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Preacher to the remnant

The story of James Renwick

Will history repeat itself?

PREACHER TO THE REMNANT
The story of James Renwick
By Maurice Grant
Scottish Reformation Society (01236 827978, info@scottishreformationsociety.org.uk)
280 pages. £17.95
ISBN 978-0-9511484-9-5

Maurice Grant has given us great insight into the life of an outstanding Christian, whose preaching ministry, though brief, had a profound effect on the people and government of Scotland.

Apart from the initial chapters, the book covers the years 1681 to 1688, from when Renwick joined the Society at the age of 19 to his untimely death. Grant’s style is clear, precise and thorough. His research into his subject is visible on every page. As a reader, you may know very little about the Scottish Reformation Society or the significance of its history or the impact of the faith of its members on the church today. Here is your chance to remedy all of this in one volume.

Grant’s account is a fascinating study of the courage that is needed to make a stand in the face of adversity. Not everyone will agree with Renwick’s viewpoint, but there can be no question of his godliness or Christ-like character. He understood, as few others did, the principles of the Reformation that his people had agreed to uphold. When I began reading, I felt very much like a foreigner with little comprehension of the stand that Renwick felt compelled to take. But as I continued, though still a foreigner, I came to understand to a greater degree why Renwick opposed what he saw as unacceptable compromise.

One good reason for reading this well-written volume is that history has a habit of repeating itself. It is no secret that as Christians in Britain we are continuing to face an encroaching opposition from our own society. It may be that Renwick’s example will become even more relevant in the days ahead, as those in the pew become more like the remnant and those previously in the pulpit find themselves preaching across the fields and moors.

Rick Battenfield,
minister, Eythorne Baptist Church, Kent