CHRISTIAN READER,

This book is a study of the doctrines of Grace.  These doctrines are the truths of God.  The author of this book has defended them masterfully. He has not only proved them to be plainly revealed in the Scriptures, but has also shown that they are of great importance to the children of God for daily use.  If Christians did not believe them strongly they would not be able to go on their way rejoicing.  It is from understanding these doctrines alone that a settled peace can rule the conscience, the love of God be maintained in the heart, and a holy walk is kept up and Christian warfare that reflects the Gospel is seen.  It is from them that all good works proceed, and that all fruits of holiness abound, to the praise of the glory of the grace of God.

In the practical view of these points Elisha Coles is singularly excellent. He has brought these deep truths into the Christian’s daily use, and has proved them to be absolutely necessary in daily experience.  So we see these doctrines are not only “truths,” but are “useful truths” to the Christian.  On these two accounts his book has been greatly esteemed by true Christians.  On these I would recommend it (as approved in my own judgment): that it is an excellent study of Word of God, and that these truths are so useful that until I received them in my heart I could not enjoy the blessings and comforts of the precious Gospel.

Opposition to these doctrines will always be made as long as there are people in the world who place some confidence in the flesh.  These people are pleased with their own works, and fond of taking credit to themselves.  But the word of God is not of doubtful interpretation to those who rejoice in Christ Jesus.  They are thankful for a free grace salvation, and while they enjoy the things that accompany it, with their lips and lives they desire to bless the God of all their mercies.

This is a new edition and I recommend it to my friends from my heart. I wish it might be as useful to all who read it, as it has been to me.  May the Lord bless it, and allow it to be the means of building up his people in their most holy faith!

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