-guides will seamlessly fit into the teaching quarters of the church year with their thirteen-chapter format, making them useful for group as well as for individual study.

Also in this series:
Growing in Grace
Sanctification
Salvation
The Church
The Bible
Regeneration

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The post The Christian Mind appeared first on Banner of Truth UK.

Salvation is the greatest need and the deepest longing of all human beings who have ever lived. Throughout history, people have longed for ‘rescue’, though often without understanding ‘from what’ and ‘by whom’. This mini-guide to Salvation goes to the heart of human need and reveals the greatness of God’s deliverance.

Banner Mini Guides

Banner Mini Guides introduce the the reader to some of the major themes and issues related to the Christian faith. They lay a solid foundation of Bible teaching while encouraging more thorough exploration of the theme with suggestions for further reading. The mini-guides will seamlessly fit into the teaching quarters of the church year with their thirteen-chapter format, making them useful for group as well as for individual study.

Also in this series:
Growing in Grace
The Christian Mind
Sanctification
The Church
The Bible
Regeneration

Table of Contents Expand ↓

The post Salvation appeared first on Banner of Truth UK.

The church is the oldest surviving institution in the history of the world. It has changed lives and shaped nations. It is loved, hated, and ignored in equal measure. But what is it, and what is its purpose in the world? This mini-guide answers those questions and shows why the church matters.

Banner Mini Guides

Banner Mini Guides introduce the the reader to some of the major themes and issues related to the Christian faith. They lay a solid foundation of Bible teaching while encouraging more thorough exploration of the theme with suggestions for further reading. The mini-guides will seamlessly fit into the teaching quarters of the church year with their thirteen-chapter format, making them useful for group as well as for individual study.

Also in this series:
Growing in Grace
The Christian Mind
Salvation
Sanctification
The Bible
Regeneration

Table of Contents Expand ↓

The post The Church appeared first on Banner of Truth UK.

‘Here in this stirring call to “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead”, we find a tonic for the soul.’ — ALISTAIR BEGG

‘The resurrection of Christ is the stupendous miracle that validates the truth of the Bible and Christianity. But it is much more than that. It is the actual beginning of the resurrection “harvest” in which those united to Christ by faith have an assured place—not only in the future at his return in their own bodily resurrection, like his, but also presently as he already shares with them his resurrection life through the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. With a Mighty Triumph explores the rich truths of this resurrection reality in instructive ways that will benefit a wide range of readers.’ — RICHARD B. GAFFIN, JR.

Book Description

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the bedrock of the Christian faith. Without it, the truth claims of Christianity crumble. But not only is the resurrection of Jesus true and historically verifiable, it is also the foundation of the believer’s hope for the future. Those in Christ will be raised from the dead in the new creation. The apostle Paul’s argument in 1 Corinthians 15 for the historical resurrection of Christ and the future resurrection of Christians is one of the most momentous theological treatises in the New Testament.

This series of studies, With A Mighty Triumph!, carefully leads readers through Paul’s discussion and examines its inner logic, theological content, and practical application. While not shying away from the difficult subjects of baptism for the dead and the nature of the resurrection body, its main focus is on the hope Christ’s resurrection offers to all who believe.

Reviews

• Review by Tyler Ivey
• Review by The Happy Holy Hour
• Review by Robert Norman

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We’ve put this special bundle together to encourage you to read an author that might be new to you. We believe that though Rhett Dodson is still living, he writes with a depth that we often associate with authors from long ago. And so we think it would be worth your time in getting to know his books. We trust you’ll find his writings spiritually refreshing, accessible and helpful in their application. Rhett writes in a way that lets the Word of God speak for itself, pointing you to Christ as you pilgrim in this barren land. Get to know Christ better through the books of Joshua and the Psalms, and perhaps you’ll add a new author to your list of ‘favourites’ along the way.

The Rhett Dodson bundle features two important works from this new Banner author; Every Promise of Your Word: The Gospel According to Joshua and Marching to Zion: Ancient Psalms for Modern Pilgrims.

Every Promise of Your Word

The book of Joshua stands at a pivotal point in biblical history as the nation of Israel transitioned from a life of wandering in the wilderness to conquering and possessing Canaan, the land of promise. The God who redeemed his people from bondage in Egypt gave them a land of their own just as he swore to Abraham.

In Every Promise of Your Word, learn anew to rely on the God who keeps his every promise and see Jesus as he is revealed in the Scriptures of the Hebrew Bible.

When we place the message of Joshua in its historical and redemptive context, then the relevance of this book for the twenty-first-century church becomes clear. Beyond just being an interesting relic of ancient Jewish history, what we find in this old covenant book is a profoundly Christian message. God not only kept and fulfilled his land promises through Joshua; he also keeps and fulfils his promises of salvation and of a new heavens and new earth, through our Lord Jesus. And God intends for his faithfulness to Christ to elicit faithfulness from his people as well.

‘The more I read Rhett’s expository commentary on Joshua, the more I was just thrilled at the way he brings the different ingredients that make a good sermon and good handling of Scripture all together in a balanced way that allows the text to speak for itself.’ — MARK JOHNSTON

Marching to Zion

The Psalms of Ascents (Psalms 120-134) were sung by Israelites as they made their way to Jerusalem for the annual feasts of Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. As pilgrim songs, they provide a way for believers to express their fears, needs, and aspirations as they journey through this life.

These psalms are also the songs of Jesus. In Marching to Zion you will discover how these ancient songs of Israel affect our faith today, point us to the future, and help keep our eyes on Christ every step of the way.

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‘The Christian world owes a great debt to Archibald Alexander. “Great” because he was the first professor in what would become the preeminent theological institution in the English speaking world—Princeton Seminary. The stamp of his influence on its ethos lasted for a hundred years. Here, in his Thoughts on Religious Experience we encounter the doctrinal richness, the spiritual penetration, and the wise discernment that thirty-nine successive classes of students tasted, and by which their ministries were permanently marked, and those to whom they ministered nourished and transformed. A work to be treasured indeed!’ — SINCLAIR B. FERGUSON

‘Archibald Alexander is not only a favourite for me but one who speaks as though he knows me as a friend. That is the feeling of many who read him, male and female, young and old. “He speaks to my heart”, my wife says. The experiences of a Christian, from new birth to death, are so varied and mysterious that it requires the love and wisdom of Christ to speak of them safely. No one pattern fits all. To Alexander this grace was given. Those who knew him well, such as Dr A.A.Hodge, did not think it too much to say of him: “More than any man of his generation he appeared to those who heard him to be endued with the knowledge and clothed with the authority of a prophet sent immediately from God.”‘ — IAIN H. MURRAY

Book Description

The nature of spiritual experience is probably both the most interesting and the most difficult subject in Christian literature: interesting because it concerns human life in all observable stages from childhood to death, and embraces all the emotions and behaviour possible in a man regenerated by the Holy Spirit; difficult because the adequate treatment of the subject makes immense demands upon the author. To trace sanctification and backsliding, as they appear in human consciousness, presupposes a sound biblical theology as well as a spirituality of mind and a pastoral knowledge broad enough to interpret all the varieties in type which occur. Twenty years a pastor and preacher in a revival era, then forty years a professor at Princeton Theological Seminary (commenced in 1812 when he was the sole instructor), Archibald Alexander brought to this volume the best wisdom of his life. From his own observations, and from case histories drawn from Christian biography, he follows his subject with the hand of a master. He was, in Dr. Theodore Woolsey’s words, ‘The Shakespeare of the Christian heart’. Primarily concerned with what ought to be the impression made upon the life by scriptural truths he has nothing of the vague devotionalism of the religious mystics. But within this biblical context a wide variety of experiences passes under review, along with a consideration of the practical problems involved in an understanding of the new-birth, Christian growth, spiritual conflict and kindred subjects. This is a lucid and fascinating volume almost alone in the field which it covers.

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We live in difficult days and in trying times. This book, with its quaint yet vivid title, points us to the One in whom Christian men and women have always found the strength to persevere come what may. Taking Lamentations 3:24 as his starting-point – ‘The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him,’ – Thomas Brooks expounds the attributes of God with the aim of comforting those who have felt not only the stresses and strains of daily life but also the searing pain of loss in its various forms. God, he says, ‘is a portion that is exactly suited to the condition of the soul in its desires, needs, wants, longings and prayers. All the soul needs is found in God. There is light to enlighten the soul, wisdom to counsel the soul, power to support the soul, goodness to supply the soul, mercy to pardon the soul, beauty to delight the soul, glory to ravish the soul, and fullness to fill the soul.’

‘All true comfort and happiness is only to be found in having an all-sufficient God for your portion.’

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‘Many people “go to church.” Sinclair Ferguson, with his typical gentleness and wisdom, teaches us how to ‘be the church’ as Christ defines it. This simple, clear, and moving book will be great help for people interested in learning more about becoming members of a church. It is also a good tool for those who wish to inject fresh zeal and joy into the membership they already possess.’ — JOEL BEEKE

Book Description

Being a Christian is not an individualistic or isolated activity. Believing also involves belonging. Being a Christian, by definition, involves belonging to the church.

This is not a book full of ideas about how your church ought to change or what it needs to do in order to grow or to be successful. Rather it is about how we fit into our own church. There are hallmarks of church life that should be stamped on all our churches because they are applicable everywhere and anywhere — New Testament values for any size of church, in any part of the world, at any time.

Devoted to God’s Church will serve to help new Christians understand what it is to be part of a church, and will also be a refreshing reminder to every Christian of what it should look like to belong to the family of God.

Reviews

• Book review by Aaron Lee
• Book review by Mark Redfern (9marks)

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Robert Traill (1642–1716) lived to span the ripest period of the Puritan age. Distinguished in the classes of Edinburgh University, Traill early felt the inner constraint to preach Christ. Although he was endowed with a first-class mind and had enjoyed a very complete theological education, Traill was above all a preacher and a pastor who strove at all times to promote practical godliness in his sermons and writings. Every reader who shares his outlook will find him warm, instructive, and encouraging.

This selection of Traill’s practical writings is an excellent introduction to the two-volume edition of his Works.

Strive for the knowledge of him. It is the ignorance of God that is the most universal cause of all the sin and misery in the world, and in the church.

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‘It is one of the clearest principles of Divine revelation, that holiness is the fruit of truth; and it is one of the plainest inferences from that principle, that the exhibition of the truth is the best means of promoting holiness. Christians regard the word of God as the only infallible teacher of those truths which relate to the salvation of men. But are the Scriptures really a revelation from God? If they are, what doctrines do they teach? And what influence should those doctrines exert on our heart and life?

The publishing committee of the American Sunday School Union have long felt the want of a book which should give a plain answer to these questions, and be suitable to place in the hands of intelligent and educated young persons, either to arouse their attention, or to guide their steps in the way of life.

If this little book should be instrumental, by the simple exhibition of the truth, in pointing out the way of life to those who are anxious to know what they must believe and what they must experience in order to be saved, it will answer the design of its preparation and publication.’

— From the Preface

Thus saith the Lord, Behold, I set before you the way of life. — Jeremiah 21:8

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‘How many people have said to you this year that these are difficult times? COVID 19 alone has produced widespread anxiety which has been coupled with widespread unrest in society, and deep-seated divisions in our political world. What are we to do? Who can draw on deep personal experience of such days to give us wise guidance? John Owen lived in precisely such a time of suffering, of terrible political divisions that cost many lives, of war and of plague. So in Searching our Hearts in Difficult Times we find the voice of Scripture married to a life of deep personal experience to bring us exactly the counsel we need.’ — SINCLAIR B. FERGUSON

Book Description

‘O that we might advise one another as to what to do; to help one another to recover from our weaknesses!’

Following Jesus is not easy. It involves self-denial, daily cross-bearing, and lifelong obedience. Salvation is promised to the one who ‘endures to the end.’ Christians need much encouragement, especially in ‘difficult times’. This the Lord supplies through pastors who love him and care for his people.

John Owen was such a pastor. One way he sought to help his fellow-believers was to hold occasional meetings for spiritual conference and fellowship at which various topics were addressed and discussed, with Owen providing a concluding summary of the proceedings.

The short chapters in Searching Our Hearts in Difficult Times contain a number of Owen’s talks and sermons on a wide range of subjects which are as relevant to Christians today as they were to believers some three and a half centuries ago.

Abridged and made easy to read.

‘In these records we are transported back three hundred and fifty years to a relatively small gathering of serious Christians. We have the privilege of eavesdropping on one of the great spiritual masters answering questions that arose in the hearts and minds of the congregation he loved and served. They are also perennial questions. Owen deals with the issues that trouble serious-minded Christians in every age: “How much conviction of sin do I need to have?” “Can sin and grace both be in my life simultaneously?” “How can I overcome a sin-habit?” “How can I be sure I really am a Christian?” We may not be able to listen to Owen’s voice on the web; but we can easily enough allow our imagination to wander back to these gatherings and almost hear his voice as we benefit form these wonderfully preserved transcripts of spiritual counsel. They are a banquet for hungry souls!’ — SINCLAIR B. FERGUSON

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‘Sinclair Ferguson is the purest kind of theologian. He draws doctrine from the text of Scripture. This, of course, gives confidence to the reader that the doctrines he explains are the ones that come correctly from the mouth of God. Nothing is more important for the believer than getting the doctrines related to sanctification and spiritual maturity right. This book is a treasury of those truths – I highly recommend it.’ — JOHN MACARTHUR

‘As Christians, we have a great need to be continually growing into spiritual maturity. But how do we realize such a worthy goal? In large measure, the answer is found in this new book by Sinclair Ferguson, Maturity. This master theologian and nurturing pastor gives us a comprehensive overview of this vitally important subject. Profound in its strategic grasp, yet easily read and digested, this is a rare book that every believer—whether new to the faith or a seasoned saint—should live with and live out.’ — STEVE LAWSON

Book Description

What are the most important lessons the New Testament has to teach us about being a Christian?

Sinclair Ferguson shows that a deep-seated concern of the writers of the New Testament was to see Christians grow to spiritual maturity—and if that was the concern of the first believers, then it should be our concern too.

In clear and logical chapters that are rooted in the reality of the Christian life, the author, who has had long experience in pastoral ministry and seminary teaching, seeks to show what Christian maturity is, and how it is to be obtained.

It was the apostle Paul’s desire to present those to whom he ministered ‘mature in Christ’—for such a maturity would lead to stable, servant-hearted Christians, and healthy, fruit-bearing churches.

All those who desire to live useful, mature, and consistent Christian lives will gain much wisdom from reading and reflecting upon the contents of this book.

The Story Behind Writing Maturity by Sinclair Ferguson.

Podcasts

• • Interview with Dr. Sinclair Ferguson on Media Gratiae’s Behold Your God Podcast

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This book, The Power and Sympathy of Christ, contains six studies on John chapter 11—one of the most remarkable chapters in all the New Testament. It deals with themes most useful and interesting to all professing believers.

Just like the rest of the human race, Christians are ‘born to trouble as the sparks fly upward’ (Job 5:7). They live in a dying world and are just as likely to suffer sickness and death as their fellow men and women. Year after year the gaps in their family circles increase; heaven seems to become more full, and earth more empty. That is why, according to J. C. Ryle, it is never too soon to look steadily at such great subjects as sorrow, sickness, death, the grave, and the power and sympathy of Christ.

This little book, drawn from Ryle’s larger work, Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, will help you do just that.

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Hundreds of biographies have been written of Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Knox and John Bunyan. But there is something unique to be gained by listening to these men tell their stories in their own words.

Here, in In Their Own Words is a collection of testimonial statements drawn from the writings of Luther, Calvin, Knox, and Bunyan. We see men who candidly confessed their sins and boldly testified to the grace, mercy, and goodness of God to them. Their testimonies illustrate the great truth stated by Paul that ‘where sin abounded, grace abounded much more, so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord’ (Rom. 5:20-21).

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Reviews

• Books at a Glance: Review by Andre A. Gazal

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Who were the Puritans? What did they seek to achieve? What were their successes and failures? Are they of any importance to Christians today?

We firmly believe that all Christians need to discover the important story of how these men and women sought to follow Jesus Christ. Their convictions resulted in a brave and joyful faith, and the writing they have left us on the Christian life continues to be a rich resource for our own discipleship. Meeting the Puritans by listening to them has enriched both of us more than we can express. And so, in The Glory of Grace, we want to introduce you to people who had a deep love for Jesus Christ and a great vision for the Christian life. We all have much to learn…

Each chapter contains a concise introduction followed by carefully selected excerpts from key Puritan works, together with suggestions for further reading.

Podcasts

• Discussion on the Puritans and the Christian life with Tim Chester — Equipping You In Grace

REVIEW

• Review by Tony Doppke
• Review by Dwell With Christ

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REVIEW

• Review by Tony Doppke

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‘Standing in the great tradition of preachers who were once lawyers, Andrew Randall skilfully unfolds from Scripture ‘the truth . . . and nothing but the truth’ about what it means to be a Christian. Fresh and compelling, shrewd and honest, winsome and reliable, Following Jesus is exactly the kind of book every young Christian should read, while at the same time it offers a wonderful review course for seasoned disciples. Read it on your own, or with others; discuss it in house groups; give it away to help a friend. It should lead you to the clear ‘verdict’–that you want to follow Jesus for the rest of your life!’ — SINCLAIR B. FERGUSON

Book Description

Joy and fruitfulness in faith do not depend on flashes of genius but on getting the basics right most of the time.

Following Jesus focuses attention on the basics of Christian discipleship, and covers the following vitally important themes: faith, the Bible, the church, prayer, the Holy Spirit, holiness, growth in grace, guidance, loving others, parenting children, evangelism, work, stewardship, suffering, and perseverance.

The chapters have been written to help new followers of Jesus lay solid foundations for a healthy and rich Christian life. They also provide a refresher course in what it means to be a disciple for those who have been following Jesus for many years.

Review

• Review by Dwell With Christ
• Review by Matthew Roberts

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Published the year after his Pilgrim’s Progress, in 1679, Bunyan’s Treatise on the Fear of God takes a widely misunderstood and neglected theme, wipes off the grime of confusion, and lets it sparkle. And sparkle really is the word: where most assume that the fear of God must be the gloomy theological equivalent of eating up your greens, Bunyan shows what a delightful and helpful subject it is.

— From the Foreword by Michael Reeves

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Endorsements

‘Sinclair Ferguson is undoubtedly one of the premier Reformed theologians in our generation. This impressive book, Some Pastors and Teachers, is solid gold, mined from the rich quarries of his many years of scholarly studies and trusted writings. Whenever a weighty volume like this appears from a man of this stature, you should put aside whatever else you are reading and pick this up. This “must read” tome is destined to become an instant classic.’ — STEVEN J. LAWSON

‘Some Pastors and Teachers will bring Sinclair Ferguson into your life as an inspiring teacher and at times as a gentle goad, helping you fan into flame the gift of God which is in you, so that you fulfill your ministry (2 Tim. 1:6; 4:5).’ — RAY ORTLUND

‘Sinclair Ferguson’s Some Pastors and Teachers is a feast for the soul.’ — WILLIAM BARCLEY

‘A treasure trove of wisdom from a seasoned pastor-professor! A book I will be returning to in ministry year after year.’ — JONNY GIBSON

Book Description

Some Pastors and Teachers is a volume for every minister’s study and indeed for the bookshelves and bedside tables of everyone who has a concern for the ministry of the gospel and the well-being of the church in the twenty-first century. In many ways, it reflects the biblical vision of what every minister is called to be: pastor, teacher, counsellor, and example—but also a man who is growing spiritually, both in understanding and in character, before the eyes of his congregation.

In five sections and thirty-nine chapters, Sinclair B Ferguson writes on pastor-teachers whose life and work have left an indelible mark on his own life, and then leads us in a series of chapters on the teaching of John Calvin, John Owen and the seventeenth century Puritans. This is followed by studies of Scripture, the ministry of the Spirit, the nature of Biblical Theology, the work of Christ, adoption, the nature of the Christian life and other important doctrines. The final section discusses various aspects of preaching, including preaching Christ from the Old Testament, the importance of theology, reaching the heart, and concludes with a decalogue for preachers. All this, as the epilogue makes clear, is set within the context and goal of doxology.

Here is a book to return to again and again, for instruction, for challenge, and also for enjoyment. While written particularly with ministers in view its style makes it accessible to all. Dr Ferguson describes Some Pastors and Teachers as a series of small gifts for fellow-ministers and others, written as an expression of the love of Christ. It is calculated to help both ministers of the gospel and entire congregations to realize Paul’s vision of churches growing up into Christ as they are nourished and taught by their pastors and teachers.

Reviews

• Review by Ray Ortlund from The Gospel Coalition
• Review by William Barcley from Tabletalk Magazine
• Review by Mike McGregor from 9marks
• Review by Ryan McGraw from Books at a Glance

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REVIEWS

• Review by Ray Ortlund (TGC)

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John Bunyan is known across the English-speaking world as the author of The Pilgrim’s Progress. But who was Bunyan, and what was it that provided him with the stimulus and inspiration to write that most revered and well-loved of allegories?

The answer can, in part, be found in Grace Abounding, for it is here that we are given a glimpse into Bunyan’s own spiritual experience. The vivid images of Pilgrim’s Progress, such as the ‘Slough of Despond’, or ‘Doubting Castle’, are brought to mind as Bunyan tells of his own pilgrimage — how he came to understand and rest in the love of God in Christ.

The full title of Bunyan’s story is Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners. Like the apostle Paul, it was the remembrance of his past sins that brought Bunyan to appreciate the great grace that God has shown towards him. Written for the benefit of his ‘spiritual children’, Bunyan’s intention was that ‘others may be put in remembrance of what he hath done for their souls, by reading his work upon me.’

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‘A short but powerful little book that does exactly what it claims—it offers comfort to those who are sick and suffering…I went through this book with pencil and highlighter in-hand and relished every page. There is so much I want to go back to and to reflect on further. But even with a single, brisk read, it spoke deeply and brought great comfort. The history of Christianity holds many treasures, and I’m grateful to Banner of Truth for finding and sharing one in A Book of Comfort for Those in Sickness. It’s a book I’d recommend to each and every Christian. Buy one for yourself and buy one to pass to someone else. You’ll benefit and they’ll be blessed.’ — TIM CHALLIES

Book Description

Suffering need not be a dark experience…

While illness brings time to think, the natural tendency of our thoughts may not be comforting.

Sickness may end activities we once enjoyed; it will make us dependent upon others; and feelings of pain, or of uselessness, or of anxiety about the future, may be very real. To those who are in sickness the author does not underestimate the strength of those hindrances to comfort.

Far from offering superficial advice, P. B. Power’s position in A Book of Comfort for Those in Sickness is that no comfort is obtainable unless there be, first, true knowledge of ourselves and, second, right knowledge of God.

His main aim is to state what this knowledge needs to be, and to show how with faith in God’s character and presence, suffering need not be a dark experience.

Review

• Review by Tim Challies

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The Psalms of Ascents (Psalms 120-134) were sung by Israelites as they made their way to Jerusalem for the annual feasts of Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. As pilgrim songs, they provide a way for believers to express their fears, needs, and aspirations as they journey through this life.

These psalms are also the songs of Jesus. In Marching to Zion you will discover how these ancient songs of Israel affect our faith today, point us to the future, and help keep our eyes on Christ every step of the way.

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Duties of Christian Fellowship deals with a matter of perennial concern for every truly Christian church. In just a few pages it sets out in very concise terms the responsibilities all Christians have, first, to their pastors, and then second, to one another within the fellowship of the local church.

John Owen was a pastor as well as a theologian and therefore this is a most practical manual of church fellowship. It was likely intended to be read by individuals with self-examination, meditation and prayer, but it would also be very suitable for group Bible study or adult Sunday School classes. This edition is enhanced by a modernized text and the addition of questions which have been added to facilitate group discussion.

Commendations

• Commendation from Tony Doppke
• Jeremy Walker on the benefits of a church studying Duties of Christian Fellowship

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Do you ever underline helpful passages in books you are reading? This is exactly what C. H. Spurgeon used to do when reading the Puritans. Whilst reading Thomas Manton, he was struck time and time again by the ‘solid, sensible instruction, forcibly delivered’ that he found there.

To Manton’s thoughts, Spurgeon added his own; the result being, as Spurgeon put it, that he cleared Manton’s house of all his pictures, and then hung them up in frames of his own. These newly framed pictures are exhibited in Flowers From a Puritan’s Garden, which Spurgeon intended to be used as an aid to meditation and prayer. Preachers will also find inspiration in these Manton-Spurgeon combinations for sensible and clear sermon illustrations.

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‘Gospel means ‘good news’. It is good news from God, about his Son Jesus Christ, for a world of perishing sinners, offering eternal life as a free gift, to be received by faith alone (John 3:16).

But the gospel does so much more than rescue us from hell and save us for heaven. It also takes possession of our lives and remakes them into the image and likeness of Jesus Christ (Rom. 8:29). This is God’s ultimate purpose for every one of his blood-bought and dearly loved children.

How does the gospel do this? And what does a gospel-shaped life look like? And what impact will such a life have on others? These are some of the questions raised and answered by Ian Hamilton in this book.

The Gospel-Shaped Life is a book for Christians of all ages. Its goal is to move us to confess with the apostle Paul, ‘Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!’ (Rom. 11:33)

Ian Hamilton on The Gospel-Shaped Life

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Numerous stories are told from John Flavel’s life of how people just ‘happened to meet him’ and yet came away deeply thankful to God, full of resolve to walk with Christ as a result. The same is true of encounters made with Flavel’s writings.

Flavel spent almost his entire ministry in a busy town serving working people. He believed that the gospel impacts and shapes every thought, every feeling, every ambition, emotion, desire, success, tragedy and joy. Christ makes all things new for the believer, and teaches us to follow him with confidence, until that day when he truly renews all things. To read Flavel is to catch and to be changed by the same vision.

Selected and Edited by Lewis Allen.

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It was said of Robert Bruce that ‘no man in his time spake with such evidence and power of the Spirit’. One is certainly left with that impression after reading The Way to True Peace and Rest, his six sermons on Isaiah 38, a chapter that records the illness that afflicted King Hezekiah of Judah and his reaction to it. Although various sicknesses are common to all humanity, yet people react in very different ways when such trials are visited upon them.

With a wonderful blend of faithful exposition, keen insight, and practical application, Bruce urges his hearers to ‘take heed to the various aspects of this account, that we may learn how to conduct ourselves in the event of our suffering some serious disease; thus, learning from King Hezekiah’s behaviour, we may come to obtain the same comfort he experienced.’

Translated and edited by David C. Searle.

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Can we be saved without any personal knowledge of the Bible’s teaching?

Is it necessary to think clearly and precisely about such teaching?

Is God’s love such that no one will ultimately suffer the everlasting loss of body and soul?

These are very important questions; the answers we give to them will have temporal and eternal consequences for us. The first thing we need to know is, where we stand before God. J. C. Ryle is absolutely right when he says, ‘To understand our position in the sight of God is one step towards heaven.’

Steps Towards Heaven is designed to help the reader take that step. Its five chapters, which clearly explain what the Bible teaches about Sin, Salvation, Conversion, Justification, and the necessity of the work of the Holy Spirit, will help to dispel the darkness of misunderstanding and bring the reader into the light of God’s truth. Above all, this book will leave the reader in no doubt that real Christianity is the outworking of a supernatural work of the Spirit of God in the human soul.

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Thomas Boston (1676-1732) was a remarkable Scottish theologian and pastor. His Works run to 12 volumes and contain some lengthy theological treatises. But Boston also wrote brief, very accessible, and pastoral books, and chief among these is the quaintly titled, The Crook in the Lot: The Sovereignty and Wisdom of God, in the Afflictions of Men Displayed. This little book is a pastoral masterpiece, in which Boston reflects on the words of Ecclesiastes 7:13, ‘Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight which he hath made crooked?’

By ‘lot’, Boston means our ‘lot in life’, the shape of our lives as they are styled by God’s many providences. By ‘crook’, he means those unforeseen troubles that afflict, unsettle, or disturb us in any way. Boston sets out to minister pastoral wisdom and help to God’s people experiencing what Paul calls ‘the sufferings of this present time’ (Rom. 8:18).

The Crook in the Lot is pastoral medicine prepared in the laboratory of Boston’s own personal and ministerial sufferings. It is little wonder that Jonathan Edwards considered Boston ‘a truly great divine’. He was indeed!

From The Foreword by Ian Hamilton

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‘…a powerful testimony to the Lord’s grace through suffering.’ — TIM CHALLIES

‘We warmly commend this book to comfort the hearts of those who have but a little while longer on this earth. Pastors, busy with visiting church members and others in difficulty, often inquire as to where they may point those who need fresh faith and hope in the midst of serious illness. Here is an excellent resource; within these blogs are hints of pastoral sources. [I Shall Not Die, But Live] is also suited to aid those in search of spiritual blessings, regardless of their circumstances in this life.’ — WALTER J. CHANTRY

‘Some people have said “is this something to give to somebody who’s dying with cancer?” Well yes, you can do that, but you know, we’re all dying, aren’t we? It’s a book for everybody. It’s short chapters, it’s very devotional at times, it’s very doctrinal at times, and I think partly because of the focus that Douglas had in his last three years of life, he writes in a way that is sharp, but it’s brief, and he really gets across a message. As I’ve read it, there have been times where I’ve been extremely challenged; and there have been times where I’ve been brought to tears just from half a page of writing. It’s very helpful, and I would recommend it highly to you.’ — JOHN RAWLINSON

Book Description

‘“Depend upon it, Sir”, said Dr Samuel Johnson, “when a man knows he is to be hanged in a fortnight, it concentrates his mind wonderfully.” Something similar may be said of a man who is diagnosed with an incurable disease which normally carries a prognosis of about six months.

‘But if that is true, what kind of self-delusion would lead him to the text that forms the title to this book: “I shall not die, but live …”? Not, certainly, any thought of dodging the arrow that has brought down every man since the fall of Adam. Rather, it is the thought that he must now focus on the things that really matter, together with the conviction that, in sober reality, he will not die till his work is done, till the things that God has intended he should accomplish are accomplished. Till then, “I shall not die, but live”; and what could be more worth doing than what the Psalmist speaks of next: “and declare
the works of the Lord”?

So wrote Douglas Taylor as he began his blog, ‘Works Worth Declaring’ on June 7, 2011. For the next three years, until his last and 651st post on May 8, 2014, he was enabled to testify to God’s saving and keeping grace.

In so doing his words had a profound impact on many around the world. ‘Thank you, Douglas for your wonderful blog. It has taught and encouraged me so much’, one lady wrote. Another noted, ‘I am so happy to have found your blog! I have a friend who is on her own journey with cancer … I sent the link to your blog to my friend.’ A reader from Louisville, Kentucky, wrote to Douglas to say, ‘I just found your blog and it brought tremendous encouragement to see your unwavering faith in the goodness of our God.’

This selection of about 245 blog posts is full of gospel comfort. It will minister fresh hope to those who, like Douglas Taylor, may have only a short time left on this earth. But it will also be very helpful to busy pastors who often inquire as to where they can point those who need fresh faith and hope in the midst of serious illness. Here is an excellent resource, the focus of which is not on a dying man but on the living Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, who has ‘abolished death’ and ‘brought life and immortality to light through the gospel’ (2 Tim 1:10).

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The goal of Knowing God and Ourselves is to help students, especially beginning students, of Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion to better understand what they are reading and to encourage them to persist in working through this important but challenging book.

Calvin intended the Institutes to be a guide in reading Scripture and a theological companion to his commentaries. Above all, he wanted his readers to respond to biblical truth with love for God and obedient lives. The subtitle of this book is Reading Calvin’s Institutes Devotionally. Reading the Institutes devotionally is not merely one way of reading Calvin’s book. It is the only way to read it.

The sections in the Institutes to be read with each chapter of this book are clearly indicated. The reading assignments are from the McNeill-Battles edition of the 1559 Institutes; but if one prefers to use the briefer but ample 1541 French edition of the Institutes, translated by Robert White (and also published by the Banner of Truth Trust), the relevant chapter and page numbers for that edition have also been added to the ‘Read’ section at the head of each chapter in this guide.

‘By nature I love brevity’, Calvin wrote. The length of the Institutes may not seem to justify Calvin’s claim, but compared with many theologies, past and present, Calvin’s book is remarkable for its lucid brevity. David Calhoun has sought to follow Calvin’s advice in Knowing God and Ourselves. It is a short and lucid guide to Calvin’s Institutes, which, in turn, is a guide to the Bible.

‘I did not read Calvin’s Institutes until I was in my doctoral studies at Princeton Theological Seminary. I have been reading this book ever since, along with other writings by Calvin and books about Calvin. For twenty-five years, I taught a course in the Institutes at Covenant Theological Seminary. I do not idolize Calvin, but my respect for him as a teacher and pastor has grown through the years. Facing the daily task of living, with its many demands and pressures, struggling with incurable cancer, and trying to find a way to understand the chaos and grimness of world events unfolding around me, I have found Calvin a source of solidity and strength. Enjoying the gift of life, the blessing of love of family and friends, the joy of food and drink, the beauty of nature, and the wonder of it all, I have discovered in Calvin a fellow pilgrim whose words often reflected and focused my feelings and helped me to fix my eyes on heaven and to give thanks. Calvin also challenges me, rebukes me, and leads me on, gently but firmly, toward greater love for God and obedience to his word. I pray that your study of Calvin’s Institutes will bring you great blessing also.’

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