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The Marrow of Modern Divinty
An intriguing book, quite unlike any other The Marrow of Modern Divinity defies pigeonholing. It was written in the 1600s by an author of whom we know little, yet it proved to be a critically important and controversial theological text.
Penned as dialogue between a minister(Evangelista), a young Christian(Neophytus), a legalist(Nomista) who believes Christianity is a set of rules to be obeyed and Antinomista who thinks it's okay to sin because God will forgive him anyway, it makes for a wonderfully insightful book that remains tremendously relevant for our world today.
This newly laid out and eagerly awaited edition includes explanatory notes by the famous puritan Thomas Boston, an Introduction by Philip Ryken and an historical Introduction by William Vandoodewaard.
"Both legalism and antinomianism are perennial dangers for the church and for individual Christians. When we begin to think of the Christian life primarily as a list of "dos" and "don'ts," we are under the sway of legalism. When we begin to think that it is okay for us to go ahead and sin, because God will forgive us anyway, we are feeling the temptation of antinomianism.
The Marrow of Modern Divinity proclaims a gospel that can rescue us from both of these dangers. Filled with quotations from the great reformer Martin Luther and from the worthy Puritans, The Marrow emphasizes biblical, evangelical doctrines such as the sovereignty of God in the covenant of grace, the free offer of the gospel, assurance in Christ as the essence of faith, and sanctification by grace rather than by the law. Thomas Boston loved these grace-filled doctrines and discovered that they strengthened his hold on the precious gospel that he lived and preached."
Philip G. Ryken ~ President, Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois
"Anyone who comes to grips with the issues raised in The Marrow of Modern Divinity will almost certainly grow by leaps and bounds in understanding three things: the grace of God, the Christian life, and the very nature of the gospel itself. I personally owe it a huge debt. Despite their mild-mannered appearance, these pages contain a powerful piece of propaganda. Read them with great care!"
Sinclair B. Ferguson ~ Senior Minister, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina
"The Marrow of Modern Divinity is one of the most important theological texts of all time"
Derek Thomas ~ Minister of Preaching and Teaching, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina
"The Marrow addresses issues which are vital for evangelism and for the health and vitality of the Christianity and the church."
Evangelicals Now
"This truly evangelical volume is remarkably well done. This would be a great gift for your pastor and, if he takes it to heart and it changes his preaching, it could be a great gift to the whole congregation!"
R. Scott Clark ~ Professor of Church History and Historical Theology, Westminster Seminary, Escondido, California
Penned as dialogue between a minister(Evangelista), a young Christian(Neophytus), a legalist(Nomista) who believes Christianity is a set of rules to be obeyed and Antinomista who thinks it's okay to sin because God will forgive him anyway, it makes for a wonderfully insightful book that remains tremendously relevant for our world today.
This newly laid out and eagerly awaited edition includes explanatory notes by the famous puritan Thomas Boston, an Introduction by Philip Ryken and an historical Introduction by William Vandoodewaard.
"Both legalism and antinomianism are perennial dangers for the church and for individual Christians. When we begin to think of the Christian life primarily as a list of "dos" and "don'ts," we are under the sway of legalism. When we begin to think that it is okay for us to go ahead and sin, because God will forgive us anyway, we are feeling the temptation of antinomianism.
The Marrow of Modern Divinity proclaims a gospel that can rescue us from both of these dangers. Filled with quotations from the great reformer Martin Luther and from the worthy Puritans, The Marrow emphasizes biblical, evangelical doctrines such as the sovereignty of God in the covenant of grace, the free offer of the gospel, assurance in Christ as the essence of faith, and sanctification by grace rather than by the law. Thomas Boston loved these grace-filled doctrines and discovered that they strengthened his hold on the precious gospel that he lived and preached."
Philip G. Ryken ~ President, Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois
"Anyone who comes to grips with the issues raised in The Marrow of Modern Divinity will almost certainly grow by leaps and bounds in understanding three things: the grace of God, the Christian life, and the very nature of the gospel itself. I personally owe it a huge debt. Despite their mild-mannered appearance, these pages contain a powerful piece of propaganda. Read them with great care!"
Sinclair B. Ferguson ~ Senior Minister, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina
"The Marrow of Modern Divinity is one of the most important theological texts of all time"
Derek Thomas ~ Minister of Preaching and Teaching, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina
"The Marrow addresses issues which are vital for evangelism and for the health and vitality of the Christianity and the church."
Evangelicals Now
"This truly evangelical volume is remarkably well done. This would be a great gift for your pastor and, if he takes it to heart and it changes his preaching, it could be a great gift to the whole congregation!"
R. Scott Clark ~ Professor of Church History and Historical Theology, Westminster Seminary, Escondido, California
539 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1645
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 1, 2019
I don’t know if I can overstate how much I have benefitted from and enjoyed this book. Edward Fisher, a Puritan layman, writes an extensive discussion (in the form of a Socratic Dialogue) about the distinction between Law and Gospel. This subject, too often neglected by modern day theological discussions (including in Reformed and Reformedish circles) is necessary for all Christians to study. Martin Luther said, “Anyone who can judge rightly between the law and the Gospel should thank God and know that he is a true theologian.” It is very easy to err on this issue, as all men are naturally inclined towards Legalism, and the natural response to rejecting Legalism is to swing towards Antinomianism. Edward Fisher’s “Middle Way” does an expert job at avoiding both of these pitfalls.
Most of the people I’ve spoken to generally didn’t enjoy Thomas Boston’s notes (and one of the few who did didn’t enjoy Mr. Fisher’s dialogue). However, I found Mr. Boston’s notes to be very helpful, adding insight that wasn’t present in Mr. Fisher’s original dialogue and offering clarification on certain statements that may be troublesome for some. I’ll admit, sometimes the notes do distract from the original dialogue (some of the notes go on long, and at one point there’s as many as 10 pages of notes commenting on a single page of the dialogue). However, if one learns to manage the way they read it, they can minimize the distraction the notes cause (I would suggest reading the dialogue by sections and then going back and reading the notes once you’re finished).
A certain sphere of Social Media has recently been going at this book with accusations of Amyraldianism and Baxterianism, yet these accusations are completely unfounded (the latter accusation actually makes it evident that the accusers have never read the book, as Mr. Boston critiques Richard Baxter by name). As Dr. R. Scott Clark has pointed out, those who make these arguments need to read “Marrow” (along with other works by Mr. Boston and the works of Mr. Erskine) for themselves, because, “Anyone who thinks that Baxter and the Marrow Men can be mentioned in the same breath has not read them.”
Mr. Fisher’s Reformed perspective is helpful because it rightly recognizes this Law/Gospel distinction as connected to the idea of Covenant. This especially is helpful because of the vein of Covenant Theology Mr. Fisher and Mr. Boston hold to. Both are Republicationists, teaching that the Mosaic Covenant was a republication of the Adamic Covenant of Works. This coincides very well with the Law/Gospel distinction (in fact, it’s very difficult - nearly impossible - to make the distinction work well without Republication). The two authors seem to disagree about what the end of the Mosaic Covenant, with Mr. Boston seeming to believe it was a covenant unto life and Mr. Fisher - closer to my own view - believing it was a covenant unto “special ends” (which he explains as being status in the land). (I must note, there is variation on interpreting Mr. Fisher on this point).
I found the teaching on Sanctification especially helpful, as - though I’ve always leaned toward Monergistic Sanctification by Faith Alone - I’ve never really had the language to articulate it.
The Socratic Dialogue really adds to the message. From that, you can read how Mr. Fisher (represented by Evangelista) would guide a new believer (represented by Neophytus) to avoid these issues. The Legalist (Nomista) and Antinomian (Antinomista) are given opportunities to present their views. However, Mr. Fisher doesn’t just leave these latter two aren’t just shown to be stubborn, but actually come to embrace what Evangelista is teaching them, providing insight into people coming out of Legalism/Antinomianism and allowing Mr. Fisher to give pastoral instruction (through Evangelista) about how to come out of those errors and how to help others come out of those errors.
Overall, I’d say this book is one of my favorite books I’ve read thusfar. It can tend to be long-winded and speculative, but is also very informative and on a subject of immense importance. If you decide to read it: don’t rush, take your time (it took me three months), and you will certainly benefit from your studies.
Most of the people I’ve spoken to generally didn’t enjoy Thomas Boston’s notes (and one of the few who did didn’t enjoy Mr. Fisher’s dialogue). However, I found Mr. Boston’s notes to be very helpful, adding insight that wasn’t present in Mr. Fisher’s original dialogue and offering clarification on certain statements that may be troublesome for some. I’ll admit, sometimes the notes do distract from the original dialogue (some of the notes go on long, and at one point there’s as many as 10 pages of notes commenting on a single page of the dialogue). However, if one learns to manage the way they read it, they can minimize the distraction the notes cause (I would suggest reading the dialogue by sections and then going back and reading the notes once you’re finished).
A certain sphere of Social Media has recently been going at this book with accusations of Amyraldianism and Baxterianism, yet these accusations are completely unfounded (the latter accusation actually makes it evident that the accusers have never read the book, as Mr. Boston critiques Richard Baxter by name). As Dr. R. Scott Clark has pointed out, those who make these arguments need to read “Marrow” (along with other works by Mr. Boston and the works of Mr. Erskine) for themselves, because, “Anyone who thinks that Baxter and the Marrow Men can be mentioned in the same breath has not read them.”
Mr. Fisher’s Reformed perspective is helpful because it rightly recognizes this Law/Gospel distinction as connected to the idea of Covenant. This especially is helpful because of the vein of Covenant Theology Mr. Fisher and Mr. Boston hold to. Both are Republicationists, teaching that the Mosaic Covenant was a republication of the Adamic Covenant of Works. This coincides very well with the Law/Gospel distinction (in fact, it’s very difficult - nearly impossible - to make the distinction work well without Republication). The two authors seem to disagree about what the end of the Mosaic Covenant, with Mr. Boston seeming to believe it was a covenant unto life and Mr. Fisher - closer to my own view - believing it was a covenant unto “special ends” (which he explains as being status in the land). (I must note, there is variation on interpreting Mr. Fisher on this point).
I found the teaching on Sanctification especially helpful, as - though I’ve always leaned toward Monergistic Sanctification by Faith Alone - I’ve never really had the language to articulate it.
The Socratic Dialogue really adds to the message. From that, you can read how Mr. Fisher (represented by Evangelista) would guide a new believer (represented by Neophytus) to avoid these issues. The Legalist (Nomista) and Antinomian (Antinomista) are given opportunities to present their views. However, Mr. Fisher doesn’t just leave these latter two aren’t just shown to be stubborn, but actually come to embrace what Evangelista is teaching them, providing insight into people coming out of Legalism/Antinomianism and allowing Mr. Fisher to give pastoral instruction (through Evangelista) about how to come out of those errors and how to help others come out of those errors.
Overall, I’d say this book is one of my favorite books I’ve read thusfar. It can tend to be long-winded and speculative, but is also very informative and on a subject of immense importance. If you decide to read it: don’t rush, take your time (it took me three months), and you will certainly benefit from your studies.
August 27, 2023
Every preacher of the gospel needs to read this.
February 4, 2012
Let’s face it, covenant theology isn’t exactly the easiest thing to figure out. There are always those nagging questions. For example: "Was Israel really in some sort of ‘covenant of works’? What is the exact difference between the ‘law’ and the ‘gospel’? Where do works come into the equation of our salvation?
These and many other issues are intuitively addressed and ingenuously explained in this masterful volume of 17th century English theology. This is both a work of art and a work of theology. The author (Edward Fisher) has drawn form a broad spectrum of reformed divinity on covenant theology and then translated it (as it were) into very laymen’s terms. This is both church history and biblical exegesis, wrapped into engaging dialogues between four characters: “Evangelista,” “Antinomista,” “Nomista,” and “Neophytus.” The following is an excerpt having to do with man's Natural Bias Towards the Covenant of Works:
"Alas! there are thousands in the world that make a Christ of their works; and here is their undoing, &c. They look for righteousness and acceptation more in the precept than in the promise, in the law than the gospel, in working than in believing; and so miscarry. Many poor ignorant souls amongst us, when we bid them obey and do duties, they can think of nothing but working themselves to life; when they are troubled, they must lick themselves whole, when wounded, they must run to the salve of duties, and stream of performances, and neglect Christ. Nay, it is to be feared that there be divers [many] who in words are able to distinguish between the law and gospel, and in their judgments hold and maintain, that man is justified by faith without the works of the law; and yet in effect and practice, that is to say, in heart and conscience, do otherwise. And there is some touch of this in us all; otherwise we should not be so up and down in our comforts and believing as we are still, and cast down with every weakness as we are."
Sinclair Ferguson says of this book:
"Anyone who comes to grips with the issues raised in the Marrow of Modern Divinity will almost certainly grow by leaps and bounds in understanding three things: the grace of God, the Christian life, and the very nature of the gospel itself. I personally owe it a huge debt."
Need I say more? “Pick up and read,” my friend. Pick up and read!
These and many other issues are intuitively addressed and ingenuously explained in this masterful volume of 17th century English theology. This is both a work of art and a work of theology. The author (Edward Fisher) has drawn form a broad spectrum of reformed divinity on covenant theology and then translated it (as it were) into very laymen’s terms. This is both church history and biblical exegesis, wrapped into engaging dialogues between four characters: “Evangelista,” “Antinomista,” “Nomista,” and “Neophytus.” The following is an excerpt having to do with man's Natural Bias Towards the Covenant of Works:
"Alas! there are thousands in the world that make a Christ of their works; and here is their undoing, &c. They look for righteousness and acceptation more in the precept than in the promise, in the law than the gospel, in working than in believing; and so miscarry. Many poor ignorant souls amongst us, when we bid them obey and do duties, they can think of nothing but working themselves to life; when they are troubled, they must lick themselves whole, when wounded, they must run to the salve of duties, and stream of performances, and neglect Christ. Nay, it is to be feared that there be divers [many] who in words are able to distinguish between the law and gospel, and in their judgments hold and maintain, that man is justified by faith without the works of the law; and yet in effect and practice, that is to say, in heart and conscience, do otherwise. And there is some touch of this in us all; otherwise we should not be so up and down in our comforts and believing as we are still, and cast down with every weakness as we are."
Sinclair Ferguson says of this book:
"Anyone who comes to grips with the issues raised in the Marrow of Modern Divinity will almost certainly grow by leaps and bounds in understanding three things: the grace of God, the Christian life, and the very nature of the gospel itself. I personally owe it a huge debt."
Need I say more? “Pick up and read,” my friend. Pick up and read!
October 29, 2025
For every mile of road, there are two miles of ditches. The Marrow aptly dissects how the heart veers into the ditch in terms of legalism and antinomianism. These two ditches are prevalent still today. It should be noted that he spends more time on legalism, mainly because they have gone so far down the way of works that their return to Christ is the most challenging. Or, their ditch is deeper. So much so that if I was teaching a course on pastoral ministry in the South, this would be required reading.
Fisher does not correct the problem of one by veering into the other; rather, he directs us over and over again to Christ. You cannot leave this book without a clearer understanding of the gospel scripturally and experientially.
Fisher does not correct the problem of one by veering into the other; rather, he directs us over and over again to Christ. You cannot leave this book without a clearer understanding of the gospel scripturally and experientially.
August 5, 2023
Outstanding.
March 5, 2020
I've read this book many times - and plan to re-read every few years.
This is one of, if not the best book ever written on the Law, Gospel, Legalism, Antinomianism, motivations for Christian living, and assurance of salvation. I would also add that toward the end, there's also a phenomenal expositions of the Ten Commandents, and a short essay on the importance of distinguishing law and gospel.
As a Baptist, I have a few qualms with the covenant theology in the first half of the book. But these are minor quibbles because the author's position is far closer to a Particular Baptist expression of CT than he is toward the Westminster Confession of Faith. If you're not well-versed in this discussion, I'd recommend reading this section alongside Pascal Denault's book "Distinctives of Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology."
Also note that this is not an easy book to get through if you take the pains to read Thomas Boston's notes alongside the dialogue. Boston's notes are helpful in expounding and explaining the text at points, but they're not necessary to grasping the main argument.
If you're a minister of the gospel, a counselor, someone who disciples others, or someone who studies theology, this is an absolute must-read.
This is one of, if not the best book ever written on the Law, Gospel, Legalism, Antinomianism, motivations for Christian living, and assurance of salvation. I would also add that toward the end, there's also a phenomenal expositions of the Ten Commandents, and a short essay on the importance of distinguishing law and gospel.
As a Baptist, I have a few qualms with the covenant theology in the first half of the book. But these are minor quibbles because the author's position is far closer to a Particular Baptist expression of CT than he is toward the Westminster Confession of Faith. If you're not well-versed in this discussion, I'd recommend reading this section alongside Pascal Denault's book "Distinctives of Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology."
Also note that this is not an easy book to get through if you take the pains to read Thomas Boston's notes alongside the dialogue. Boston's notes are helpful in expounding and explaining the text at points, but they're not necessary to grasping the main argument.
If you're a minister of the gospel, a counselor, someone who disciples others, or someone who studies theology, this is an absolute must-read.
May 25, 2015
I don't feel I am qualified to review such a book. I will, however, give a bit of my thoughts on it.
I appreciate Fisher's conversations to explain the believer's relationship to the Law, and the distinction between Law and Gospel. Also, the exposition of the ten commandments is as good as our catechism in what the Law requires of man.
Boston's notes, though sometimes a bit difficult to follow, in jumping between Boston's notes and Fisher's book, are helpful, and could be a book on their own.
I also enjoy how significant this book has been in history. The story before, and the testimony in the appendix help to place the book in its historical context, as well as to explain the significance.
One thing I would like to see though, is a modern language version, as sometimes the 1600s English, or Boston's 1700s English, is difficult to understand. I think it would make the book more approachable, and perhaps help many.
Finally, having chosen this book based on Dr. R. Scott Clark's recommendation, and summary on the Heidelcast, I can see how this serves to stand against and correct the errors of the Federal Vision and others who would try to bring in Romish doctrines. In the responses to the questioning in the appendix one can see how the Scottish Presbyterian Church was dealing with similar error. I hope this reprint will be used of God to continue to Reform the Church.
I appreciate Fisher's conversations to explain the believer's relationship to the Law, and the distinction between Law and Gospel. Also, the exposition of the ten commandments is as good as our catechism in what the Law requires of man.
Boston's notes, though sometimes a bit difficult to follow, in jumping between Boston's notes and Fisher's book, are helpful, and could be a book on their own.
I also enjoy how significant this book has been in history. The story before, and the testimony in the appendix help to place the book in its historical context, as well as to explain the significance.
One thing I would like to see though, is a modern language version, as sometimes the 1600s English, or Boston's 1700s English, is difficult to understand. I think it would make the book more approachable, and perhaps help many.
Finally, having chosen this book based on Dr. R. Scott Clark's recommendation, and summary on the Heidelcast, I can see how this serves to stand against and correct the errors of the Federal Vision and others who would try to bring in Romish doctrines. In the responses to the questioning in the appendix one can see how the Scottish Presbyterian Church was dealing with similar error. I hope this reprint will be used of God to continue to Reform the Church.
December 17, 2024
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT I'M NOT GOING TO TALK ABOUT...
The controversy or (most) of the history surrounding this book and its contents. This isn't that kind of blog, and it'd take more research and footnotes than I really want to take time for.
Okay, that's only kind of true. I'd love to spend time doing that, but I don't have time for it. And, again, that's not what I do here. Maybe in 15 or so years, I'll change my focus when I have more time and I'll start doing that sort of thing.
WHAT'S THE MARROW OF MODERN DIVINITY ABOUT?
The back of the book says:
(there are some problems with this, actually, but it'll do to get started)
In 1645, this book was originally published by "E.F." That's probably Edward Fisher—a layman theologian of a few works. But this didn't make much of an impact at the time. In 1700, Thomas Boston read it and it made a considerable impact on him, so much so that he and a colleague made arrangements to republish it—with the explanatory notes (some of which disagree with Fisher). Some of these notes are very brief, some are anything but.
PART ONE
As the above section said, this is a dialogue. Neophytus and his friend Nomista have been having some discussions with Antinomista and they haven't gone anywhere, so they agree to go talk to their minister, Evangelista, to help them sort it out. Basically, they've been wrangling about the place and use of the Law in the life of the Christian. Evangelista refuses to take either side, showing how both misunderstand things and helps Neophytus to come out of the influence of Nomista and to embrace the Scriptural understanding.
There are four chapters in this Part—"Of the Law of Works, or Covenant of Works," "Of the Law of Faith, or Covenant of Grace," and "Of the Law of Christ" take up the bulk of it. He covers the typical Covenant theology here, and applies it to the use of the Law throughout Redemptive History—and then brings it all home in the last chapter, "Of the Heart's Happiness, or Soul's Rest."
Throughout, Evangelista, expounds things in a way fully consistent with the Westminster Standards (and will appeal to them) and will invoke figures like Luther (most frequently), William Perkins, John Calvin, and others, but primarily he'll invoke Paul. He takes on several errors associated with antinomianism, neonomianism, and the rest—but he's more interested in positive teaching than correcting error.
If you ask me, it's easy to see why Boston would find this part of the book attractive and want to get it into the hands of as many people as possible. I do.
PART TWO
This part is not mentioned on the back of the book—it's a much shorter portion of the work, which is part of it. This time Neophytus brings another friend, Nomologista ("a Prattler of the Law"), to Evangelista to help settle a disagreement they're having. Nomologista tells him that "he is persuaded that he goes very near the perfect fulfilling of the law of God; but I cannot be persuaded to it." Nomologista affirms that's true and gives a very surface-level explanation of the Ten Commandments (in a sentence or two). He says he's pretty much followed those all his life.
Evangelista gives an explanation of the Ten Commandments, along with some other comments on the Law of God, obedience, and whatnot. At some point, NOmologista leaves the conversation and Neophytus and Evangelista wrap things up—with Evangelista giving some reassurance and further guidance to Neophystus.
On the whole, there's nothing revolutionary or unexpected about the exposition of the Commandments. I did think a couple of the applications Evangelista used were striking, but it's basically what you read in Watson, Calvin, Turreting or any of the Reformed Catechisms. The things that surprised me the most were the brevity of the comments on the 4th and 7th commandments were.
I did wonder about a couple of the comments Evangelista made in the last page or two. It's probably a problem with my comprehension, but my notes were basically, "Someone should tell Evangelista to read Part One of this book." I'm pretty sure I misunderstood something, actually.
On the other hand, a few pages earlier, when Evangelista goes through the commandments in a similar way that Nomologista did, except pointing out how Evangelista frequently breaks them all...it was so reassuring, so comforting to see that even this fictional paragon of theological precision and righteousness fails.
There's almost nothing (maybe nothing at all) by Boston here, it's just Fisher.
HOW TO READ THIS EDITION
I'm a little curious about how other editions of this work lay it out—but Christian Heritage lays out the book in a pretty handy way. About 2/3 of each page are Fisher's text, with some of Boston's briefer notes in brackets in the text. Some of his one or two-sentence notes are in the 1/3 that's primarily white space, or subject headings added by the editor.
And then every few pages, you get Boston's longer notes in double columns—they're all clearly labeled so you know what he's talking about.
I think that's clear enough, but if it's not, don't worry about it—there's a very handy two-page spread showing you all this at the front of the book.
Boston, in his prologue, suggests reading Fisher's text before the notes, so you can fully get the point of the notes. This makes sense, but you can see why he took the time to say it, because you occasionally will get on a roll with his notes and forget that he's trying to amplify, clarify, or respond to something else.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE MARROW OF MODERN DIVINITY?
I've frequently said (mostly to myself) that I didn't know why I haven't read this book at some point in the last 28 years or so—especially not in the 15 years since this edition came out. However many times I've said that prior to starting this book, I probably matched saying it while reading it. This is going to become one of those works I return to.
It's so clear. It's so helpful. It's so full of Gospel truth and assurance. It's so spot-on in describing the ditches of legalism and antinomianism that are so easy to fall into. And yet, it never gets nasty or harsh in the criticism of the errors, it just points at them and says, "Don't go there, and here's why." So few books along these lines manage that (I'm not saying they're wrong to show teeth, but Fisher/Boston show you don't need to).
I cannot recommend this enough.
---
The gospel method of sanctification, as well as of justification, lies so far out of the ken of natural reason, that if all the rationalists in the world, philosophers and divines, had consulted together to lay down a plan for repairing the lost image of God in man, they had never hit upon that which the divine wisdom has pitched upon, viz: that sinners should be sanctified in Christ Jesus, (1 Cor 1:2), by faith in him, (Acts 26:18); nay, being laid before them, they would have rejected it with disdain, as foolishness, (1 Cor 1:23).
WHAT I'M NOT GOING TO TALK ABOUT...
The controversy or (most) of the history surrounding this book and its contents. This isn't that kind of blog, and it'd take more research and footnotes than I really want to take time for.
Okay, that's only kind of true. I'd love to spend time doing that, but I don't have time for it. And, again, that's not what I do here. Maybe in 15 or so years, I'll change my focus when I have more time and I'll start doing that sort of thing.
WHAT'S THE MARROW OF MODERN DIVINITY ABOUT?
The back of the book says:
An intriguing book, quite unlike any other The Marrow of Modern Divinity defies pigeon-holing. It was written in the 1600s by an author of whom we know little, yet it proved to be a critically important and controversial theological text.
Penned as dialogue between a minister (Evangelista), a young Christian (Neophytus), a legalist (Nomista) who believes Christianity is a set of rules to be obeyed and Antinomista who thinks it's okay to sin because God will forgive him anyway, it makes for a wonderfully insightful book that remains tremendously relevant for our world today.
This newly laid out and eagerly awaited edition includes explanatory notes by the famous puritan Thomas Boston, an introduction by Philip Ryken and an historical introduction by William Vandoodewaard.
(there are some problems with this, actually, but it'll do to get started)
In 1645, this book was originally published by "E.F." That's probably Edward Fisher—a layman theologian of a few works. But this didn't make much of an impact at the time. In 1700, Thomas Boston read it and it made a considerable impact on him, so much so that he and a colleague made arrangements to republish it—with the explanatory notes (some of which disagree with Fisher). Some of these notes are very brief, some are anything but.
PART ONE
Say, then, I beseech you, with a firm faith, The righteousness of Jesus Christ belongs to all that believe, but I believe, and therefore it belongs to me. Yea, say with Paul, ‘I live by the faith of the Son of God who loved me, and gave himself for me’ (Gal. 2:20). “He saw in me (says Luther on the text) nothing but wickedness, going astray, and fleeing from him. Yet this good Lord had mercy on me, and of his mere mercy he loved me, yea, so loved me, that he gave himself for me. Who is this me? Even I, wretched and damnable sinner, was so dearly beloved of the Son of God that he gave himself for me.’
Oh! print this word ‘me’ in your heart, and apply it to your o," self, not doubting but that you are one of those to whom this ‘me’ belongs.
As the above section said, this is a dialogue. Neophytus and his friend Nomista have been having some discussions with Antinomista and they haven't gone anywhere, so they agree to go talk to their minister, Evangelista, to help them sort it out. Basically, they've been wrangling about the place and use of the Law in the life of the Christian. Evangelista refuses to take either side, showing how both misunderstand things and helps Neophytus to come out of the influence of Nomista and to embrace the Scriptural understanding.
There are four chapters in this Part—"Of the Law of Works, or Covenant of Works," "Of the Law of Faith, or Covenant of Grace," and "Of the Law of Christ" take up the bulk of it. He covers the typical Covenant theology here, and applies it to the use of the Law throughout Redemptive History—and then brings it all home in the last chapter, "Of the Heart's Happiness, or Soul's Rest."
Throughout, Evangelista, expounds things in a way fully consistent with the Westminster Standards (and will appeal to them) and will invoke figures like Luther (most frequently), William Perkins, John Calvin, and others, but primarily he'll invoke Paul. He takes on several errors associated with antinomianism, neonomianism, and the rest—but he's more interested in positive teaching than correcting error.
If you ask me, it's easy to see why Boston would find this part of the book attractive and want to get it into the hands of as many people as possible. I do.
PART TWO
This part is not mentioned on the back of the book—it's a much shorter portion of the work, which is part of it. This time Neophytus brings another friend, Nomologista ("a Prattler of the Law"), to Evangelista to help settle a disagreement they're having. Nomologista tells him that "he is persuaded that he goes very near the perfect fulfilling of the law of God; but I cannot be persuaded to it." Nomologista affirms that's true and gives a very surface-level explanation of the Ten Commandments (in a sentence or two). He says he's pretty much followed those all his life.
Evangelista gives an explanation of the Ten Commandments, along with some other comments on the Law of God, obedience, and whatnot. At some point, NOmologista leaves the conversation and Neophytus and Evangelista wrap things up—with Evangelista giving some reassurance and further guidance to Neophystus.
On the whole, there's nothing revolutionary or unexpected about the exposition of the Commandments. I did think a couple of the applications Evangelista used were striking, but it's basically what you read in Watson, Calvin, Turreting or any of the Reformed Catechisms. The things that surprised me the most were the brevity of the comments on the 4th and 7th commandments were.
I did wonder about a couple of the comments Evangelista made in the last page or two. It's probably a problem with my comprehension, but my notes were basically, "Someone should tell Evangelista to read Part One of this book." I'm pretty sure I misunderstood something, actually.
On the other hand, a few pages earlier, when Evangelista goes through the commandments in a similar way that Nomologista did, except pointing out how Evangelista frequently breaks them all...it was so reassuring, so comforting to see that even this fictional paragon of theological precision and righteousness fails.
There's almost nothing (maybe nothing at all) by Boston here, it's just Fisher.
HOW TO READ THIS EDITION
I'm a little curious about how other editions of this work lay it out—but Christian Heritage lays out the book in a pretty handy way. About 2/3 of each page are Fisher's text, with some of Boston's briefer notes in brackets in the text. Some of his one or two-sentence notes are in the 1/3 that's primarily white space, or subject headings added by the editor.
And then every few pages, you get Boston's longer notes in double columns—they're all clearly labeled so you know what he's talking about.
I think that's clear enough, but if it's not, don't worry about it—there's a very handy two-page spread showing you all this at the front of the book.
Boston, in his prologue, suggests reading Fisher's text before the notes, so you can fully get the point of the notes. This makes sense, but you can see why he took the time to say it, because you occasionally will get on a roll with his notes and forget that he's trying to amplify, clarify, or respond to something else.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE MARROW OF MODERN DIVINITY?
I beseech you to be persuaded that here you are to work nothing, here you are to do nothing, here you are to render nothing unto God, but only to receive the treasure, which is Jesus Christ, and apprehend him in your heart by faith, although you be never so great a sinner; and so shall you obtain forgiveness of sins, righteousness, and eternal happiness; not as an agent but as a patient, not by doing, but by receiving. Nothing here comes betwixt but faith only, apprehending Christ in the promise. This, then, is perfect righteousness, to hear nothing, to know nothing, to do nothing of the law of works; but only to know and believe that Jesus Christ is now gone to the Father, and sitreth at his right hand, not as a judge, but is made unto you of God, wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption? Wherefore, as Paul and Silas said to the jailer, so say [ unto you, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved’; that is, be verily persuaded in your heart that Jesus Christ is yours, and that you shall have life and salvation by him; that whatsoever Christ did for the redemption of mankind, he did it for you.
I've frequently said (mostly to myself) that I didn't know why I haven't read this book at some point in the last 28 years or so—especially not in the 15 years since this edition came out. However many times I've said that prior to starting this book, I probably matched saying it while reading it. This is going to become one of those works I return to.
It's so clear. It's so helpful. It's so full of Gospel truth and assurance. It's so spot-on in describing the ditches of legalism and antinomianism that are so easy to fall into. And yet, it never gets nasty or harsh in the criticism of the errors, it just points at them and says, "Don't go there, and here's why." So few books along these lines manage that (I'm not saying they're wrong to show teeth, but Fisher/Boston show you don't need to).
I cannot recommend this enough.
August 17, 2010
A devotional elenctic theology from the time of Cromwell, this forgotten book really should not have been forgotten. Cast in the form of a Q&A session between a new Christian (Neophytus), a legalist (Nomista), an antinomian (Antinomista) and a preacher (Evangelista), the work extensively covers the nature of and relationship between the Law and the Gospel. In short, the Christian is utterly and completely free from the condemning power of the law.
Though the content is great, the edition leaves a lot to be desired. Boston's notes are decent, but can be dull and even distracting at times. Even worse, the modern editors have done an exceptionally poor job of organizing the volume. Though it is fairly easy to read in terms of typeset and font size, the transitions between the text and Boston's notes are awkward and disrupt the flow of the reading. Even more, the modern editor failed to provide additional notes where they would have been useful (explaining obscure words and references, suggesting further reading, etc).
Highly recommended for all Christians who have the ability/desire to read one of the best Puritan works.
-"God will have none to have a hand in the justification and salvation of a sinner, but Christ only. And to say as the thing is... Christ Jesus will either be a whole Saviour, or no Saviour; he will either save you alone, or not save you at all." (112)
-"All the covenant that believers ar eto have regard to, for life and salvation, is the free and gracious covenant that is betwixt Christ (or God in Christ) and them. And in this covenant there is not any condition or law to be performed on man's part, by himself; no there is no more for him to do, but only to know and believe that Christ hath done all for him... I beseech you to be persuaded that here you are to work nothing, here you are to do nothing, here you are to render nothing unto God, but only to receive the treasure, which is Jesus Christ, and apprehend him in your heart by faith, although you be never so great a sinner, and so shall you obtain forgiveness of sins, righteousness, and eternal happiness; not as an agent but as a patient, not by doing, but by receiving. Nothing here comes betwixt but faith only, apprehending Christ in the promise. This, then, is perfect righteousness, to hear nothing, to know nothing, to do nothing of the law of works; but only to know and believe that Jesus Christ is now gone to the Father, and sitteth at his right hand, not as a judge, but is made unto you of God, wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption." (132)
-Surely, if Christ came into the world to seek, and call, and save sinners, and to justify the ungodly, as you have heard; and if the more sinful, miserable, and distressed a man judge himself to be, the more willing Christ is to receive him and relieve him; then I see no reason why the vilest sinner should be discouraged from believing on the name of Jesus Christ by reason of his sins. Nay, let me say more; the greater any man's sins are, either in number or nature, the more haste he should make to come unto Christ, and to say with David, 'For thy name's sake, O Lord, pardon mine iniquity, for it is great!' (Ps 25:11)." (150)
Though the content is great, the edition leaves a lot to be desired. Boston's notes are decent, but can be dull and even distracting at times. Even worse, the modern editors have done an exceptionally poor job of organizing the volume. Though it is fairly easy to read in terms of typeset and font size, the transitions between the text and Boston's notes are awkward and disrupt the flow of the reading. Even more, the modern editor failed to provide additional notes where they would have been useful (explaining obscure words and references, suggesting further reading, etc).
Highly recommended for all Christians who have the ability/desire to read one of the best Puritan works.
-"God will have none to have a hand in the justification and salvation of a sinner, but Christ only. And to say as the thing is... Christ Jesus will either be a whole Saviour, or no Saviour; he will either save you alone, or not save you at all." (112)
-"All the covenant that believers ar eto have regard to, for life and salvation, is the free and gracious covenant that is betwixt Christ (or God in Christ) and them. And in this covenant there is not any condition or law to be performed on man's part, by himself; no there is no more for him to do, but only to know and believe that Christ hath done all for him... I beseech you to be persuaded that here you are to work nothing, here you are to do nothing, here you are to render nothing unto God, but only to receive the treasure, which is Jesus Christ, and apprehend him in your heart by faith, although you be never so great a sinner, and so shall you obtain forgiveness of sins, righteousness, and eternal happiness; not as an agent but as a patient, not by doing, but by receiving. Nothing here comes betwixt but faith only, apprehending Christ in the promise. This, then, is perfect righteousness, to hear nothing, to know nothing, to do nothing of the law of works; but only to know and believe that Jesus Christ is now gone to the Father, and sitteth at his right hand, not as a judge, but is made unto you of God, wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption." (132)
-Surely, if Christ came into the world to seek, and call, and save sinners, and to justify the ungodly, as you have heard; and if the more sinful, miserable, and distressed a man judge himself to be, the more willing Christ is to receive him and relieve him; then I see no reason why the vilest sinner should be discouraged from believing on the name of Jesus Christ by reason of his sins. Nay, let me say more; the greater any man's sins are, either in number or nature, the more haste he should make to come unto Christ, and to say with David, 'For thy name's sake, O Lord, pardon mine iniquity, for it is great!' (Ps 25:11)." (150)
January 19, 2016
A must read on the distinction between the law and the Gospel and the role of the law of God in a believers life. Although I disagree with some of the assumptions of the federal theology presented in the book it is a useful balanced response to two errors that are two sides of the same coin due to misinterpreting the relationship between the law and Gospel: neonomianims & antinomianism. These heresies are still prevalent today under different guises such as the federal vision, new perspective on paul, and "free grace" easy believism. Both Edward Fischer and Thomas Boston drive you to rest in the perfect work of Christ rather than dependency upon you own good works for justification, assurance of salvation, and for understanding sanctification as well.
May 2, 2020
This book is absolutely marvelous. It’s a wonderful look at the Law and the Gospel set in a dialogue. There also is a great teaching on the tend commandment that after I read it I realized what an absolute wretch I am, and that His grace and mercy on me is limitless! This book helped me see our savior clearer and more in depth. I probably will re read it another time after this. I dont get any kickbacks for saying this but please read/buy this book.
June 7, 2013
Classic, excellent, awesome.
Read
January 6, 2015A Must Read for Every Christian!
A Bunyan like discussion of the nature of grace and the law, essential issues for all. Enjoyable, challenging and helpful!
A Bunyan like discussion of the nature of grace and the law, essential issues for all. Enjoyable, challenging and helpful!
Read
May 5, 2023“Evangelista: The reason why the Lord did not create (Adam) immutable, was because he would be obeyed out of judgment and free choice, and not by fatal necessity and absolute determination;…”, p. 31
March 4, 2023
Such a helpful, beautiful, pastoral book. Thomas Boston's notes make it even more so.
I think I'm becoming one of those guys that continually talk about the law/gospel distinction. When you read a book like this, that gently takes you step-by-step through scripture, showing you the errors resulting from the confusion of this distinction and demonstrating to you again the sweetness of the gospel, you realize how many new errors and confusions are a result of forgetting these lessons.
In my own life, it illuminated many lingering issues dealing with sanctification and the mechanism for our growth in holiness. It is, this book preaches over and over again, all of faith, all of believing, all of Christ, until we rest as children of God and declare that the Law of the Lord is sweeter than honey.
Note for any potential readers: get the Christian Heritage/Christian Focus Publication edition. Their organization of Boston's notes and the wide margins make this a much easier read. It's worth the money.
I think I'm becoming one of those guys that continually talk about the law/gospel distinction. When you read a book like this, that gently takes you step-by-step through scripture, showing you the errors resulting from the confusion of this distinction and demonstrating to you again the sweetness of the gospel, you realize how many new errors and confusions are a result of forgetting these lessons.
In my own life, it illuminated many lingering issues dealing with sanctification and the mechanism for our growth in holiness. It is, this book preaches over and over again, all of faith, all of believing, all of Christ, until we rest as children of God and declare that the Law of the Lord is sweeter than honey.
Note for any potential readers: get the Christian Heritage/Christian Focus Publication edition. Their organization of Boston's notes and the wide margins make this a much easier read. It's worth the money.
September 17, 2021
A wonderful (but long) read that is helpful in distinguishing how an unbeliever relates to the law vs how a believer relates to the law in Christ. It also expounds upon the assurance of faith, the free offer of the Gospel to all, and how the Mosaic Covenant fits within the Covenant of Works//Covenant of Grace framework.
This book was Marrow for my soul and a delight to read not only for my spiritual edification but also because it is part of my denominational heritage - Associate Reformed Presbyterian - as the Marrow men left the Church of Scotland and formed the Associate Presbytery in 1733.
Every believer should read this book and I plan on teaching through it for the benefit of my congregation.
This book was Marrow for my soul and a delight to read not only for my spiritual edification but also because it is part of my denominational heritage - Associate Reformed Presbyterian - as the Marrow men left the Church of Scotland and formed the Associate Presbytery in 1733.
Every believer should read this book and I plan on teaching through it for the benefit of my congregation.
June 27, 2024
To read this book only once would seem wasteful. The Marrow possesses a wealth of knowledge and Fisher’s writing is pleasant enough that it would make for a sound annual practice and would indeed prove useful every time.
However, I would advise any who are to read this book to first read Fisher’s narrative by itself, and after Boston’s notes. Boston, though helpful, has a tendency to write at length about issues which Fisher will, just after the note, address himself. Additionally, I find Boston’s writing more professorial and tending to interrupt the narrative.
Tangentially, the index, written by John Brown of Haddington, has a section on assurance that was personally edifying and I believe many others would find also.
However, I would advise any who are to read this book to first read Fisher’s narrative by itself, and after Boston’s notes. Boston, though helpful, has a tendency to write at length about issues which Fisher will, just after the note, address himself. Additionally, I find Boston’s writing more professorial and tending to interrupt the narrative.
Tangentially, the index, written by John Brown of Haddington, has a section on assurance that was personally edifying and I believe many others would find also.
August 2, 2018
The Marrow of Modern Divinity is a must read for every believer. I did not realize how significant the covenant of grace and the covenant of works is to our understanding of the Christian and his relation to grace and the law until reading this book. It’s really from understanding those two things that can help the doubting believer find assurance and help the doubting unbeliever find rest in Christ alone for salvation. It can straighten out so much of our confusion between the doctrine of justification and the works of the law. That’s why this book is imperative to read for our own souls and instructing others in the way of salvation.
March 15, 2018
This book may be my favorite book, besides the Bible itself. It is a wonderful explanation of the gospel, the free offer of that gospel, and of the issues of legalism and antinomianism. This edition also contains an explanation of the ten commandments. The whole of the book was convicting in numerous way, encouraging, hopeful, truthful, and beneficial. I hope that any serious theologian will read it, along with Boston's comments, and be blessed by it!
March 25, 2019
This book is a must read for a biblical understanding of God's law and the dual purpose it serves for unbelievers and believers. Legalism and Antinomianism are dealt with and both revealed to stem from a wrong view of the law. The book is a series of conversations between a new convert, a legalist, an Antinomian, and a pastor.
December 6, 2025
One of the best books I have read this year. Fisher deals masterfully with covenantal theology, assurance of salvation, and many other topics. The practical applications are rich. For instance, believers are not under the covenant of works, but rather under the covenant of grace; hence, we cannot be condemned as though under the former covenant. Glorious truths.
March 21, 2017
This is probably a better book than the rating I gave. The language in it is old enough to give me difficulty in following the flow of the book, and frankly it bored me. I suspect that is my problem and that "Marrow" is a book well worth digging into if you are interested in the difference between law and gospel, and legalism and antinomianism. I chose to read it because I recently read The Whole Christ by Sinclair Ferguson, which is a history of the controversy caused by this book. Ferguson's book was excellent and inspired me to read this book.
February 8, 2019
Very useful for understanding historical theology worked out in a pastoral register. At the same time it adds weight in my mind as to why the covenant of works/covenant of grace scheme is not the best way to understand the biblical gospel.
March 20, 2021
I found reading "The Marrow of Modern Divinity" on a Kindle tedious, and finally gave up. It wasn't the content, rather reading and absorbing the extensive notes by Thomas Boston with the Kindle format. I bought another edition and plan to read a printed version. The discussion inside "The Marrow of Modern Divinity" is too important to be distracted by the format.
December 28, 2023
De stijl moet je aanspreken, maar het is mooi om te zien hoe Fisher de onvoorwaardelijkheid van het evangelie verdedigt, en tegelijk staande houdt dat het evangelie ons misplaatste zelfvertrouwen afsnijdt en ons transformeert.
November 10, 2017
A must read for every Christian, and especially for pastors!
December 19, 2018
Outside of the apostles, this is the best book on the relationship between grace and law that I have ever read. It's written as a dialogue in 17th-century prose, which makes for a mental workout, but the treasures within will amply reward the effort expended to dig them out.
September 8, 2020
Every single preacher of the Christian gospel should work through this gem. It is like a primer for understanding the crucial distinctions between law and gospel in the Bible. Vital!
September 28, 2022
Great book but would advise (though many say differently) that you ignore Boston's marginalia.
February 27, 2023
Extremely Convicting conversation regarding the covenant of works and grace, and understanding where our only salvation comes from.
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