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Constrained by his loveA new biography of Robert Murray McCheyneEssential for all new ministersCONSTRAINED BY HIS LOVE Robert Murray McCheyne is best remembered today for his famous Bible reading plan - and yet it rates only a paragraph's mention in this substantial biography of the Scottish preacher. During his short life, McCheyne became one of the leaders of the 19th-century Scottish revival, as well as being actively involved in the Zionist, Sabbatarian and church-building causes of the day. His personal, humble conviction by the Holy Spirit, and passion for the gospel and his 'flock' in Dundee, shine out through this book. His words could be speaking about today: 'How much deadness there is among true Christians. There is an abundance of head knowledge, but ah, where is the simple faith in the Lord Jesus and love to all the saints?' A thorough Calvinist, McCheyne's godly handling of the politics and lukewarm church of the day represent an inspiring example in our own church lives. Although the biography feels quite long, and has become stilted in places through translation from the author's original Dutch work, it is well illustrated and uses many quotations from McCheyne's correspondence and contemporaries. The story of McCheyne's spiritual awakening as a young man, and the way that experience shaped his later ministry, will be particularly useful for the reader. His life and work will be a challenge to any reader - but especially to a young man just starting out in ministry himself. The ideal ordination gift. Richard Bray,
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