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Richard Baxter and conversionClarion callRICHARD BAXTER AND CONVERSION Do you want to know what an Amyraldian is or what constitutes the ‘political method’ in interpretation? Then this is your book. But should you be somewhat less than enthusiastic about a publication which has a very large section of End Notes and is clearly an edited doctoral thesis, then heed these words of Jim Packer in the Foreword: ‘So do not be frightened by the apparatus of scholarship; look for the jewels of wisdom. You will find them, and you will be blessed’. Richard Baxter was a wonderful blend of preacher, pastor, writer and scholar. He was a great soul winner in his ministry at Kidderminster in days not unlike the contemporary challenge to the church in this country. His quote on preaching as ‘a dying man to dying men’ hangs on my study wall to keep me on target. This book highlights Baxter’s balanced theology on the work of conversion — mostly a gradual process — and underlines the pre-eminence of passionate preaching in that process. In this thorough analysis of Baxter’s writings on this vital theme the place of the church is given its rightful place. He cared little for denominational labels, though some might squirm at his attack on ‘independency’. This Anglican reviewer was heartened by Baxter’s covenant defence of infant baptism! Yet we are constantly reminded that truly evangelical ministry is much more than theory. It is a matter of life and death, demanding pastoral care, visitation and compassionate discipline, not always the mark of the 21st-century church in Britain. Nor is it merely a clerical duty, even though Baxter has a very high view of the ordained pastor. This book echoes Baxter’s clarion call from the 17th century to pray and work for conversions with evangelism our top priority. It appropriately comes from the pen of the Billy Graham Professor of Evangelism. Philip H.Hacking, © Evangelicals Now - March 2008 |