Puritan Quotations
Some Great Quotes From the Best Puritan WorksThe Puritans have no doubt profoundly affected me and my walk with Christ. They have drawn me closer to Christ, and as a result, I have an affinity to them and their work. One study of the 1647 Westminster Confession will have any thoughtful Christian hooked on the greatness of Puritan Theology.
The quotes are mostly taken from puritan works that we’ve published through Puritan Publications.
Afflictions are sent and sanctified to bring us to Christ because often nothing else will. John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 39.
The improvement of all afflictions should be to bring your soul to Christ. John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 52.
Legal humiliation is like a father sending an unruly child to a magistrate, where the child may be punished or even sent to prison. But Gospel humiliation is like a father dealing with the child himself, using a stern tone and hard words to bring the child into submission. John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 77.
First, observe that it is true faith alone that carries the soul through all difficulties and discouragements on the way to Christ. John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 151.
The whip or a blow may stir the horse into action, but it does not strengthen it. A conviction of need or a fear of Hell may stir us to go to Christ, but it does not enable or enliven us. Beloved, faith is the grace that strengthens. “The just shall live by faith,” (Hebrews 10:38). John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 158.
For without faith it is impossible to please God or come to Christ. John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 165.
When the time comes for you to die, you will then see your need for Christ (if you do not already), and if you do not have a living faith, you cannot have a living Christ, and your soul will be dead before death comes. Faith is much more than the world realizes. We scarcely understand it now, but we will never fully grasp its preciousness until we experience it firsthand. The greatest experience of faith is found in the act of coming to Christ. It is in that process that we truly learn the value, the power, and the price of faith. Whatever else we have or pretend to have, only sincere, pure faith will carry us to Jesus Christ. John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 168.
for certainly, just as Jesus Christ will deal kindly with those who truly come to Him at last, so He will deal exceedingly harshly with those who, despite all His kindness, deal poorly with Him. If Jesus Christ (man or woman) will deal well with the soul that waited long, because it waited until the end, then He will deal harshly with you (whoever you are), who, despite all His kindness to you, remain rebellious to this day. O, tremble to think what Christ will do at last! He will judge, condemn, and destroy you, the one upon whom He has waited long and who yet refused to come in. John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 185.
Blessed are we when God’s corrections are our lessons, His punishments our teachers, His chastisements our guidance. John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 234.
Among many things, we must consider how to hold our peace, how to be silent without distracting our souls, without complaining against God, and without hindering our learning through affliction. We must be silent in a way that composes our spirits, consents to the Lord’s dealings, and seeks to understand the lessons of affliction. This is our duty, and thus Aaron acted. John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 252.
My brethren, unguarded words are like rebellious enemies; they will break free unless they are contained. You might say, “I am not strong enough to keep a watch.” Then pray, “Lord, keep a watch for me.” John Durant, Christ’s Compassion in Our Trials, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 265.
It is a great disadvantage to mistake good nature for grace, for we deceive ourselves into thinking we have gone far enough toward God because we wish well to all and no harm to any. But it must be known that good nature, even at its best, is not grace. It is full of characteristics that fight against grace, not having in it that true knowledge and love of God nor that inward purity which is required. For when one does what seem to be good works, if they do not proceed from a heart truly sanctified by God, they are nothing more than glossed-over sins issuing from a corrupt fountain and tending to the sea of death. Francis Rous, Puritan Meditations, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 29.
As no man can see God and live, so no natural man can see Christ who is God as long as he lives as a mere natural man. Francis Rous, Puritan Meditations, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 61.
The place of faith is first in the understanding, but working downward on the will and affections it joins us to Christ. Faith is not only essential for union but also for all the benefits and fruits coming from that union, of which works are a part. Francis Rous, Puritan Meditations, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 108.
For nothing but God can turn man’s heart to God. … We have also in addition to our fleshly will a will directly contrary to it which hates the former will and the sinful pleasures in which that will chiefly delighted; and loves even the persecutions of Christ, which the natural will especially hated. Thus, by the new birth, light is created, in the midst of the darkness and a rightness of will is formed where there was nothing but crookedness, and such a light and will that they alter the affections, actions, and whole course of man. Francis Rous, Puritan Meditations, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 134, 139.
As the soul is infinitely better than the body, and life eternal than life present, so the food of the soul is far better than that of the body, and the saving of the spiritual life better than the preservation of the temporal life. Francis Rous, Puritan Meditations, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 168.
Just as sincerity requires not only serving God but also knowing and willingly doing His will, similarly, in the matter of hypocrisy, it is not merely committing sins but knowing them and hiding them that makes one a hypocrite. John Durant, Comfort and Counsel for Dejected Souls, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 84.
Christ died not only to free you from the condemnation of sin in the future but also to deliver you from its conquest here and now. In His death, you died, and by its virtue, sin within you will be crucified. The Apostle encourages you to reckon on this truth (Romans 6:11). John Durant, Comfort and Counsel for Dejected Souls, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 95.
You may misunderstand greatly if you think that dejection is or can be a time for doubt. No, it is the season for faith. John Durant, Comfort and Counsel for Dejected Souls, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 236.
When God is absent from ruling one’s passions and controlling corrupt affections, only fire remains, and it is a fire that can quickly consume a household. Josiah Shute, Sarah and Hagar, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 119.
We should all learn to submit to God’s ways, allowing Him to do with us as He sees fit, even if it means enduring pain for a while. Josiah Shute, Sarah and Hagar, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 182.
If people could not even look at Moses when God’s splendor shone upon him without him veiling himself, they would certainly be unable to endure the glory and splendor of angels without physical bodies. Josiah Shute, Sarah and Hagar, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 189.
If we do not allow the Law to be our bridle to restrain us from sin, it will become our scourge to punish us for our sins. Josiah Shute, Sarah and Hagar, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 270.
Adam’s disobedience in eating the forbidden fruit has distorted the judgment of his descendants to the point where they often speak well of and sympathize with those who hate God and are hated by humanity. Josiah Shute, Sarah and Hagar, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 284.
If we do not experience what others have, we have only ourselves to blame. We may want the same favor that David received, but do we repent as he did? We may desire the same favor as Peter, but do we weep as he did? We may seek a return of our prayers as Elijah did, but do we pray as fervently as he did? We may hope for a happy outcome from our afflictions, but are we as humble under God’s hand as His children have been? Josiah Shute, Sarah and Hagar, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 315.
While there are many ways in the world, only the way of godliness, Christianity, and the Word of God, leads to eternal life. The Works of Henry Greenwood, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 35.
To believe means to have a firm and resolute assent or consent of the heart to God’s Word, guided by the Holy Spirit toward the salvation of believers. Faith’s material cause is the Word of God, its formal cause is the act of consent, its efficient cause is the Holy Spirit, and its final cause is the salvation of our souls. The Works of Henry Greenwood, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 60.
Christ’s righteousness is like a wedding garment that covers our nakedness on the day of judgment, and faith is the hand of the soul that puts it on. The Works of Henry Greenwood, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 100.
In the world, there is a four-fold invitation, yet only one leads to salvation. The devil says, “Come unto me, but I will destroy you.” The world says, “Follow me, but I will deceive you.” The flesh says, “Follow me, but I will fail you.” Christ alone says, “Come unto me, and I will refresh you.” The Works of Henry Greenwood, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 260.
“Just as a wise individual chooses a residence that upholds his reputation and meets all his needs, so Christ finds His dwelling in a humble heart, the most suitable place to manifest His glory.” Thomas Hooker, Putting on Christ (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 29.
“We abide in Christ when the eye is fixed upon Christ, when the tongue continually speaks of Christ, when the mind dwells on him, and when the affections are directed towards him. But when the mind is taken off the promise and the comforts found therein, amusing itself by thinking of temptations or inward corruptions, then we are overcome.” Thomas Hooker, Putting on Christ (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 57.
“He that thus walks with Christ here, shall live with him forever hereafter.” Thomas Hooker, Putting on Christ (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 62.
“But be forewarned, if you will live in your sins here, expect to be damned with them hereafter.” Thomas Hooker, Putting on Christ (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 83.
“Sincerity encompasses more than merely praising holiness. It involves actively striving for holiness.” Nicholas Lockyer, Biblical Sincerity Discovered, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2024) 34.
“Everyone, whether parents, masters, or rulers, should be obeyed only as far as their instructions align with God’s will. If we choose to ignore God’s commandments to please others, we risk facing judgment both in this world and the next.” Josiah Shute, Divine Judgment and Mercy in the Second Plague (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 67.
“For the general populace, recognize the importance of ministers since God has elevated them. He created you without them, but He won’t save you without them. Respect them and follow their teachings, for true respect for a minister lies in practicing what he preaches.” Josiah Shute, Divine Judgment and Mercy in the Second Plague (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 102.
“Next, always be wary of persisting in wrongdoing. Pharaoh faced one judgment and then another. Similarly, those who defy God and remain unyielding will experience escalating judgments. Many believe that if they’ve escaped a particular misfortune once, they are safe for a long time. This is a misguided belief.” Josiah Shute, Divine Judgment and Mercy in the Second Plague (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 109.
“It’s evident that wicked people are more disturbed by the consequences of their actions than by the actions themselves. Pharaoh wants the frogs gone; he doesn’t ask for a change of heart or a fresh start. Sinful individuals are more bothered by the consequences than the sin itself, wishing for physical relief more than the healing of their souls.” Josiah Shute, Divine Judgment and Mercy in the Second Plague (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 140.
“The sin of pride is so ingrained in us that even when other sins decrease, pride grows.” Josiah Shute, Divine Judgment and Mercy in the Second Plague (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 154.
“Beware, if God is not first in His glory, our own glory will be our downfall.” Josiah Shute, Divine Judgment and Mercy in the Second Plague (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications 2024) 180.
“One might spend everything to be cured, as did the woman in the Gospel with the issue of blood, yet unless God wills it, it will do no good. Saul might go to the Witch of Endor for help, and Amaziah to the god of Ekron to be healed, but unless the God of heaven works the cure, it will never be done.” Josiah Shute, Ezra’s Covenant Renewal and the Pursuit of a Lasting Reformation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 30.
“The devil deceives many by presenting sin as attractive, but he lies. Sin is a burden, and hell is as hot as it is described.” Josiah Shute, Ezra’s Covenant Renewal and the Pursuit of a Lasting Reformation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 46.
“True repentance is when a man grieves for his sin to the extent that he abandons it.” Josiah Shute, Ezra’s Covenant Renewal and the Pursuit of a Lasting Reformation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 50.
“Learn to esteem and value ministers who deal faithfully with your souls. A flattering ministry will ruin the people. Flattery from a minister is worse than flattery from a friend, for such a minister flatters a man not out of his goods and lands but out of his soul and salvation.” Josiah Shute, Ezra’s Covenant Renewal and the Pursuit of a Lasting Reformation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 106.
“In a regenerated person, God’s Word not only instills a fear of displeasing God but also a determination to strive for complete obedience throughout their life and conduct.” Josiah Shute, Ezra’s Covenant Renewal and the Pursuit of a Lasting Reformation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 148.
“You now imagine a God made all of mercy and compassion; but if you saw just a shadow of God’s wrath on a damned soul in hell, it would make your heart ache, your joints quake, and rottenness enter your bones.” James Nalton, Delay in Reformation Provokes God’s Indignation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 65.
“It is foolish to hide our sores while they can be healed, only to reveal them when they are incurable. Similarly, it is folly to hide our sins while they may be remedied, and later shamefully expose them when they are irreparable. This tangent is brief, as we’ll explore it.” Richard Greenham, quoted in James Nalton, Delay in Reformation Provokes God’s Indignation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 89.
“Holiness possesses an internal pleasantness that is better felt than expressed.” Richard Allestree, The Beauty of holiness (Crossville, TN: 2023) 67.
“Why should those who defile their souls, prefer temporal happiness over eternal felicity, and blindly expose themselves to the wrath of a God who punishes sin, be considered wise?” Richard Allestree, The Beauty of holiness (Crossville, TN: 2023) 77.
“Holiness is the best evidence of being in favor with God and of adoption into God’s family.” Richard Allestree, The Beauty of holiness (Crossville, TN: 2023) 80.
“He that sets God in his presence, dares not sin in his presence.” Thomas Case, The Quarrel of the Covenant, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 115.
“When old sins cost dear, new sins will not find entertainment. When old sins are new afflictions, when the remembrance of them is as wormwood and gall, the soul will not easily be bewitched to drink a new draught of that poisoned cup anymore.” Thomas Case, The Quarrel of the Covenant, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 102.
“A man’s enemies are these of his own house. No quarrel is so fierce, no feud so mortal, as those between the nearest relations when coals of division are once kindled among them.” Thomas Case, The Quarrel of the Covenant, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 56.
“Whoever prescribes any rules or models to God, besides what he has given and framed himself, deifies his own understanding against infinite wisdom.” Timothy Cruso, Discourses on the Rich Man and Lazarus, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 118.
“Idleness is an ideal soil for sins to grow and thrive in.” Timothy Cruso, Discourses on the Rich Man and Lazarus, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 26.
“There is nothing to be endured on earth that can be matched with the pains of hell; all the anguish and horror a soul can feel in this world is more than tolerable when compared with what they feel in that world, where there can be no hope or possibility of relief.” Timothy Cruso, Discourses on the Rich Man and Lazarus, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 52.
“That which makes death so formidable is not the dissolution of our present state so much as it is an introduction to future misery.” Timothy Cruso, Discourses on the Rich Man and Lazarus, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 55.
“The guilt of every sin is infinite by reason of the object against whom it is committed, and this can never be expiated by the utmost torments of a finite creature.” Timothy Cruso, Discourses on the Rich Man and Lazarus, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 88.
“Sinful company is the carnal man’s heaven in this world, and yet the same company will be an ungrateful ingredient of his future hell.” Timothy Cruso, Discourses on the Rich Man and Lazarus, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2023) 99.
“Let us not overlook this one point of doctrine, which is that the purchase of Truth is of absolute necessity to all who will be wise for their souls.” Truth, the Great Business of Our Times, by John Maynard, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 19.
“To pretend to possess Truth but not allow it that sovereignty due it is indeed to reject it. Let Truth rule your judgment, will, and affections in all things.” Truth, the Great Business of Our Times, by John Maynard, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 37.
“If you please yourselves in your own conceits and vain imaginations that are contrary to the wisdom of Christ, believing that it is an easy thing to go to heaven and that you hope to be saved in the end, although you are carried with the stream of the world, the tide of your lusts, the wind of Satan’s suggestions and applause of the multitude, assure yourselves that you are rebels against Christ and are on the path to eternal destruction.” Truth, the Great Business of Our Times, by John Maynard, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 90.
“The lack of mercy sends us to prayer; the enjoyment of mercy sends us to praises.” Samuel Bolton, The Wonderful Workings of God for His Church and People, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publ;ications, 2022), 13.
“Self-abasing is the lifting up of Christ.” John Maynard, A Shadow of the Victory of Christ, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publictions, 2022) 41.
“God’s promises are never nearer fulfilling than when to sense and reason they seem furthest from fulfilling. This was Abraham’s case, when at God’s command he was about to sacrifice his son Isaac.” Samuel Bolton, The Wonderful Workings of God for His Church and People, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022), 46.
“He that is not a good treasurer of mercies has nothing to draw upon in future difficulties. But he who lays up experiences and makes use of them to feed upon and draw strength from is enabled to depend on God in all future difficulties.” Samuel Bolton, The Wonderful Workings of God for His Church and People, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publ;ications, 2022), 84.
“It is bad enough when God’s people allow themselves to become corrupt and degenerate. But it is worse when they continue to do so and refuse to be reclaimed. They are to be blamed on a double account.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 20.
“Whatever pretenses men make of being thankful for the word of God, when they speak of having light and grace as a privilege while not yielding themselves to the obedience to the light nor conforming themselves to the commands of it, they are not truly thankful at all (Neh. 9:26).” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 21.
“Where God’s image is lost, Satan’s image is introduced.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 52.
“The great controversy that men have against Christ is his government; they will not have him rule over them.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 60.
“Sin will be burdensome if the Savior is precious to you.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 88.
“It is not the preparation of a sovereign remedy that cures a disease, but the application of it. The righteousness and spirit of Christ, however sufficient for the ends to which they are provided, convey no pardon to any soul that is not by faith united to him.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 128.
“Christ came not to make the law void but rather to explain and enforce it, that he might render holiness more evident and raise his people to greater exercise in it than ever before. And it should be the aim and design of all Christians, for Christ’s sake as well as their own and others, that their graces may be resplendent in the holiness and universal righteousness that as the apostle directs, “they may adorn the gospel,” (Titus 2:10), and walk worthy of their relationship to God (Col. 1:10).” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 165.
“It is bad enough when God’s people allow themselves to become corrupt and degenerate. But it is worse when they continue to do so and refuse to be reclaimed. They are to be blamed on a double account.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 20.
“Whatever pretenses men make of being thankful for the word of God, when they speak of having light and grace as a privilege while not yielding themselves to the obedience to the light nor conforming themselves to the commands of it, they are not truly thankful at all (Neh. 9:26).” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 21.
“Where God’s image is lost, Satan’s image is introduced.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 52.
“The great controversy that men have against Christ is his government; they will not have him rule over them.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 60.
“Sin will be burdensome if the Savior is precious to you.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 88.
“It is not the preparation of a sovereign remedy that cures a disease, but the application of it. The righteousness and spirit of Christ, however sufficient for the ends to which they are provided, convey no pardon to any soul that is not by faith united to him.” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 128.
“Christ came not to make the law void but rather to explain and enforce it, that he might render holiness more evident and raise his people to greater exercise in it than ever before. And it should be the aim and design of all Christians, for Christ’s sake as well as their own and others, that their graces may be resplendent in the holiness and universal righteousness that as the apostle directs, “they may adorn the gospel,” (Titus 2:10), and walk worthy of their relationship to God (Col. 1:10).” William Williams, The Danger of Not Reforming Known Evils, and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 165.
“Let us not overlook this one point of doctrine, which is that the purchase of Truth is of absolute necessity to all who will be wise for their souls.” Truth, the Great Business of Our Times, by John Maynard, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 19.
“To pretend to possess Truth but not allow it that sovereignty due it is indeed to reject it. Let Truth rule your judgment, will, and affections in all things.” Truth, the Great Business of Our Times, by John Maynard, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 37.
“If you please yourselves in your own conceits and vain imaginations that are contrary to the wisdom of Christ, believing that it is an easy thing to go to heaven and that you hope to be saved in the end, although you are carried with the stream of the world, the tide of your lusts, the wind of Satan’s suggestions and applause of the multitude, assure yourselves that you are rebels against Christ and are on the path to eternal destruction.” Truth, the Great Business of Our Times, by John Maynard, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 90.
“The lack of mercy sends us to prayer; the enjoyment of mercy sends us to praises.” Samuel Bolton, The Wonderful Workings of God for His Church and People, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publ;ications, 2022), 13.
“Self-abasing is the lifting up of Christ.” John Maynard, A Shadow of the Victory of Christ, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publictions, 2022) 41.
“God’s promises are never nearer fulfilling than when to sense and reason they seem furthest from fulfilling. This was Abraham’s case, when at God’s command he was about to sacrifice his son Isaac.” Samuel Bolton, The Wonderful Workings of God for His Church and People, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publ;ications, 2022), 46.
“He that is not a good treasurer of mercies has nothing to draw upon in future difficulties. But he who lays up experiences and makes use of them to feed upon and draw strength from is enabled to depend on God in all future difficulties.” Samuel Bolton, The Wonderful Workings of God for His Church and People, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publ;ications, 2022), 84.
Ordinarily when we are burdened with outward afflictions, we only think of natural helps and comforts. Whereas the way for us to sanctify God’s name, to do what is acceptable to God when any outward affliction comes, is to exercise our faith in the great promise of God in Jesus Christ, upon the great Covenant of Grace that God has made with us in him. Jeremiah Burroughs, The Wonders of Jesus, (Crossville, TN, Puritan Publications, 2022) 21.
Herein lies the evil of man’s inventions, when man’s inventions replace a spiritual ordinance of God, it becomes sinful and wicked. For nothing that is spiritual to draw my heart nearer to God, or God nearer to me, is of man. Jeremiah Burroughs, The Wonders of Jesus, (Crossville, TN, Puritan Publications, 2022) 41.
God never showed his hatred of sin so much as he did in Christ. When God sent his Son into the world to die for man’s sin, he is saying, “they shall see the extent to which I hate sin in how I deal with my son.” Jeremiah Burroughs, The Wonders of Jesus, (Crossville, TN, Puritan Publications, 2022) 78.
True repentance is never too late, and late repentance is seldom true. Charles Herle, A Devotional on Our Savior’s Death and Passion, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 123.
What did it benefit Saul that he was a prophet, or Judas that he was an apostle? For outward duty without inward grace – physical proximity without spiritual transformation – serves only to enhance and dis-excuse a man’s damnation. True and lasting benefit from knowing the Lord can only be found when you welcome him into your heart. Charles Herle, A Devotional on Our Savior’s Death and Passion, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 132.
No man rejects the principles of Christianity because his reason runs counter to them, but because his lusts control his reason and corrupt his judgment. Jonathan Dickinson, The Reasonableness of Christianity, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 17.
He who has made us rational creatures expects from us a reasonable service and cannot be pleased with that faith, practice, or hope that is grounded on education or common opinion instead of the result of rational reflection or inquiry. Jonathan Dickinson, The Reasonableness of Christianity, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 19.
Nothing could provide a greater discovery of God’s relentless opposition to sin than the amazing sufferings of his own dear Son. This demonstrates sin to be a weight that even infinite mercy could not bear, in that the blood of his well-beloved son must be the only sacrifice to appease his displeasure against it; and that he could without relenting, behold the bitter agonies of him with whom he was well pleased when he was made sin for us. This shows us that he is glorious in holiness. Jonathan Dickinson, The Reasonableness of Christianity, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 62.
Christianity consists not merely in speculation, but in practice. We must not only give our assent to the truth of the gospel, but give up our hearts to Christ. The faith which he requires is not a slight superficial belief that he is the Redeemer of mankind, but such a faith as will form us into subjection and obedience to himself. Jonathan Dickinson, The Reasonableness of Christianity, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 125.
God has instilled in man’s heart this restless desire after happiness which cannot be fulfilled with anything less than himself for eternity. Thomas Doolittle, Man’s Life in Light of Eternity, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 33.
Death is dreadful to the ungodly because it opens the door into everlasting misery. But it is blessed to all those who have been imbued with saving grace because it transports them into everlasting happiness. Thomas Doolittle, Man’s Life in Light of Eternity, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2022) 49.
This is a singular comfort, that all things come to pass not according to wicked men’s counsels, but according to what God determines. George Gifford, The Great Mystery of God’s Providence and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 23.
We are much obliged to God for keeping wicked men and devils in bonds and for limiting their malice and enmity, for if God gave leave to them to execute their power and malice, all the world would quickly be in flames. George Gifford, The Great Mystery of God’s Providence and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 29.
If we are to be right reformers, we must begin with ourselves. For how can we be fit to teach others if we do not teach ourselves first? What good can come from that? Can a man be concerned that another should be saved and be godly, and not care for godliness and salvation in himself? Can he pity the souls of other men if he does not pity his own? Again, what manner of rebuking is it that rigorously points out another’s fault while overlooking their own? George Gifford, The Great Mystery of God’s Providence and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 107.
For what a miserable thing it is when Christ has given us warning so plainly, for a man to be zealous for the Gospel, not only willing to hear, but possessing an earnest desire, taking pleasure and delight when he hears, yet because he does not take heed to do according to what he hears, his hearing only further increases his damnation. George Gifford, The Great Mystery of God’s Providence and Other Works, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 204.
As the devil would only dwell in a house that was swept from godliness (Luke 11:25), so the graces of God will not come into the heart that is not cleansed from wickedness, for God will only pour new wine into new vessels (Matt. 9:17). Henry Smith, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 32.
The heart must first be sanctified and then afterwards instructed, as iron must first be heated and afterwards fashioned. Henry Smith, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 34.
We have some love of the truth, but we have no courage to labor for it. We are like a merchant that would gladly gain but dares not venture the seas for fear of drowning. Henry Smith, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 41.
Men may read or hear the word diligently, but without meditation it bears no fruit. Meditation makes that which we have read become our own. Richard Greenham, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 60.
So, if any are without spiritual understanding, though they have long heard the word, it is because God has not revealed his will to them. Men may be diligent to read and hear the word, yet they shall not profit by it if God does not infuse the hearing of his word by his Spirit. Richard Greenham, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 65.
For although the act of hearing is most properly directed to our receiving of the will of God, yet when we subject our consciences to God in so receiving, we honor him as the possessor of power and divine truth, the acknowledgment of which is the basis of religious worship. Second, it contains a direct and immediate exercise of faith, hope, and charity in which the essential worship of God is chiefly found. William Ames, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 70.
The real act of pride is a contempt of either God or the will of God and its observance. William Ames, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 71.
Saving faith is always fruitful; and that faith which is not fruitful is not true faith. The apostle does not deny that we are justified by faith, and only by faith; but he denies that faith without works is a true faith. It is only an empty notion; and such a faith cannot justify nor save a man.Thomas Senior, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 77.
Proud men cannot endure scrutiny, either by the public ministry, or by a private admonition. Thomas Senior, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 91.
The word brings one nearer heaven or further from it, it does good or harm, makes better or worse. It is either a quickening spirit or killing letter. David Clarkson, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 103.
Take heed that you do not suppress any good motions that are raised by the word. Constant hearers are convicted of sin and resolve to leave it and attend to the soul. Nourish these experiences and do not extinguish them. They are the blessed issues of heaven. David Clarkson, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 132.
Heaven is not a place for sluggards of the word. Ignorance of truth is a curse; and if it is your choice, it will as surely be your destruction. Daniel Burgess, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 145.
Christian holiness is an art of doing more than knowing God’s will, remembering it, and temporarily purposing to do it. It is a continual obedience to God’s word and sacraments through repentant faith. Daniel Burgess, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 148.
Naked speculation leads to receiving truth in regard to its evidence. But when it has a prevailing sovereignty in the heart, then we receive it in love. When it is dearer than our dearest lust, then it will stick by us, that is, when we are willing to sell all for the pearl of great price (Matt. 13:46). We are often brought to decide between our lusts and the truth. When it breaks in upon the heart with evidence and power, you cannot keep both. Therefore, let it soak into the affections, and hide the word in your hearts, that you may not sin against God. Thomas Manton, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 164.
If the Bible teaches you something contrary to your theological view, you change your view and follow the Scripture, which will never contradict itself. C. Matthew McMahon, et al. A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word of God, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 173.
That is the beauty of Christian fellowship, not the communication of their gifts, but the virtue of the Christ on their spirits. If there is anything alluring in this world, it is the virtue of Christ seen in his people. McMahon, C. Matthew, I Am for You: God’s Power in Supporting His People, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 53.
As flowers are the joy of plants, so joy is the blossom of our graces. Nathaniel Holmes, God, A Rich Supply of All Good, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 64.
Even as true believers do not make an end of sinning, so God cannot make an end of pardoning. And as his pardoning removes our fear of sin, so it also removes our love of sin. His good will replaces our ill will (Rom. 7). Nathaniel Holmes, God, A Rich Supply of All Good, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 42.
If a man’s estate serves his need and is good for his spirit, he has everything that can be desired. Nathaniel Holmes, God, A Rich Supply of All Good, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 20.
It is meditation that makes you master of the truths that you read or hear; otherwise, the wisdom remains in the book. William Bridge, The Sweetness of Divine Meditation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 32.
If wicked men are blamed because God is not in their thoughts, then surely God should remain consistently in the believer’s thoughts. William Bridge, The Sweetness of Divine Meditation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 52.
The reason we meditate little is because we love God little. … When a man hears the word of God in public or in private but does not continue to meditate on it afterward, it is because it has made no impression on him. William Bridge, The Sweetness of Divine Meditation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 62.
Knowledge brings us to the door of truth, but meditation opens the door to the house and takes us into all its rooms. This is the way to enter into the secret places of the things of God. William Bridge, The Sweetness of Divine Meditation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 73.
The more the heart of any man is devoted to meditation, the more pregnant his words will be in the praises of God. William Bridge, The Sweetness of Divine Meditation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 53.
God’s divine kingship consisting in the absolute rule over the whole world, for the good of his people and for the overthrow of any power that opposes his rule, is a central theme of salvation from a human point of view. C. Matthew McMahon, The Kingdom of Heaven is Upon You, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 22.
Men cannot usher in the kingdom into their heart, for the King must bring them into his kingdom, which is the theme of both the preaching of John and the Christ. C. Matthew McMahon, The Kingdom of Heaven is Upon You, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 50.
Irreverence at a sermon is a public call to God for damnation. Daniel Burgess (1645-1713) et. al., A Biblical Guide to Hearing and Studying the Word (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 144.
Between God and his people there is a league of love, and repentance removes the matter of God’s anger and displeasure. Fire no longer burns if the fuel does not feed it. Our sins are the fuel of his wrath. When repentance removes them, his wrath ceases. Ralph Brownrig, Repentance and Prayer (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 27.
As repentance is a returning to God, it is a work of conversion. And on the contrary, sinning is a departing from God and a forsaking of God. Ralph Brownrig, Repentance and Prayer (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 40.
The ministry of the word is the great sanctifying instrument that works repentance in us. Ralph Brownrig, Repentance and Prayer (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 48.
Original sin, though perfectly pardoned, is yet imperfectly purged. At the point of salvation, we are purged from the death of sin but not from the disease of it. Ralph Brownrig, Repentance and Prayer (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 61.
All the temptations of Satan are actions of cunning and not of power. He may persuade and seduce us by the dexterity of his skill, but he cannot force and compel us. Though he has a great deal of power and strength and cunning, he may circumvent us. But he cannot powerfully overthrow us. It is not in the power of Satan to force the will of any to yield to his temptations. Ralph Brownrig, Repentance and Prayer (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 84.
If parents do not prevent sins in their children at home, when they go into the world, they meet with temptations which turn their youthful flings into immoveable habits. It is easy to observe, that the lack of family religion is the cause of the visible decay of the welfare of church and state. Thomas Risley, The Cursed Family, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 29.
The truth is that wicked men do not use riches; their riches use them in their luxury, pride, oppression, pleasures and showiness. Thomas Risley, The Cursed Family, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 52.
It is most certain that the church cannot flourish unless the parts and members of it perform holy duties and offices in their capacities, both in church and at home. The lack of religion in families is the decay of churches…The degree of piety in families directly determines the strength and prosperity of the church and Christ’s kingdom. Thomas Risley, The Cursed Family, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 67.
Love is the commanding affection of the soul, consisting in the expansion of the heart as it moves towards a person or thing in hopes and workings for its good. John Durant, Discovering the Glorious Love of Christ, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 23.
As nothing in believers was so good as to cause him to love them, nothing is so bad as can cause him to withdraw his love again. John Durant, Discovering the Glorious Love of Christ, 49.
The Spirit of God is not the fruit of our prayers, but our prayers are the fruit of God’s Spirit. Ralph Brownrig, Repentance and Prayer, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 66.
Satan takes more pleasure in the ruin and overthrow of one Christian then in the damnation of a thousand others. Ralph Brownrig, Repentance and Prayer, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 72.
An incorrigible attitude in the use of the means of reformation turns God from us. Ralph Brownrig, Repentance and Prayer, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 22.
In their own houses, parents are both magistrates and ministers in a subordinate way, charged with training up a hopeful generation for church and kingdom. Thomas Risley, The Cursed Family, or, A Short Tract, Showing the Pernicious Influence of Wicked Prayerless Houses, on this Church and Kingdom, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 61.
The degree of piety in families directly determines the strength and prosperity of the church and Christ’s kingdom. Thomas Risley, The Cursed Family, or, A Short Tract, Showing the Pernicious Influence of Wicked Prayerless Houses, on this Church and Kingdom, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 56.
Were the life of sinful men prolonged forever on earth, they would sin forever. And since the guilt and filth of sin descends into hell with the impenitent, and the damned are ever living and ever sinning, therefore, it is just that their punishment run parallel with their sinning. Thomas Risley, The Cursed Family, or, A Short Tract, Showing the Pernicious Influence of Wicked Prayerless Houses, on this Church and Kingdom, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 50.
Do not be deceived, for if you are not Christians in your own houses, whatever profession you make in the house of God regarding your Christianity is unsound. Thomas Risley, The Cursed Family, or, A Short Tract, Showing the Pernicious Influence of Wicked Prayerless Houses, on this Church and Kingdom, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 14.
God knows we have many miseries, so he balances it with his many mercies. Nathanael Holmes, God, a Rich Supply of All Good, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 61.
Though you read much and hear much, if you do not meditate on what you read and hear, it will amount to little; you will never be any the wiser. William Bridge, The Sweetness of Divine Meditation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 30.
What is the reason that men do not grow in grace? It is because sermons, like loads of fertilizer, are laid on the soul but remain unspread by the hand of meditation. William Bridge, The Sweetness of Divine Meditation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 34.
In the times of the Old Testament, they came to Christ through God. But in the time of the New Testament, we go to God through Christ. William Bridge, The Sweetness of Divine Meditation, (Crossville, TN: Puritan Publications, 2021) 65.
Reading without meditation is unfruitful; meditation without reading is hurtful; to meditate and to read without prayer upon both is without blessing. Richard Greenham, The Works of the Reverend and Faithfull Servant of Jesus Christ, Mr. Richard Greenham, in One Volume, (London: Thomas Snodham and Thomas Creede, 1612), 175.
When we own God, and own ourselves to be no others but his, faith draws Christ down to us.Nathaniel Holmes, God, a Rich Supply of All Good, 18.
Ungodly families are the decay of God’s church. They make thin congregations; they bring waste upon the solemn assemblies. Thomas Risley (1630-1716), The Cursed Family, 19.
I cannot help but think those blame-worthy who in these times flaunt their abilities to hammer out some of the more controversial truths of Scripture, and yet neglect the study of his love which is of such necessary importance. I do not altogether blame those who study the headship of Christ; yet to study the head of Christ, while neglecting his heart – to mind his government and yet neglect his love – is without doubt, a thing to be reproved. John Durant (1620-1686), Discovering the Glorious Love of Christ, 113.
The lost continue in sin, deceiving themselves with vain hope of God’s mercy in the end. The saved cleanse themselves from all filthiness of the flesh, and grow in all graces until they have yielded up themselves to have Christ reign in them. George Gifford (1547-1620)
“It infinitely concerns all men to make a sure work about their salvation, for when they die they will be great losers; they will lose not only their comforts on earth, but also the joys of heaven, without any hope of recovery, (Luke 16:23-24).” John Jackson (1600-1648)
“All willful disobedience to our Lord’s revealed will is destructive, if persisted in, and admits of no excuse. To suspend our practice of any duty, until we understand the reason of the precept, is indeed worthy of an everlasting hell.” Timothy Cruso (1656-1697), The Christian Laver
“Every command of a duty necessarily implies all the necessary ways and means by which the duty is to be effected, else the Lord should contradict himself, if he should command a duty and dispense with that without which it cannot be performed.” Oliver Bowles (1574-1664?)
Samuel Willard (1640-1707) says, “A professing covenant people are under greatest obligations to glorify God, which is done by their faithful obedience to his commands.” Discerning the Signs of the Times and the Church’s Reformation
“Shall not the gate of heaven be shut against your soul when you die, except you repent while you live? And yet, will you delay? Christ says, Lk 13:3, “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Do you think that Christ speaks unadvisedly to you?” Thomas Doolittle
“No man is master of events, or absolute determiner of his own endeavors. The sovereign counsel and the providence of God orders all things in the designs of all men, as seems good in his sight.” Urian Oakes (1631–1681), The Sovereign Efficacy of Divine Providence.
“Do not let your way to your prayer closet be untrod. He that holds his acquaintance in heaven by being often with God, will be the most likely to prevail with God in the most pressing and difficult cases.” Richard Alleine (1611-1681), Directions for Grace.
“Nothing is more hateful to God than a secure frame in perilous days.” John Owen
True faith brings “remarkable affects”: “True humility. Genuine repentance. Son-like fear. Universal and absolute submission to God’s will. Patience in all afflictions. Proficiency in godliness. Settled peace of mind. Unspeakable joy in the Spirit.” Daniel Featley, 1626.
“If we do not presently kill sin, it may suddenly suck out the blood of our soul.” Stephen Charnock, Works, Volume 5, 215.
In Christ, as a believer, “While a man’s spirit is strong and patient, it will bear its infirmities; but when it is impatient, it will bear nothing.” John Preston (1587-1628)
A soldier in Christ’s army “…will not be a slave to the devil, or any lust of his own or other men’s. He thinks himself too good for sin.” Jeremiah Burroughs
“A man cannot be a good Christian with out doing God’s will.” Thomas Manton
He that is the only Son in heaven, is by this means the only man on earth to be admired. Nicholas Byfield, (Christian Truths)
“Let us be warned that while we live to keep out of the company of such as fall away from the truth, as the devil did. All apostates are like the devil; they will not be quiet until they make others fall away with them.” Nicholas Byfield, Christian Truths Necessary for Salvation
“While men think they serve the Lord, they serve the devil if the worship they offer to God is not grounded upon his word.” Arthur Hildersham (1563-1631), Christ’s Directives on the Nature of True Worship
There is no biblical reformation without [the] pursuit of holiness, for such is the pursuit of the Scriptures and the will of God for life and godliness. C. Matthew McMahon
“[For reformation of the church], you must have [worship] pure, according to God’s prescription without human addition or alteration. The more there is of man the less there is of God in them.” Sydrach Simpson (1600-1655), from Preserving a Biblical Reformation, .
“True religion where it is received, will command the heart and the whole man. Let a man profess what he will, if his heart and life is not reformed, he is a hypocrite; and whatever worship he does to God is but a false worship.” Arthur Hildersham (1563-1631).
“The profession and preaching of the true doctrine in all fundamental points is the only proper and certain note of the true church.” Arthur Hildersham (1563-1631)
“Desires blown by meditation are the sparks that set prayer in a light flame.” Samuel Lee (1625–1691), The Nature and Method of Secret Prayer
Anonymous, “An ignorant Christian is the devil’s shop, in which he forges all manner of wickedness.”
Chrysostom says, “Ignorance is a deep hell.”
“Meditation of holy and heavenly things is a work that God requires at the hands of all people. That God that requires you to pray, requires you to meditate as well as pray. Yet, there are few Christians who believe this doctrine,” Edmund Calamy, The Art of Divine Meditation
“The truth is, (which I pray you to notice,) it is not properly our unworthiness, but our pride and haughtiness that hinder us from coming to Christ; for we would have something from ourselves, and not all from him.” Thomas Hooker, The Poor Doubting Christian Drawn to Christ
Why is 99.9% of the content of what preachers preach today quite terrible and useless to the hearer? Edmund Calamy hits the nail on the head, “You shall seldom hear a general sermon do any good. It is the particular application that works on people’s hearts.” The Art of Divine Meditation
“It is true, a great understanding, and an acute mind, will make a learned man; but it is the holy life that makes a good man.” Edmund Calamy, The Art of Divine Meditation “This duty of daily divine meditation is the life and soul of all Christianity. You are carcasses of Christians if you are not acquainted with it. It is as impossible to live without a soul, as it is to be a good Christian without divine meditation.” Edmund Calamy, The Art of Divine Meditation
“Divine, godly meditation is the life of all religion, and that which puts life into all other duties.” Edmund Calamy, The Art of Divine Meditation
“Slight thoughts of God will make but a slight impression on the affections; and he that thinks slightly of God, will serve him slightly, and love him slightly. He that thinks slightly of sin, will slight sin; he that thinks slightly of God, God will slight him.” Edmund Calamy, The Art of Divine Meditation
“(Psalm 28:5) There cannot be a more cursed frame of spirit, than to be given over to a mind that does not meditate on the word, and is an “inconsiderate” frame of spirit; an inconsiderate Christian is an inconsiderable Christian.” Edmund Calamy, The Art of Divine Meditation
“In an example of spontaneous godly meditation, I have read of Ignatius the Martyr, that when he heard the clock strike, he would have this meditation, “Now there is one hour more that I must answer for.”“ Edmund Calamy, The Art of Divine Meditation
A man may go to hell for plotting wicked things, as well as for practicing wicked things. Prov. 12:2, “A man of wicked devices” will God condemn. Edmund Calamy, The Art of Divine Meditation
The saint’s peace is a peace with God, but not with sin; the sinner’s peace is a peace with sin, but not with God. Matthew Mead, Almost a Christian
Gifts may make a man a scholar, but grace makes a man a believer. Matthew Mead, Almost a Christian
Secret prayer is “the invisible flight of the soul into the bosom of God.” Samuel Lee, The Nature and Method of Secret Prayer
Want to find out in any established church where the Christians are? Go to a prayer meeting. And if there is no prayer meeting, it’s not a Christian church, for “My house WILL BE called a house of prayer.” Here Christ sees prayer being taken for the whole worship of God. -McMahon
2 Tim. 3:3 – truce-breaking is a perilous and evil sin of the times. Those who do not want to join a church are called truce-breakers, and those that establish churches with no membership are called false teachers. C. Matthew McMahon, 5 Marks of Biblical Commitment to Christ’s Church
“Christians should be walking Bibles.” Thomas Watson
“Sincere love and holy fear go hand in hand; fear springs from love lest God’s favor should be lost by sin.” Thomas Watson
Beloved, if you would ever reign with Christ when you die, he must reign in you while you live. And if you would ever sleep a happy sleep, you must live in Jesus that you may sleep in Jesus. From Edmund Calamy’s sermon “The Saint’s Rest” in The Christian’s Duty and Safety by Love”
Heaven is a goal, and unless you run you shall never obtain it. Heaven is a crown of life, but unless you are faithful to death, you shall never wear it. Christopher Love, The Christian’s Duty and Safety in Evil Times,
Truth always advances godliness, but erroneous doctrine is contrary to it. Christopher Love, The Christian’s Duty and Safety in Evil Times,
The Christian never shines in grace til he comes into the fire of afflictions; especially if he suffers in bearing witness to the truth of Christ. We should be content, yes even rejoice, in our sufferings and not desire death to be rid of the troubles of this life. Christopher Love
“I pray not for the world,” (Jn 17:9). Against universal redemption. If Christ would not spend his breath to pray for them, then surely he would not spend his precious blood to purchase heaven for them. Christopher Love, The Christian’s Duty and Safety in Evil times-.
The end of hearing the word preached for the hearer, is not chiefly to know and understand, but rather to believe, practice, and obey that which is taught (Matt. 7:21; Luke 11:28, 12:47; John 13:7; Rom. 2:13; James 2:1ff). Stephen Egerton (1555-1621)
Why should people not fall asleep when the sermon is being preached? Answer. For diverse reasons. First, it is a breach of the third commandment, or taking God’s name in vain by neglect, and the abuse of God’s holy ordinance. Stephen Egerton (1555-1621)
Men are elated when they speak with an earthly king, and are bid to his table to eat. Are we elated, when we go before the King of heaven and earth to speak to him by prayer and to hear him by preaching and by the sacraments to feast and feed with him? Stephen Egerton (1555-1621)
“Why do people often hate the preaching of ministers and the ministry of the Word? Answer. Commonly from the matter which he delivers, by which the errors of their judgment, and corruptions of their hearts and lives, are laid open, and reproved. Stephen Egerton (1555–1621)
In regards to using the means of grace effectively, Thomas Hooker said, “let the Lord do what he will, and let us do what we should.” “The Poor Doubting Christian Drawn to Christ”
Presumption is a sin seen in the church. “I cannot walk freely, I cannot repeat a sermon, I do not have those graces that saints have; yet I hope to be saved as well as they.” This has slain so many 1000s of souls now roaring in hell; they may thank presumption for it.” T. Hooker
God has no glory from that zeal that has no scriptural warrant. Matthew Mead
Many would depend on Christ’s sacrifice, yet will not submit to his scepter; they would have Christ to pacify their consciences, and the world to please their affections. They would have Christ to die for them, but not to live in them. William Bates (1625-1699)
Considering a sensorious spirit, James 4:11, you do not act as a fellow servant to him that you judge, or as one that is under the same law with him, but as the giver of the law, and the judge whose province it is to pass sentence under it. Jonathan Edwards, Charity and Its Fruits.
Truth came out of God’s heart, and is the manifestation of his life and glory, and it will turn the heart suitable to that life. Cuthbert Sydenham (1622–1654) The Greatness of the Mystery of Godliness,
O! do not let your hearts be low when God is high in love and glory. Cuthbert Sydenham (1622–1654) The Greatness of the Mystery of Godliness,
Error never makes one holy, though it may be in a holy person, and shadowed with the holiness in whom it is. Cuthbert Sydenham (1622–1654) The Greatness of the Mystery of Godliness,
A Christian, so soon as he is newborn, is born a soldier, and so continues until his crown is put on him. Richard Sibbes
“No man was ever kept out of heaven for his confessed badness, but many are for their supposed goodness,” Richard Capel (1586–1656), The Nature, Danger and Cure of Temptation.
How do we know if we have resisted temptation truly? A man has sufficiently resisted sin and Satan when he does not allow the sin, and when he in no way consents to the temptation. Richard Capel (1586–1656)
The happiness which the Lord Jesus procured for believers, includes a perfect freedom from sin, and all afflictive evils, their just consequence, and the fruition of righteousness, peace and joy, in which the kingdom of God consists. William Bridge (1600-1670)
Even though divine mysteries exist, this is not a sufficient plea to be ignorant of God’s ways and will. William Bridge (1600-1670)
Mercy is the special commendation of divine love. William Bridge (1600-1670)
Pertaining to wicked men, if it were not for the watching providence of God over us, and the restraining power of God with us, and the law of nature in us, men would fling out into all kind of wickedness. Richard Capel (1586–1656)
God’s church is never given the warrant to form new doctrine, but to discover, preserve and propagate the Word. To do otherwise is to reject God’s means of grace; and He is never in religious exercises he has not scripturally prescribed. McMahon, 5 Marks of a Church,
How do you live before the omnipotent gaze of the divine Son of Man knowing he has your entire life recorded in the book of his judgment? Is your life also recorded in the Lamb’s Book of Life? Or are you merely hoping it is? – McMahon, Seeing Christ Clearly….
“Sin is always acting, always conceiving, always seducing and always tempting.” John Owen
“In divine worship the soul ascends to God by holy thoughts and ardent desires, and God descends into the soul by the communication of grace and comfort.” William Bates, Spiritual Perfection, p 373.
Thomas Manton said, “To one who has a spiritual taste of the word of God they find it sweeter than all pleasures and delights whatsoever.”
There is a great difference between legalism and obedience. The former is often used as negative slang to dismiss the latter. C. Matthew McMahon
Simeon Ashe, Westminster Divine, said, “The house of the godly is a little church; just as the house of the wicked is a little hell.”
Concerning holiness and growth in Christ in a simple thought to discern between justification and sanctification, “Justification gets you into Christ’s kingdom, and sanctification makes you more like the King himself.” C. Matthew McMahon, Sermon on Spiritual Growth
Idolatry and superstition are the grey hairs of a dying condition. Jeremiah Burroughs
True worship is supernatural. It is cross to a corrupt nature. Men’s inventions in worship are suited to their nature. Unconverted men see no beauty in God’s worship. They will do no more in it than what they may keep up to the credit their false profession. James Allen, (1687).
Desires are better than actions a great deal; for a man may do a good action, that he does not love, and he may abstain from an ill action, that he does not hate. Richard Sibbes, The Christian’s Desire to See God Face to Face,
The first work of grace is to set the soul in order, to subdue base affections, to sanctify the judgment; and when it has set the soul in tune and order, then it is fitted to set a right price on things, to rank and order them as it should. Richard Sibbes, Seeing God Face to Face
It is not knowledge that will bring to heaven, for the devil has that, but it is knowledge sanctified, seizing upon the affections. Richard Sibbes, The Christian’s Desire After God’s Presence,
It is the presence of God that makes all things sweet and comfortable. Richard Sibbes, A Christian’s Desire After God’s Presence.
No one shall ever come to heaven that does not desire the things that tend to heaven above all earthly things. Richard Sibbes, The Soul Breathing After God, .
Sinners who provoke God in holy ordinances of worship provoke God more than sinners who sin in other things. The fire of God’s wrath is so excited by none others as when it is kindled by the polluters of holy things. Jonathan Edwards, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
Nowhere has God, by any indulgence, given away his liberty to any other authority in the world, to have the dominion of the consciences of men, or to give rules of worship. He has strongly prohibited it and severely threatened any that shall presume to do it. Samuel Willard
Men’s institutions cannot be admitted and practiced in the worship of God, without incurring the guilt of a very great sin. Samuel Willard, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
Many are convinced worshipping God in spirit is the likeliest to please him; but they will be at pains to bring themselves to it rightly; they will let it alone, and worship him that way that is less difficult, never considering whether it pleases him or not. John Wilson
John Chrysostom said, in reading and understanding Scripture, “It is evident, that virtue is according to our nature; that we all, of ourselves, know our duties; and that it is not possible for us ever to find refuge in ignorance.”
“The Word of God does not only permit but also commands us to love and embrace Christ with the sweetest, dearest affections that nature can possibly stir up in our minds, heart and soul.” William Pinke,
When they that attend God’s ordinances allow themselves to violate the plain and known commands of God, they are guilty of a horrid profanation of God’s worship. Jonathan Edwards, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God, .
It is the duty of the people of God to worship him in fear. We are to attend on divine institutions with that seriousness and solemnity in the manner that God requires, with reverence, godly fear and suitable apprehensions of his divine excellence and perfection. Nathan Stone
It is the duty of the people of God, resolvedly, in the multitude of his mercy, to come into his house and worship him. When they do this, it is to be done in the fear of God. Nathan Stone, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God,
Corruption is accustomed to creep on the church by degrees, and reformation is not effected at once. Solomon Stoddard, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
If men walk no better after worship than they did before, is an ill sign of their being insincere, false and deceitful in it. Joshua Moodey, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
It is lying worship if not warranted by God’s word. God will say of it, “bring no more vain oblations.” Nor will God take it…unless it agrees with the pattern in the mount, and be prescribed by the Lord of the house. Joshua Moodey, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
Right conceptions of God will notably influence you into right worship, and its due performance. Study well the right way in which God will be worshipped. His own way is the only right way. Joshua Moodey, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
Hypocrites have the sorest punishment allotted to them. Every piece of deceitful worship will be an article in the indictment. Joshua Moodey, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
If the Sabbath is not remembered and prepared for, and sanctified as a holy rest with and to God, we mock God, and deceive ourselves. Joshua Moodey, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
They that make solemn vows in the days of their distress, but forget to pay them in the days of their enlargement, are but liars and deceivers. Joshua Moodey, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
HOW TRUE: We can constantly observe that there has been the least of the power of godliness, where there has been the greatest attachment to human inventions, to external pomp and ceremony in the worship of God. Jonathan Dickinson, Vain Imaginations in Worship
It is enough to render all our worship vain, if it can be said of it as of Jeroboam’s feast, that it was devised out of our own hearts. Jonathan Dickinson, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God,
God knows best what worship will be most acceptable to him and most serviceable to us. Jonathan Dickinson, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God,
It is the scope and purpose of the first commandment that we worship the only true God, so it is the great design of the second, that we worship him in a right and acceptable manner. Jonathan Dickinson, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God,
Those who add to or change God’s worship, do but trifle in matters of eternity. And by reason of this they come to sustain an eternal loss. Samuel Willard, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God,
To do anything in vain is folly, but to worship God in vain, is gross iniquity. Samuel Willard, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God,
People spoil their whole worship by adding to God’s prescribed worship; it makes all the rest to be too little or of no purpose; it is a dead fly in the ointment. Samuel Willard, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
God has not left worship to the determination of any man; but has himself provided and particularly directed, how he will be worshipped. And so, it is that all the commandments of men in this case are but vain worship. Jonathan Dickinson, Vain Imaginations in the Worship of God
We must worship and adore Christ in such way as he had appointed, and not according to the inventions of Caesar. It is God only that has authority to say “My son, give me thy heart.” Matthew Henry, Commentary on Luke 20
In divine worship, giving God’s glory to another will awaken God’s fury to assert his right, vindicate his righteousness, and destroy those that forsake him to set up something else in his place. Jonathan Edwards, Unpublished MSS,
Idolaters in God’s worship are temporizing formalists that prefer a little worldly trash set down before the glory of God, and a good conscience. John Wilson (1588–1667), The Simplicity of Holy Worship,
When we find ourselves averse to worship God in that plain, simple manner he has required, and carried forth with a desire of human ceremonies and inventions, let us suspect Satan is dealing with us. John Wilson (1588–1667), The Simplicity of Holy Worship,
Satan draws men to atheism; but if he cannot bring them to it, he draws them to idolatry and superstition in worship. If he can, he will keep them from worshipping God at all; but if he cannot, he labors to keep them from worshipping him after the right manner. John Wilson
Carnal men have carnal minds, and are for carnal things, and have in them an enmity to God, Christ, and all spiritual services. John Wilson (1588–1667), The Simplicity of Holy Worship,
As God would have us to stand in a close union to him in worship, and with one another, so he would have us to stand at the utmost distance from idolaters. John Wilson (1588–1667), The Simplicity of Holy Worship,
It is superstition in worship to do that which God has not appointed, and such a dangerous thing to be guilty of it. Such ceremonies or inventions in his worship are not appointed, but have been devised by men. John Wilson (1588–1667), The Simplicity of Holy Worship,
Ceremonial worship and that of human invention (Prov. 20:10) are both abominations to the Lord. The former, once lawful, is now unlawful; the latter never were lawful, nor ever will be lawful. We should desire to keep ourselves pure and utterly renounce and disclaim them. John Wilson (1588-1667), The Simplicity of Holy Worship
We should not remain among the graves of ceremonial worship; let us not own them, or have anything to do with them. If their ceremonies are dead, let us beware of even touching them, lest we become unclean. John Wilson (1588–1667), The Simplicity of Holy Worship
When we read or hear his word, receive the sacrament, or celebrate any other ordinance, let us do it with the heart. One grain of heart-service, is of more account with him than mountains of all other services whatsoever. John Wilson (1588–1667), The Simplicity of Holy Worship
Whoever carries the name of a Christian, should desire setting up Christ’s Kingdom and Government. How can they deal unworthily with him? Either he is our Lord, or not; if not, why do we profess he is? If he is, why do we not obey him in his worship? John Wilson (1588–1667)
New figures, or any shadows introduced into the worship of the church is wicked audaciousness, as we affirm it is prohibited of the Word of God (who expressly condemns all will worship, and in times past prohibited the bringing of strange fire to his altar). Theodore Beza
Ceremonious worship in the days of the Gospel is utterly unlawful and unwarrantable, contrary to the will of God, the design of Christ, and the nature of the dispensation he has put his church under. John Wilson, The Holy Simplicity of Worship
The church being spiritual, is not visible to the eye, but credible (if I may so speak) to the mind. John Wilson, The Holy Simplicity of Worship
It is not for us to set down ways of worship ourselves, but to observe the way that he in his word has set down for us. John Wilson. (If this is true, why are there so many churches who do worship so differently? And thus, who is right in their worship?)
Why do you change God’s worship to suit your taste? “God does not need the advice or help of any of his creatures, whether angels or men, to assist him in the management of his affairs.” John Wilson, The Simplicity of Worship
God’s power is unlimited, his wisdom infinite, his authority is supreme, his freedom absolute, and he may both do what he will himself, and appoint what he will have us to do. It is not for such worms as we are, either to resist, or censure him in worship. John Wilson (1588–1667)
Religious worship is devout behavior towards God, whereby we acknowledge his Sovereignty over us, and the dueness of our obedience to him, appearing before him, and waiting upon him, in the way he has appointed in his Word. John Wilson, Spirituality and Simplicity of NT Worship
Men’s institutions cannot be admitted and practiced in the worship of God, without incurring the guilt of a very great sin. Samuel Willard, The Sinfulness of Worshipping God with Men’s Institutions
God’s general rule for worship is in Lev. 10:3, “I will be sanctified in them that draw near to me, and before all the people I will be glorified.” Whatever we do in worship, we must do it that he may be sanctified, or, whatever we do otherwise, is an abomination to him. John Owen, The Glory of Christian Worship
When men do not have Evangelical Faith in the worship which God divinely institutes, it is useless and burdensome to them. They must “have something” in it which may entertain their minds and engage their affections.” John Owen, The Glory of Christian Worship
The Spirit enables God’s people to discover his mind and will concerning his worship, that they may embrace what he has appointed, and refuse anything of which he will say at the last day, “Who has required this at your hand?” John Owen, The Glory of Christian Worship
Why do churches change God’s worship? John Owen gives the answer, “The world despises the true worship of the saints. This presses the church to invent what they suppose is a more glorious and beautiful worship, though God abhors such inventions.” The Glory of Christian Worship
It is an eminent effect of our fruit of our reconciliation to God and among ourselves, by the blood of Christ, that believers enjoy the privileges of the excellent, glorious, spiritual worship of God in Christ, revealed and required in the Gospel. John Owen, The Glory of Christian Worship
“What is not of faith is sin,” (Romans 14:23). How can we perform worship to God in faith, when we offer him that which he has not commanded? May he not justly say, as once he did, “Who hath required this at your hands?” (Isa. 1:12). Edward Hutchins, Scripture Proof for Singing Hymns and Spiritual Songs
When we are called to sing to God, we are not bid to “make,” but to “take” a psalm, Psalm 81:1-2, “Sing aloud to God our strength, take a psalm.” Edward Hutchins, Scripture Proof for Singing Hymns and Spiritual Songs
It is not our frames, but God’s command to be the rule of our obedience. Edward Hutchins, Scripture Proof for Singing Hymns and Spiritual Songs
God requires equal obedience of all his laws. John Knox, True Worship and the Consequence of Idolatry
When we have a fear of God, it will make our worship serious; when we have a joy in God, it will make our worship durable. Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ
Lukewarm and indifferent services to God in worship stink in the nostrils of God. Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ
To give God only an external form of worship without its life, is a taking his name in vain. We mock him when we do not mind what we are speaking to him, or what he is speaking to us in worship. Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ
Self-denial is the heart of all gospel grace. True evangelical, spiritual worship cannot be without this ingredient of the main evangelical principle. Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ
To neglect true worship is a high degree of atheism. Stephen Charnock (Think about how many professing reformed churches participate in practical atheism when they think they are participating in worship!)
If spiritual worship is required by God, how sad is it for all those that are so far from giving God a true spiritual worship, that they render him no worship at all! Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ
What is unsuitable to God in worship, cannot be acceptable. Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ
Worship is nothing else but a rendering to God the honor that is due to him. Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ
The pillars upon which the worship of God stands cannot be discerned without divine revelation. Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ
Consider the importance of this statement on present day worship: “The prophecies in Scripture that foretell the state of the church in the New Testament speak of psalm singing to be used as a part of God’s worship.” Jonathan Clapham, A Short and Full Vindication of that Sweet and Comfortable Ordinance of Singing Psalms
Singing the psalms was never repealed under the Gospel, nor were they “a type” as the ceremonies were, to cease. Singing psalms are forever among moral and perpetual duties. Jonathan Clapham, A Short and Full Vindication of that Sweet and Comfortable Ordinance of Singing Psalms
Singing psalms gets our hearts affected to love, fear and honor God through considering his works of creation, providence and redemption. Our hearts should be taken up with the meditation of these works until holy affections are inflamed towards him. Jonathan Clapham, A Short and Full Vindication of that Sweet and Comfortable Ordinance of Singing Psalms
“There is nothing accidental in the worship of God; every thing that belongs to it is part of it, Matt. 23:23.” John Owen. That means if you don’t do what God prescribes in worship, you don’t really worship. “Part” of worship is not worship as God prescribes.
(This is extremely important in light of worship). “God being a Spirit declares what he is; his other perfections declare what “kind” of Spirit he is.” Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ.
Stephen Charnock: “Worship depends on the scriptural directions God should prescribe as the sovereign Lawgiver.” Thus…contemporary worship services are an open violation of God’s “prescribed” worship. They introduce elements not prescribed or done for 2000 years.
Charnock: “The right exercise of worship is grounded upon the spirituality of God.” That means nothing materially done in worship means anything unless it has a dimension of “spirit.” This means all worship must be done in spirit and truth, without which it is not worship.
Tradition has drawn men from the revealed will of God. Men are more willing to imitate the outward actions of their famous ancestors, than conform themselves to the revealed will of their Creator in worship. Stephen Charnock, A Christian’s True Spiritual Worship to Jesus Christ
True worship must have truth for substance, and spirit for manner; else, it is not worship as the Father is pleased with. Such worship must be conformed to the rule and pattern of God’s will and pleasure, revealed in the word. Hugh Binning, Works, Spiritual Worship of God (129)
It is incumbent on man to love God and Christ with his life, with his senses, and with his reason. Thomas Tuke (d. 1657) Love to God
It is not enough to receive the truth that we might be saved, but we must receive the love of the truth if ever we would be saved. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
Calvin: “I know how difficult it is to persuade the world that God disapproves of all modes of worship not expressly sanctioned by his word.” But this never allows the church to continue in its excuses to add in the inventions of men. CMM
In Ezekiel 8 there are idolatries committed (1–6), superstitions to which the Jews were devoted which were Egyptian, (7–12), Phoenician, (13-14), Persian (15-16), and the heinousness of their sin (17-18). (Matthew Henry) Could we say, contemporary and charismatic worship today?
False worship (Ezekiel 8:12) will drive God from your church (Ezekiel 10:1-22). C. Matthew McMahon
Every covenant community will fall under the fearsome judgment of God if they engage in abominable worship. Such detestable practices are given by Ezekiel 8:1–18, where he describes the desecration of God’s worship. God’s worship is overthrown by vain imaginations (Matt. 15:9). C. Matthew McMahon
In Ezekiel 8:12 we find practical atheism. In the chambers of the temple courts the prophet in his vision beheld seventy elders engaged in idolatrous worship. They “forgot” that God alone determines the manner in which sinners approach him. What about your church? C. Matthew McMahon
The worshippers met together…every man had the chamber of his imagery besides, a room in his own house for this purpose, in which every man gratified his own fancy with such pictures as he liked best. Matthew Henry on Ezekiel 8:12
What people do when they think no one else can see them reveals their true character. See Ezekiel 8:12.
The “chambers of imagery”, are rooms painted with images, (Ezekiel 8:12), which is is an expression denoting the vision the prophet had of the abominations practiced by the Jews in Jerusalem. Vain imaginations in secret places give way to spiritual adultery in worship. C. Matthew McMahon
God’s eye discovers the closest idolatry in the world, even if it is in secret actions. John Flavel on Ezekiel 8:12
Men will soothe themselves in thoughts unbecoming his omniscience, that they may enjoy their secret wickedness. Thomas Boston on Ezekiel 8:12
“Men secretly imagine, that God knows not, or soon forgets, and then make bold to sin against him.” Stephen Charnock on Ezekiel 8:12
“Sin loves corners and secrets.” William Greenhill on Ezekiel 8:12
Disobedience to God’s voice is not only when man does wickedly contrary to the precepts of God, but also when of good intent man does anything to the honor or service of God not commanded by the express word of God. John Knox, True and False Religion
All worshipping, honoring, or service invented by the brain of man in the religion of God, without his own express commandment, is idolatry. John Knox, True and False Religion
The Lord is more glorified by public worship than private. God is then glorified by us when we acknowledge that he is glorious. And he is most glorified when this acknowledgment is most public. This is obvious. David Clarkson (1622-1686)
God judged the wicked with the catastrophic flood to start life over with a worshipping community in Gen. 6-8. God destroyed millions of wicked people to have eight worshippers praise Him unhindered. God requires his name be sanctified. He requires no less today. C. Matthew McMahon
How does godly meditation fit into your personal devotions? Do you meditate on the scriptures daily? Richard Allestree (1619-1681) teaches this most neglected spiritual discipline to better help Christians glorify God in personal devotions.
Where no proof of Christ’s power in the ministry is found or felt by the hearers, either the teacher must be a reprobate teacher, or the hearers reprobate hearers. John Forbes, God’s Will in Man’s Salvation and Other Works,
A minister’s conforming to Christ’s fleshly weakness and spiritual power is against the sacrilegious usurpation of powers and swords by the Pope as Christ’s vicar, and against the corruption which flows from his practice, which has too great a place in Reformed Churches. John Forbes, God’s Will in Man’s Salvation
Out of Rev. 5:9 we have a most strong argument to prove that salvation is universal in regard of nations, kindreds, tongues, or kinds of men, but no way universal in respect of every particular person. John Forbes, God’s Will in Man’s Salvation
The very nature of God’s holiness consists in this: it is willing himself as the last end to work all things as suitable to his own infinite excellency. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
“If you are not ready to pray, you are not ready to live.” Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
This day if you should hear a voice out of the clouds from heaven speaking to you, would you not listen? The truth is, we should listen as much to the voice of God in the ministry of his word by the preacher, as if the Lord should speak out of the clouds to us. Jeremiah Burroughs
Those that have not made a conscience effort of sanctifying God’s Name in holy duties never in all their lives did any service for the honor of God. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
The shine and luster of all the attributes of God together is God’s glory. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
The Lord is a pure act, and nothing else but act, and he expects that all his people should have quick, active, and lively spirits in coming before him in worship to sanctify his name. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
After you have come out from your closets from prayer, one should perceive the fear of God on you. So, in this you are walking all day long in the fear of God as it becomes those that have been solemnly setting themselves to worship Him. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
The fear of God must be an abiding fear. It should not only be at that instant when you are worshiping God, or speaking of any of God’s titles and names, but must abide on your hearts after the duty is over. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
The worship of God must be a great thing because the Lord is a great God, and it must be suitable to his greatness. Psalm 48:1, “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised.” Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
If you neglect a holy duty in the morning on any business, are you more fit to perform this duty at night because of it? You will not find this to be the case. Forbearing a holy duty now will not make the soul more fit for a duty afterwards. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
Divine meditation is a help to cause Christians to love God more. God is like a picture with a curtain drawn over it. The Christian cannot see the beauty of God until meditation draws the curtain aside and lets in all the beauty that is in God. Edmund Calamy, The Art of Divine Meditation
Dr. John Preston, when he was to die, he said this, “I shall but change my place, I shall not change my company.” Quoted by Jeremiah Burroughs in Gospel Worship.
When we come to worship God, we come to tender up that homage and service to him that is due from us as creatures to the infinite Creator. This is the very end of worship. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship.
There is no fear of knowing too much of the Bible, but there is a great amount of fear that goes into practicing too little. Thomas Brooks, Works, Volume1:290-291.
Christians must realize that a distracted or wandering mind in private devotions is considered evil by God. When we commune with him, we are to have high thoughts of God, not wandering thoughts. C. Matthew McMahon
God is terrible towards those that shall dare approach him, and yet are wicked and ungodly in their approaching…God would have us all to tremble at his presence. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship
In the worship of God there must be nothing but what God commands. Jeremiah Burroughs, Gospel Worship.
You have need of God’s strength to perform holy duties, of his mercy to pardon them, and of his Christ to accept them. John Jackson, Serving God in Private and Public Worship….
It is your Christian duty to pour out your spirit before the Lord in giving him thanks for every mercy, in confessing every sin with godly sorrow, and in asking everything you need in Christ’s name. John Jackson, Serving God in Private and Public Worship
Satan desires to steal the word out of the Christian’s mind so that they can never make use of it. C. Matthew McMahon
In reading and study during personal devotions, Christians must bring a mind desirous and resolved to let the Word of God BOTH inform them and reform them. C. Matthew McMahon
Having set up God in your heart, and knowing and doing your duty as a private Christian, endeavor to set up God in your house, (Genesis 18:19; Joshua 24:15; Acts 10:2) John Jackson, How to Serve God in Private and Public Worship
It is a greater sin to wholly omit or to lay aside duties than it is to fail in them through a lack of preparedness or the like (Exodus 4:24-25; Job 15:14). John Jackson, How to Serve God in Private and Public Worship
As you return from the public ordinances of the preached Word, either be pondering the Word with yourself, or speaking about it with others, that you may understandingly remember it, and make a holy improvement of it. John Jackson, How to Serve God in Private and Public Worship
Christians are to prepare for the Lord’s Day beforehand, for no worldly business is to be done on the Christian Sabbath that may be done on the day before, or left undone until the day after, so that you may not be interrupted in your sanctification of the day. John Jackson, How to Serve God in Private and Public Worship
It is not the presence of the wicked at the Lord’s Table that defiles you, but your not doing your duty to them, that is, your not endeavoring by all means to have them cast out, that defiles you. John Jackson, How to Serve God in Private and Public Worship
Let me tell you that you will be inexcusable to God if you do not worship him by prayer at least twice every day, as morning and evening, because you have nothing ordinarily to hinder you from it. John Jackson, How to Serve God in Private and Public Worship
The Spirit does not help Christians in their private duties of worship by miracle, but by means. John Jackson, Directions for Private Worship
The Bible and all the good books in the land, and all the men, means, and ministry of grace, cannot make a negligent, slothful, careless, worldly, willful, obstinate, prejudiced soul wise to salvation. John Jackson, A Taste of True Worship
There is a vast difference between the two eternities that immediately follow after death. The believer’s eternity is one perpetual day of joy that shall never see night. The unbelievers’ eternity is one everlasting night of torments without day. John Jackson, Westminster Divine
Those who alter God’s stated worship, (creating a more palatable worship), in such men’s hearts is nothing but a stinking idol of corruption. John Forbes
When a minister goes out of the way and yields to men’s traditions, this brings pollution on God’s worship and ordinances. John Forbes, The Christian’s Charge Never to Offend God in Worship
We should suffer nothing to be added or taken away from the blessed ordinances of the worship of God, for every addition of man is a fleshly spot; it pollutes and defiles the things that are holy. John Forbes, The Christian’s Charge Never to Offend God in Worship
For a pastor to suffer the worship of God to be dispensed profanely, in a profane manner, or in an unlawful form, contrary to the pattern which the Apostle has set down in 1 Tim. 6:13-17, is miserable profaneness. John Forbes, The Christian’s Charge Never to Offend God in Worship
There is a great misery in our time. Preaching is done. The sacraments are kept. The ministry is exercised. But whether these are kept without spot or rebuke, you judge. John Forbes, Offending God in Worship
There is no precept of God which has been more violated than changing God’s worship to suit our taste. We Reformed should look to see how short we come of upholding Christ’s worship, and consider how we shall answer for it in the day of judgment for its abuse. John Forbes, The Christian’s Charge Never to Offend God in Worship
Satan and this wicked world do all they can to make pastors pervert the ways of God and to walk in God’s house otherwise than God has commanded. Corrupting the pastor in false worship will corrupt the flock. John Forbes, The Christian’s Charge Never to Offend God in Worship
The devil labors to corrupt the purity of doctrine, and the service of God in his church, above all things in the world. John Forbes, The Christian’s Charge Never to Offend God in Worship
No command of princes, nor the fear of the loss of our lives, should ever cause us to violate this truth: the worship of God is of divine authority and no man may alter it. John Forbes, The Christian’s Charge Never to Offend God in Worship
A man is never undone until he is in hell. John Dod, Sayings of John Dod
Many can be as hot as fire in their own private matters, who are as cold as ice in things that concern God’s honor and glory. Robert Cleaver, Godly Zeal, annexed to Dod’s work on sin
Those who have been stung with sin can more easily be moved to show compassion towards poor sinners like themselves, because by the feeling of misery, men learn the practice of mercy. Robert Cleaver, Godly Zeal, annexed to John Dod’s work, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
Evil is never practiced with such mischief as when it is contrived by craft and polished with deceit. John Dod, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
Men are often so loathe to be under any Christian government. Far be it for them to be instructed how to live well, and rebuked if they do not do well. But, men, generally, will have none of it. John Dod, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
God’s ways are the best, no matter how we may judge his providence in the times we go through affliction and difficulty. John Dod, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
In considering “simplicity” great care is needful. In relation to God’s essence, “triplicity” implies a multiplication of God’s essence. Christians call God “triune,” not triple, because biblically there are three persons, but only one numerical essence. C. Matthew McMahon
With fervent prayers, there is much humility. With few and weak prayers, there is little humility. With no prayers at all, there is no humility. John Dod, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
Wicked men are like a blind men who do not fear danger. If a blind man was about to fall off a high cliff, he has no fear because he does not see any danger. There is no danger to a blind man; as such, there is no danger to a carnal man of going to hell. John Dod, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
It is a great fault to think that any person has more of an abundance of sin, then God has of mercy to forgive it. John Dod, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
Forgiveness through Christ alone confutes the Papists who burden men’s consciences with unnecessary acts. If they want to be cleansed they must go on a pilgrimage, pray to a saint, make some satisfaction… They are taught to find mercy anywhere other than at God’s hands. John Dod, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
Sanctified afflictions are spiritual promotions. John Dod, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
What reason is there that unregenerate people should esteemed that medicine which will cure them when they do not feel themselves to be sick? John Dod, The Affects of Sin on the Soul
When we let our hearts loose all day, and we feed on earthly vanity, how should they be heavenly-minded all of a sudden when bed-time calls on us to pray? Paul Bayne, The Armor of God
Why do some Christians have such a difficult time using the Sword of the Spirit? One reason is that the devil will steal away the word from us, for he is a good pick pocket. Paul Bayne, The Armor of God
Churches filled with people and ministries are not the sign of favor with God. It may actually be the ground of wicked and vain hope. Outward perceived blessings (like a full attendance and a big ministry) is not the proof that the church is in God’s favor. C. Matthew McMahon
What is hope? It may be described as a certain expectation to attain everything faith believes, grounded only on God’s grace. Paul Bayne, The Armor of God
True faith is a strong dissuasive from ever embracing the popish faith, which is full of all deadly sin. Such a false faith is so far from defending us from all the fiery darts of the devil, that a man may have it, and be an incarnate devil. Paul Bayne, The Armor of God
If I would not trust a man for a few pennies, would I trust him because he had dollars? If I cannot be content to trust God for the material provisions and things of this life, do I truly trust him for life everlasting? Paul Bayne, The Armor of God
Thieves do not break into poor cottages, but houses which are filled with treasure. So, in this spiritual war the saints know Satan will always try to break into those hearts which God has filled with his spiritual treasure. Paul Bayne, The Armor of God
Paul, as a faithful herald, repeats his proclamation that Christians cannot live on this side of heaven easily, and cannot escape their sanctifying walk before Christ peaceably; they must look to warfare. Paul Bayne, The Armor of God
Matt. 16:26, “For what is a man profited, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” This text works no effects on the covetous; for they had rather lose their souls, than forsake their riches. Richard Allestree, The Whole Duty of Divine Meditation
You may as well rob the bright luminary, the sun, of his light, as deprive faith of the gift of love. Love is the external act of the internal life of a Christian. Richard Allestree, The Whole Duty of Divine Meditation
Nothing is more opposite to piety than procrastination. Richard Allestree, The Whole Duty of Divine Meditation
The foundation of a holy life is true repentance; and where that is acquired, remission of sins, and eternal life succeeds. Richard Allestree, The Whole Duty of Divine Meditation,
The Christian who begins a holy duty without God, will end it without him also. Richard Allestree, The Whole Duty of Divine Meditation, from
For the length of divine meditation each day, remember that affections are not quickly raised. We are not to cease early until affections are well kindled. Half an hour may be reckoned to be the least for beginners, and an hour for those that are proficient. Richard Allestree, The Whole Duty of Divine Meditation
This is the reason of the apostasy that there is in the world. People and churches seem to go on in God’s ways, but they go on but lamely because they do not give themselves up wholly to the ways of God. Jeremiah Burroughs,
Those that have the best joy in their hearts are those that walk most in the fear of God. Jeremiah Burroughs, Walking with God
When God at any time darts in a heavenly thought into your minds, he calls you to walk with him there, and would have you follow that thought. Following that heavenly thought is answering God’s call to walk with him. Jeremiah Burroughs, Walking with God.
How happy are people who walk with God that have free converse with Him! What? We that were not only strangers, but enemies to God for a good while, now walk with him? O! It is a blessed thing! Jeremiah Burroughs, Walking with God
Cursed be that man that accounts all the gold and silver in the world worth one days enjoyment of communion with Jesus Christ. Marques Galiatius
It may be sometimes when God’s hand is on a lost man, on hearing some sermon, then their hearts are a little touched, and they seem to be a little forward. But take the constant course of their lives, and it’s in the way of sin. Jeremiah Burroughs, Walking with God
It is the great excellency and commendation of a godly man to walk with God. It is the highest testimony that can be given that a man walks with God. Jeremiah Burroughs, in his treatise, Walking With God.
Whoever desires to be better in his profession of Christ, and to have a share in the invaluable purchases of his passion, must prize Christ far beyond anything he may most lawfully love in this world, far beyond life itself, and any contentments that are dear to him. William Pinke
“The life of a Christian is nothing else but a meditation of death.” William Perkins
Do not think on the comforts you want, but on the mercies you have. Look rather at God’s end in afflicting, than to the measure and degree of your affliction. Christopher Love, Vindication
If you do not have the armor of God, know the devil has surprised you, and holds you as a slave to him. Paul Bayne (1573-1617), The Armor of God
He whose heart has been divinely touched with the love of God, his care is not so much for receiving the talents of gold, as for improving the talents of grace. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
The humble Christian studies his own unworthiness. He looks with one eye upon grace, to keep his heart cheerful, and with the other eye upon sin, to keep it humble. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
O! the privilege of a believer! He is not taken away in his sins; but he is taken away from his sins. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
Kings may be your fathers to nurse you up in peace; but ministers are your fathers to beget you to Christ. The earthly father is an instrument of conveying nature, the spiritual father of conveying grace. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
The burden of sin cannot be light seeing it was pressed out of Christ himself as a bloody sweat. Christopher Love, The Christian’s Combat
If Satan’s darts have wounded us, faith cools the scalding heat of sin by applying to us the precious balm of Christ’s blood. Christopher Love, The Christian’s Combat
Better is sanctified adversity then successful impiety. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
I can rest securely, while I lay my head on Christ’s bleeding side. Augustine
Many people do not forsake their sins, but grow more cunning in concealing them. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
Divisions are Satan’s powder-plot to blow up religion. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
If you would get Christ into your heart, let heaven be in your eye! Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
Sin is a leprous spot. It makes everything we touch unclean. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace,
Every pardon a sinner has is written in Christ’s blood. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
It would be far easier to write a book about apostates in this age, than a book of martyrs! Thomas Watson HOW TRUE TODAY!
Jesus Christ is the pillar and hinge on which the Covenant of Grace turns. Thomas Watson, The Believer’s Privileges in the Covenant of Grace
Paul preached as a RADICAL pastor of the Radical Jesus. Paul was never a minister of mediocrity. C. Matthew McMahon, The Lord’s Voice Cries to the City
The feet of the preacher should be to you, beautiful, because you find God’s supreme reign in your heart as beautiful. C. Matthew McMahon, The Lord’s Voice Cries to the City
The Gospel is about glad tidings and peace, (Rom. 10:15). Yet, peace is only attained through God’s supreme reign in and through Christ. C. Matthew McMahon, The Lord’s Voice Cries to the City
Christ is with us until the world’s end. Let his little flock be bold therefore. William Tyndale
This depravation of our nature is nothing else but the blotting out of God’s image in us. Heinrich Bullinger
As the apostle teaches, Christ is to be heard and affirmed by firm faith before all things. Oecolampadius
The foundation of the Christian faith relies on Christ being heard by faith. Oecolampadius.
I have never once feared the devil, but I tremble every time I enter the pulpit. John Knox
A man with God is always in the majority. John Knox
You are God’s tool. He wills to wear you out by use not by idleness. Oh happy man, whom He calls to His work! Zwingli
Since Christ is our righteousness, our works are good only insofar as they are of Christ. Zwingli
God gives us everything in the name of Christ. Hence we need no other intercessors. Zwingli
A man who is inconsistent in his speech cannot be trusted. Zwingli
The freedom of the will is the worst plague of true religion. Wolfgang Capito
Anyone who is born of God hears his word, and Christ’s sheep hear his word and follow him. Martin Bucer
Peace is not to be purchased by the sacrifice of truth. John Calvin
If God does nothing random, there must always be something to learn. John Calvin
Whatever a person may be like, we must still love them because we love God. John Calvin
Repentance is not merely the start of the Christian life; it is the Christian life. John Calvin
The tongue exists to reveal our heart. John Calvin
All wickedness flies from a disregarding of God. John Calvin
The Human heart is a factory of idols. John Calvin
Wherever the Word of God is purely preached, there a church of God exists, even if it swarms with many faults. Calvin
Prosperity inebriates men, so that they take delights in their own merits. John Calvin
We should ask God to increase our hope when it is small, awaken it when it is sleeping, and raise it up when it is overthrown. John Calvin
“Enoch walked in a straight path to heaven, and turned not aside to crooked ways.” William Jenkyn
Many pass for saints on earth whose souls are in hell. Martin Luther
The Bible is the cradle wherein Christ is laid. Martin Luther
If you see yourself as a “little sinner” you will inevitably see Jesus as a “little savior”. Martin Luther
A simple layman armed with Scripture is greater than the mightiest pope without it. Martin Luther
To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing. Martin Luther
The most damnable heresy that ever plagued the mind of man was that he could make himself good enough to deserve to live with a holy God. Martin Luther
A religion that gives nothing, costs nothing, and suffers nothing, is worth nothing. Martin Luther
Pray like it all depends on God, then when you are done, go work like it all depends on you. Martin Luther
God does not need your good works, but your neighbor does. Martin Luther
Every week I preach justification by faith to my people, because every week they forget it. Martin Luther
Our Lord must be a pious man to be able to love rascals. I cannot do it, and I am a rascal myself. Martin Luther
Whatever your heart clings to and confides in, that is really your god. Martin Luther
The bible is alive, it speaks to me; it has feet, it runs after me; it has hands, it lays hold of me. Martin Luther
It is certain that a man must completely despair of himself in order to become fit for the grace of Christ. Martin Luther
To be full and idle is the greatest plague on earth; it is the trouble from where all other plagues come. Martin Luther
Faith is the wedding ring in which we have pledged ourselves to Christ. Martin Luther
The NT is nothing but a revelation of the OT, as if you had a sealed letter, and later on, opened it. Martin Luther
Ministerial work is to make saints out of sinners, living souls out of the dead, children of God out of servants of the Devil. Martin Luther
Without Christ, no one can comfort himself. Martin Luther
God creates out of nothing. Therefore, until a man is nothing, God can make nothing out of him. Martin Luther
Christians must seek the Word in the preacher’s mouth, not only when the doctrine pleases them, but especially when it sanctifies them. CMM
Ministers have no right to speak of divine things in a bad style. Alexander Vinet, Homiletics,
Nothing can be more unworthy of the seriousness of the pulpit, than to seek innovation for its sake, or independence for its sake. Alexander Vinet
Ministers should make it their business not to set forth new notions, but to press on Christians old truths, and known duties. Thomas Gouge, Walking with God All the Day Long
God’s all-seeing presence is a preservative against sin and a means to make you watchful over all your ways and actions. Thomas Gouge, Walking with God All the Day Long
Distractions abound in the service of the church. They shouldn’t. It only takes one Achan to ruin the camp. C. Matthew McMahon, Sermon Nehemiah 8:1-8
Grace is not in things, it is only in Christ. C. Matthew McMahon, Two Wills of God Made Easy.
Carry all your sins with the solemnity of penitential tears to their eternal funeral in Christ. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
It is hard to destroy sin, but will it not be harder to be damned for it? Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
Do we not all have sins of the greatest magnitude, even though we have mercies of the highest nature? Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
Plead with the Lord to deliver you from sin…do not leave the throne of grace, until grace is given to you to leave off your sins. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
Outward mercies, not conferring inward grace, cannot accomplish such a difficult work of reformation. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
Christians must either cease sinning, or God will cease waiting, and give over favoring you. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
In our folly we see other’s faults, more than to see our own. Learn the art of self-reflection, which is the way to self-reformation. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
God’s kindness and mercy which does not effect an answerable reformation, will abundantly aggravate revengeful destruction. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
When Christians will not reform their ways, God replies, they have not minded my mercies, I will not mind their miseries. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
How unspeakably strange it is that Christians can forget God who does so much to be remembered. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
Sins often renewed, are hardly reformed. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
The most powerful engine to attract man’s will, is the good will and mercy of God; he is easily drawn than driven, persuaded than forced. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
How we are joyful when getting out of danger; but how little careful are we to be getting out of sin? Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
If reformation can only be regarded as a suitable compensation to God’s mercies to us, we are without it. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
Let us offer up ourselves to the Lord as a whole-burnt-offering, in the ascending flames of purest affections. Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
What expectations God has to see a repenting, reforming, holy, obedient frame, on our reception of such wonderful favors from him! Thomas Gouge, The Duty of Reformation in Light of God’s Mercies
Any soul hindered in coming to Christ because it does not have what grace it desires, is a very strong, dangerous, devilish temptation. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Christ has purchased holiness for all those that he has laid down his life for. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Sanctification is the health of the soul; the soul comes to be healed when it comes to be holy; holiness is true rest. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Sanctification is nothing else but glorification begun, and glorification is nothing else but the perfecting of sanctification. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Christians do not work duties to God to satisfy anything past, but as testimonies of love and thankfulness for what they have received. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
When saints hear threats of the Law out of God’s word against sin, consider what his mercy is in delivering you from what is deserved. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
The Lord sees every spark of grace in Christians so even their desires and endeavors after God’s will shall be accepted as the deed. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
All believers do not account the Law as a burden but bless God for the Law, account it their inheritance, and their soul’s joy. C. Matthew McMahon
The moral Law is indeed the very glass of God’s holiness. In the moral Law we may see the luster and glory of the holiness of God himself. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
There is an insufficiency in all things in the world to give rest until we come to Christ. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
There is the venom of the wrath of God in every affliction to every unconverted man while is in this world. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
When the minister preaches God’s word it should be as real to you as if God spoke it from heaven. C. Matthew McMahon Sermon on Micah 6:9
The eternal nature of God’s settled decree forever establishes the fidelity of God’s promises to his people. C. Matthew McMahon – Sermon on Psalm 119:90
Let the world have much rest and peace, with no war abroad in the world, yet there is no peace to wicked men, no rest to their souls. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Christ says, “Whatever your fears and troubles are, yet come, and cast all your burdens on me, I am content to bear them all.” Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
In believers, the power of Jesus Christ can uphold little sparks of grace in the midst of an ocean of corruption. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Christians scandalize their holy profession by allowing their inward corruption to bear fruit, which is a great burden. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
An argument that you have grace: because of the great burden of corruption that you carry about in your soul, you would be willing to die. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
The burden of sin is so great to the godly, it makes them weary of their lives, for their corruption is a more grievous then death would be. Christian, so long as you have any sin in you, you are a burden to God and to the Spirit of God. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Sin is that which makes all other things burdensome that are burdensome. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
It is easier for a man to bear a burden on his shoulders, then to bear a burden on his conscience. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
There is no such intensiveness in any labor in the world as a Christian has against his corruptions. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Though a man miscarries in the world, it is not so great an evil as if a Christian is to miscarry in any ONE duty that he performs. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Christians cannot be idle. They have to provide for eternity. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Many cry out of poverty, disgrace & trouble in your families. Who cries out, who shall deliver me from this body of death, from this sin? Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Are you the kind of Christian that hears the words of the Bible on the page but never heard the voice of the Lord in your heart? C. Matthew McMahon
The Law accepts no repentance. Let the sinner be sorrowful and lament with tears of blood, still, the Law would not accept this. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
To most people in the world, sin is very light. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest,
Those that labor, and are heavy laden, are called to Christ. Such as Christ calls are only such as labor and are heavy laden. Jeremiah Burroughs, Christ Inviting Sinners to Come to Him for Rest
Watch for the new work by Jeremiah Burroughs coming out next month. It is a must have Burroughs book salvation and coming to Christ.
What pious heart does not bleed to hear and see in these degenerate times, the despising and trampling of things God highly prizes? Thomas Hodges, A Glimpse of God’s Glory
Whether we consider God’s essence, dwelling, dominion, or works, we see in everything He is high and glorious. Thomas Hodges, A Glimpse of God’s Glory
When we perform our duties, we are usually so cold and perfunctory, that we do not care how it ends up. Thomas Hodges, A Glimpse of God’s Glory
Christ is infinitely above us. It is a wonderful condescension that He will live a moment for us. David Clarkson on Christ’s Intercession.
As the heart is either pure or wicked, so is the whole course of a man’s life. C. Matthew McMahon, Sermon on Proverbs 4:23.
Love flows through all the duties of religion, to give them the color of holiness. C. Matthew McMahon, Sermon on 2 Tim. 1:13.
No man can prove himself a Christian, if he does not hate sin. William Plumer, A Comfort For the Afflicted Christian
Heirs of life hate sin, love holiness, know God, and are known by God; the main pillars of the fabric of Christian joy, safety and comfort. Piety is indispensable to the saving of the soul of the preacher. William Plumer, Call to the Ministry
No man who is without eminent piety need give the matter of a call to the ministry his attention. William Plumer, Call to the Ministry
The preacher should regard himself as, a channel for what ought to be conveyed by him into the heart of his hearers. Alexander Vinet, Pastoral Theology
There is a Gospel, because there are evils to be cured. Alexander Vinet, Pastoral Theology
The Pastor awakens and strengthens in man thoughts which must determine and control his whole life. Alexander Vinet, Pastoral Theology
Can’t you so much glorify God and make his name high in this land, where he so well deserves it? Thomas Hodges, A Glimpse of God’s Glory
Christians are to pray for strength enabling us in the business of advancing God’s glory in the world. Thomas Hodges, A Glimpse of God’s Glory
When we honor God, this means to give God that weight and value which is due to him because of who He is. Francis Woodcock, Christ’s Warning
Christians ought to always lay open the shame of the religion of Roman Catholicism as a whore utterly naked. Francis Woodcock, Christ’s Warning
A Christian’s righteousness is a Christian’s garments; both of which come from Christ. Francis Woodcock, Christ’s Warning
An idle person is the Devil’s shop, there he works, ever busy when men are most idle. Thomas Gouge, Walking with God
Fixed meditation is when the soul deliberately sets out to think on a spiritual truth, spiritually gain from it and apply it to the heart.
In sanctification, Christians are never neutral. They are either being sanctified or backsliding. C. Matthew McMahon, Reformed Apprentice Vol. 4
Truth’s beauty always lasts as fresh as at her first appearance to us, and always springs gloriously in greenness and pleasant fruits. Thomas Hodges
Repentance in this life is a condition if you expect glory in the life to come. Christopher Love, Heaven’s Glory
If holiness ended in shame it would be a shame, but holiness is but an entrance into glory. Christopher Love, Heaven’s Glory,
If the Lord brings a wicked man to heaven, it would be hell to him; for he who does not love grace on earth will never love it in heaven. Christopher Love, Heaven’s Glory
The true minister speaks in the name of God and has no wish to know anything except what he has learned from God himself. Alexander Vinet, Homiletics
For the minister, the pursuit of wandering sheep, should always be within the essence of our ministry. Alexander Vinet, Homiletics
Unction must never be lacking to true Christian preaching. Alexander Vinet, Homiletics,
The souls of men may as certainly be destroyed by poisoning as by starving. William Jenkyn (Exposition of Jude).
To give knowledge, to produce faith, is the two-fold task of the preacher in every sermon. Alexander Vinet, Homiletics
The strength of towers, walls, or any creature, cannot secure sinners against God’s consuming indignation. Thomas Hodges, A Glimpse of God’s Glory
There is no day in the week in which the devil has been more served in all manner of ungodliness by men than on the Lord’s Day. T. Hodges
If the most petty prince will not endure to have his name abused and sleighted, never think the highest God of heaven will permit it. Thomas Hodges, A Glimpse of God’s Glory
Thomas Hodges clarifies whether ministers are good ministers seasoned with salt, or bad ministers who are useless. “God has permitted heresy to arise to put his people on a stricter inquiry after the truth. Thomas Hodges, The Growth and Spreading of Heresy
It’s God’s just judgment on all who do not receive his truth in love, to give them up to walk in their own counsels. Thomas Hodges, The Growth and Spreading of Heresy
Supernatural grace gives a sinner’s humility its quality. C. Matthew McMahon, Humiliation Precedes Reformation on 2 Chronicles 33:11-13
If heresies did not have some pretty paint to cause them to stand out they would be condemned and detested by everyone. Thomas Hodges, The Growth and Spreading of Heresy
Heresies corrupt men’s minds robbing them of beauty, peace, piety, and all spiritual worth. Thomas Hodges, The Growth and Spreading of Heresy
Heresies corrupt all faculties of the soul, and discover themselves in the filthy, ungodly practices of those that entertain them. Thomas Hodges, The Growth and Spreading of Heresy
While pastors are here fulfilling their ministry they are either the worthiest of men or the most unworthy of men. John Jackson, The Worthy Churchman
Ministers must in our dogma and rhetoric stoop to the capacity of the weak, than raise method to the ability of a couple of intellectuals. John Jackson, The Worthy Churchman
If ministers offend God in a lack of temperance, they should turn that wine into the tears of godly sorrow. John Jackson, The Worthy Churchman
Christ crucified must be the subject of all the minister’s preaching. John Jackson, The Worthy Churchman
Christian knowledge has no enemy but an ignorant man, nor godliness but a wicked man. John Jackson, The Worthy Churchman
Ministers must not flatter, preach pleasing things, sow pillows under people’s elbows, or throw sugar on them, when salt is necessary. John Jackson, The Worthy Churchman
Wise men do not send fools on errands. A wise God would have his ministers seasoned with salt, thoroughly furnished to every good work. Thomas Hodges
All you elect of God, do not fear death; death fits your bodies for that estate in which you shall live with Christ in glory forever. Christopher Love, Heaven’s Glory
Men in heaven shall know who are damned in hell, yet they shall not know it in a way of compassion or sorrow. Christopher Love, Heaven’s Glory
Do not lose lying in Abraham’s bosom for now lying in Delilah’s lap. Christopher Love, Heaven’s Glory
In heaven, the Christian’s body shall be physical and spiritual, so they shall be immortal bodies that shall never die. Christopher Love, Heaven’s Glory
Morality is the doctrine of manners, or of practical life, considered in its relations to Law and grace. Alexander Vinet, Homiletics
Every preacher ought to adopt these words of Paul; they are the Christian preacher’s motto; he is to know nothing but Jesus Christ. Alexander Vinet, Homiletics
Prayer is reducing the mysteries of godliness into practice. Daniel Burgess, Directions for Daily Holy Living
God will not act for them, whose prayers do not quicken them to act for him. Daniel Burgess, Directions for Daily Holy Living
In nature, I can’t live without breathing. In grace, I cannot live without praying. Daniel Burgess, Directions for Daily Holy Living
God will condemn those by his Word, who will not judge themselves by it. Daniel Burgess, Directions for Daily Holy Living
Ingratitude to God turns honey into gall, and medicine to poison. Daniel Burgess, Directions for Daily Holy Living
If it weren’t for prayer, I could not live. Daniel Burgess, Directions for Daily Holy Living, 69.
Apathetic ministers don’t watch and strive against an inanimate lifeless formality in the use of holy things, nor of extravagancy from them. Daniel Burgess, Directions for Daily Holy Living
Acting irreverently at a sermon is a public call to God for damnation. Daniel Burgess, Directions for Daily Holy Living, 24.
Receive every sermon from the preacher as by Christ preached, and do not doubt but it will be by Christ blessed. Daniel Burgess, Directions for Daily Holy Living
Calvin said in relation to using time well, “Christ will not find me idle.” Quoted by Daniel Burgess in “Holy Living,” 13.
The minister speaks either on the part of man to God, or on the part of God to man; in the first he prays, in the second he preaches. Alexander Vinet
As much as pastoral zeal in the care of souls adds force to preaching, so much does negligence in the pastor enfeeble the preacher. Alexander Vinet
The preacher is, in effect, nothing, if he does not combine the Reformer and the missionary into his office. Alexander Vinet
The pastor should see that everything in the church proceeds in proper order, from the entrance to the departure, and during worship. Alexander Vinet, Pastoral Theology
The mission of the minister, his avowed undertaking, is to detach from the earth those to whom he preaches. Alexander Vinet, Pastoral Theology
Considering the learned preacher, the Reformers were the learned men of their age. Unenlightened men have never succeeded in any thing. Alexander Vinet, Pastoral Theology
We must love the flock in order to preach to it well. Alexander Vinet, Pastoral Theology
The minister’s life is a life of consecration, without which it has no meaning. Alexander Vinet, Pastoral Theology
As God communicates his graces in an unequal manner in this life, so he shall crown them in an unequal manner in the life to come. Christopher Love, Christ’s Ascension
Adam was created with a capacity to lose all his excellency, and did lose it. Christopher Love, Christ’s Ascension
Our Lord Jesus Christ is ascended to heaven beforehand to prepare a place for the elect there. Christopher Love, Christ’s Ascension
Worship, preaching, and catechizing all belong to the office of the minister. They mutually suppose and contain one another. Alexandre Vinet
The soul of biblical expository preaching is the application. Peter van Mastricht, The Best Method of Preaching
In expository preaching the minister brings the mind of the hearer into direct and immediate contact with the mind of the Spirit. William Taylor
The theologian, above all men, should possess insight. JW Alexander, Thoughts on Preaching
“A perversion of the pulpit is surely followed by spiritual apostasy in the Church.” RL Dabney
If ministers cared more for their people and less for their own sermons, they would be more useful. Thomas Murphy
Many a preacher is now in hell, that has a hundred times called on his hearers to use the utmost care and diligence to escape it. Richard Baxter
In respect of the glory of God, He is said to be in heaven because in that place he chiefly manifests his glory and goodness. Thomas Hodges
God set up the ministry of the Word in the world to turn poor undone men from spiritual bondage to the living God. Thomas Hodges
Here is the great evidence for heaven: are your hearts prepared? Then you may be assured that heaven is prepared for you. Christopher Love, Christ’s Ascension and Second Coming
“God oftentimes makes our sufferings to be inlets to our glory.” Christopher Love, Christ’s Ascension and Second Coming
On earth Christians enjoy Christ’s Spirit by drops; in heaven they shall enjoy the fullness of the ocean. Christopher Love, Christ’s Ascension and Second Coming
As one elect, you must think that when you come to die, your death bed is the very suburbs of heaven. Christopher Love, Christ’s Ascension and Second Coming
To the people of God there is no doctrine so comfortable as the doctrine of Christ’s coming to judge the world. Christopher Love, Christ’s Ascension and Second Coming
Christ, our High Priest, has the names of all the elect not only on his breast but in his heart. Christopher Love, Christ’s Ascension and Second Coming
Neutrality in spiritual things is an infallible demonstration of a graceless heart. Simeon Ashe, The Zealous Christian
Passion is rash, but patience is advised and discreet. Thomas Valentine, The Church’s Need of Jesus Christ
God’s regenerating power is greater than the strength of the world, hell, or man’s wicked heart; he can draw the worst sinners to Christ. Simeon Ashe, The Zealous Christian
A man must not expect to be justified by his own works, or accepted because of his own goodness, or be saved by his own merits. Simeon Ashe, The Zealous Christian
Those who deny the Deity of Christ, the authority of the Holy Scripture, their obligation to the Moral Law, etc., forsake Christ. Simeon Ashe, The Zealous Christian
All men in their natural condition are absent and at a distance from Christ. This is apparent because “coming” premises “absence.” Simeon Ashe, The Zealous Christian
Christ is in both life and death the Christian’s most needed and only satisfying advantage. Simeon Ashe, The Efficiency of God’s Grace
Erroneous opinions, repugnant to the word of truth, are such evils as we should endeavor to consume with the flames of zeal. Simeon Ashe, The Efficiency of God’s Grace
It is incumbent on ministers to stand as zealous champions for the doctrines of God’s grace.(Phil. 1:17). Simeon Ashe, The Zealous Christian
Roman Catholic doctrine and the Pope’s teaching is an abomination which brings desolation. Simeon Ashe, Real Thankfulness
Threats and blows drive hypocrites to duty, but cords of love draw the gracious heart to an exact walking with his God. Simeon Ashe, Real Thankfulness
The end of God’s bounty, is man’s duty. Simeon Ashe (d. 1662), From the work, “Real Thankfulness”, ,
Clothes show what people are; it uncovers their hearts. It shows whether people are chaste or immoral, proud or grave. William Gearing
Considering afflictions, if we were fit and ready to receive God’s benefits, he would open his hand, and deal more liberally with us. Calvin
A single sin not speedily and truly repented of, will justly become the mother and cause of more sin. Hannibal Gammon in God’s Striking to Correct or Revenge
Sins are more easily kept out, than cast out. Augustine, quoted by Hannibal Gammon in God’s Striking to Correct or Revenge
Your faith is hard-hearted if it can suffer Christ to be punished by God with so many sorrows for your sins, and you will not forgo them. Hannibal Gammon in God’s Striking to Correct or Revenge
Bear the rod of correction, lest you feel the hammer of confusion. St. Bernard qu. by Hannibal Gammon in God’s Striking to Correct or Revenge
We must not measure our afflictions by the present pain we feel, but by the benefit that follows after them (Hebrews 12:11). Hannibal Gammon in God’s Striking to Correct or Revenge
The true fear of God can cause a spiritual earthquake in a man’s heart, able to overthrow all the Devil’s strongest holds or bosom sins. Hannibal Gammon in God’s Striking to Correct or Revenge
It is against the nature of grace, not to be in motion, not to increase in being more holy. Hann. Gammon God’s Just Desertion
God, in forgiving the righteous’ sins, esteems them as no sins, blotting them out and nailing them to his Son’s cross. Hannibal Gammon in God’s Just Desertion of the Unjust and Other Works
God’s punishment to a wicked man is his wicked mind. Hannibal Gammon, Westminster Divine, God’s Just Desertion of the Unjust and Other Works
Those which are afflicted by God in trials should pray to be bettered before they are delivered. Thomas Valentine, The Church’s Need of Jesus Christ
It is just with God to punish us in that thing we idolize. Thomas Valentine, The Church’s Need of Jesus Christ
God does not intend good towards wicked men, but only the glory of his justice. Thomas Valentine, The Church’s Need of Jesus Christ
Patience is a quiet silent temper of soul, by which we submit to God in all our crosses. Thomas Valentine, The Church’s Need of Jesus Christ
The Papists will not have a heaven that costs them nothing. They will merit it, otherwise they will not have it. Thomas Valentine, The Church’s Need of Jesus Christ
To come to Christ, for the Christian, is a continual recourse to him for the increase of all saving graces. Thomas Valentine, The Church’s Need of Jesus Christ
Men do not come to Christ (negligence), cannot come to Christ (impotence), and will not come to Christ (wickedness). Thomas Valentine, The Church’s Need of Jesus Christ
The wicked mourn in hell not because they have sinned but because they are punished. William Gearing, God’s Sovereignty Displayed
The world’s goods are the influences of God’s Providence, not his love; only the riches of his grace is the influence of his love and favor. William Gearing, God’s Sovereignty Displayed
The Devil is the best Arminian preacher. He’s been most used by God to propagate the natural man’s religion. C. Matthew McMahon
Remorse for sin, without a return from sin to God, will afford you no comfort. Zachary Crofton (1626-1672), The Nature, Necessity and Character of True Repentance
Without the Law there is no transgression, so without the knowledge of the Law there can be no conviction. Zachary Crofton (1626-1672), The Nature, Necessity and Character of True Repentance
A Christian is not poor who is rich in grace; a man is not miserable that has Christ for his portion. William Gearing, God’s Sovereignty Displayed
If faith justifies the person, it is works that must justify that faith. John Brinsley, Union and Communion
Sincere endeavors to do God’s service is our whole work, but the success of these endeavors is God’s work. Stephen Marshall
Preaching and hearing are relatives. If there is a necessity on us to preach, by the same rule there lies a necessity on you to hear. John Brinsley, Union and Communion
If a man cannot mourn at hearing about the wrath of God, they must burn at feeling it. Stephen Marshall, Reformation
God’s wrath burns up mountains, earth, world, and all, and never rests until it abides in hell, with no bottom, there burning forever. Stephen Marshall, Reformation or Desolation
God’s wrath is a calm and quiet appointment of just punishment. Stephen Marshall, Reformation or Desolation
Whoever repents is careful not to sin again; and repentance has no excuse but confession. Ambrose, quoted by Zachary Crofton (1626-1672), The Nature, Necessity and Character of True Repentance
“I am born for nothing but repentance,” Tertullian. Quoted by Zachary Crofton (1626-1672), The Nature, Necessity and Character of True Repentance
The true nature of real repentance is a common theme, but little practiced; no indeed, little considered and understood. Zachary Crofton (1626-1672), The Nature, Necessity and Character of True Repentance
Unconfessed sin is the spring of horror, and principle of all amazement. David found no comfort until he confessed, (Psalm 32:3-5). Zachary Crofton (1626-1672), The Nature, Necessity and Character of True Repentance
False repentance, this devil’s faith, may produce a Judas’ repentance. Zachary Crofton (1626-1672), The Nature, Necessity and Character of True Repentance
Repentance is not by our own merit, but it springs into the soul by the mere good-will of God, and immediate power of the Holy Spirit. Zachary Crofton (1626-1672), The Nature, Necessity and Character of True Repentance
In repentance, there must be a recession from sin, and a reversion to God. Zachary Crofton (1626-1672), The Nature, Necessity and Character of True Repentance
Application is the life of divine meditation. John Ball, A Treatise of Divine Meditation
Always fear to offend God, and you need not fear any other peril. John Ball, A Treatise of Divine Meditation
Labor spent in the duties of religion is lost and the fruit perishes if we do not strive to perform them with life and power. John Ball, A Treatise of Divine Meditation
Mortification is a supernatural work of an Almighty power in which men are only instruments; the Spirit of Christ is the principal agent. John Ball, A Treatise of Divine Meditation
Romans 8:39, Death itself, which makes a separation between the soul and body, cannot make a separation between the believer and Christ. John Brinsley, Union and Communion
The only place a sinner is lovable is in Christ (Eph. 1-2). C. Matthew McMahon, Two Wills of God Made Easy
Calvinism is Christianity. Calvin will tell you he’s an Augustinian. Augustine will tell you he’s a Christian. Its all the same. C. Matthew McMahon
The Spirit is the fiery chariot that carries our souls through the way of piety to the country of happiness. Francis Rous, The Art of Happiness
None but God can pierce into man’s heart, binding his will & affections, even against his will & affections, with powerful & mighty chains. Francis Rous, The Art of Happiness
The touch of the woman drew from Christ a virtue to cure her, so believers draw from Him virtue for feeding their soul to eternal life. John Brinsley, Union and Communion
Godliness makes a man as like to God as a creature can be like to the Creator; but sin transforms us into the likeness of the devil. John Ball, A Treatise on Divine Meditation
We are ready most commonly to be called away by death, before we have learned how to live. John Ball, A Treatise on Divine Meditation
Don’t Forget Jonathan Edwards
Also visit the Jonathan Edwards section of this website. Though Edwards was not a puritan (which is a basic misconception), he was profoundly influenced by the Puritans and read much of their theology, as well as the writings of the Reformation. Edwards, for example, thought Christopher Love’s sermons on Hell were the best exposition of the doctrine overall. Edwards definitely is one of the greatest theological minds to come after the puritan movement. On this site are all his works found in most of the recent double volume books of his works.
What About Ramean Logic?
If you are interested in Ramist Logic and the logical thought of the puritans, then you need to read this work: Peter Ramus and the Educational Reformation of the 16th Century by Frank Graves. Ramist thought was a way the Puritans were taught logical principles and how those principles aided them in being precisionists – astounding expositors of the Word of God. This work on Ramean Logic by Frank Graves is an excellent history of Peter Ramus who changed the world as a result of his writings on logic. An excellent work both in hardback and ebook.