Faith Seeking Assurance by Anthony Burgess (20-Feb-2015) Paperback

Puritan Treasures for Today

by Anthony Burgess

It is not uncommon for professing Christians to question the genuineness of their faith. In seasons like this, they can wonder whether it is even possible to know for sure if they are in a state of saving grace. In this book, Anthony Burgess shows that Christians not only can come to an assurance of their salvation but should pursue it. Burgess provides helpful advice for avoiding a presumptuous spirit while developing a humble confidence in grace. Here is a book that will help you understand the marks of grace and avoid some common abuses associated with self-examination. Read it with an open Bible and a prayerful heart, looking to the Holy Spirit as your faith seeks assurance. Table of Preface The Necessity and Advantage of Assurance Additional Advantages of Assurance Can Hypocrites Attain Practical Knowledge about Religion? Assurance May Be Experienced The Adjuncts of Assurance The Difference Between True Assurance and Presumption Remedies for Carnal Confidence and Directions to the Godly Who Lack Assurance Marks of Grace and Assurance Using Signs for Assurance and Proving That They Evidence Justification The Lawfulness and Obligation of Proceeding by Signs, and Answering Doubts How People Miscarry in Self-Examination by Signs The Duty and Particulars of Assurance The Assurance of Our Calling Demonstrated, and Answers to Objections Assurance versus Presumption, with Directions to the Godly Author Anthony Burgess (d. 1664) was a member of the Westminster Assembly and pastor in Sutton Coldfield. Series Description Interest in the Puritans continues to grow, but many people find reading these giants of the faith a bit unnerving. This series seeks to overcome that barrier by presenting Puritan books that are convenient in size and unintimidating in length. Each book is carefully edited with modern readers in mind, smoothing out difficult language of a bygone era while retaining the meaning of the original authors. Books for the series are thoughtfully selected to provide some of the best counsel on important subjects that people continue to wrestle with today. Endorsement “Anthony Burgess laments, ‘In former times Christians labored much for experimental knowledge, while today they are satisfied with mere brain knowl­edge.’ With biblical, practical, and Christ-focused wisdom, characteristic of the Puritans generally, Burgess helps us assess the reality of our own spiritual condition. He takes us through the Scriptures to the promises of Christ Himself, for to know Him is the assurance of eternal life. Joel Beeke has done the church of the twenty-first century a great service by making this work of the seventeenth century accessible to all who refuse to be satisfied with ‘mere brain knowledge’ of the Savior.” — Stephen J. Casselli, senior minister, Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church, Tampa, Florida

Genres: Theology, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Christian, Faith

Paperback

First published February 20, 2015

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Anthony Burgess (d. 1664) was a member of the Westminster Assembly and pastor in Sutton Coldfield.

Reviews

[Matt Escher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Burgess opens with his strength in contrasting genuine faith with hypocritical faith through bold imagery that convict and stir the heart. That is the theme throughout with explanations of the necessity (positively and in response to opposition of the doctrine) and benefits of assurance of faith delivered with pastoral sensitivity and concern. Overall a worthwhile read, easy to do with the modernization of language and the short chapters.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

RHB is doing a great job selecting outstanding, devotional, and practical Puritan works for this series.
Reading the selections in this book has encouraged me to read the full treatise. What a masterful work on assurance! Burgess displays great wisdom and understanding. You will most certainly be blessed by reading this book.

[Md Meiser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an encouraging work on assurance. This is my favorite book thus far this year. I recommend it heartily.

[Jon Pentecost · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoughtful, careful exploration of the question: Can I be assured of God's grace? What a wonderful time of reflecting on God's loving care for his people.

Highly recommend.