published by the Scottish Reformation Society, paperback, 71 pages, £5.00.
This book was written with the conviction that “the urgent call to the Church today is: ‘Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works’ (Rev 2:5)”. The following chapter headings give a good indication of the Church problems considered in the book: “The toleration of false doctrine and the lack of discipline”, “Widespread ignorance”, “Rampant antinomianism and disregard for the Lord’s Day”, “Sensuality in worship, and absence of the Holy Spirit”, “The lack of militancy and of spiritual warfare in the Church”, “The lack of Church order and government”, “The low state of the ministry”, “The neglect of Church history and forgetfulness of God’s mercies in the past”. In each case, the author also points to the scriptural remedy.
The encouraging words of John Owen are quoted in the book, “I believe truly that when God has accomplished some end upon us and has stained the glory of all flesh, He will renew the power and glory of religion among us again, even in this nation”. To consider the themes of this book and Owen’s hopeful statement should prompt us to pray, even in our degenerate age, for the Lord to arise and have mercy on His Church.