The Christian Life: A Doctrinal Introduction

by Sinclair B. Ferguson, J.I. Packer (Preface by)

From Amazon: Christian doctrine matters for Christian living. This is 'one of the most important growth points of the Christian life', writes Sinclair B. Ferguson. From this starting point, The Christian Life expounds such key biblical themes as grace, faith, repentance, new birth and assurance with clarity and contagious enthusiasm. 'Christian doctrines are life-shaping', explains the author, because 'they show us the God we worship'.

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

240 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1981

About the author

Sinclair B. Ferguson is Associate Preacher at St Peter's Free Church in Dundee and also Distinguished Visiting Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was Senior Minister of First Presbyterian Church of Columbia, South Carolina and prior to that, he was minister of St. George's-Tron Church in Glasgow.

Reviews

[Alisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The front page of this book says that this reading is a doctrinal introduction which indeed it is. It covers a multitude of subjects that are of utmost important for the Christian life. Starting with the first few chapters it might seem like a hard to digest reading, however it gets better with each chapter. The old basic truths of the Gospel are presented in a very profound manner giving a thorough overview. Knowing these theoretical aspects of the gospel is the starting point for living a practical Christian live. It encourages the heart to rest in the deep truths that the Word of God provides. These doctrines are meant to mold us so that our lives begin to look more and more like that of Christ. Reading this book will help even long practicing Christians to verify their roots and fine-tune their beliefs, which in turn will assure believers of our rightful place as children of God.

[Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read. Ferguson takes the reader through the doctrinal heart of the Christian life. Anyone who believes that doctrine lacks life and passion has not read Sinclair Ferguson. This is a book for all Christians to read and savor.

[Felipe Sabino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Muito bom!

[Cale Fauver · Rating 5 out of 5]

No surprise that Fergie can write something geared for Christianity 101 that has great depths of doctrine.

[Ashley Bacon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read. A very approachable book on important doctrines. I was encouraged, reminded of many beautiful truths, and learned a lot!

[Sheri Ingersoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book because I have Sinclair Ferguson's follow-up book, Maturity: Growing Up and Going On in the Christian Life. I thought I should read the first book, anticipating that it would just be run-of-the-mill basic doctrine. Well, I was pleasantly surprised to see that he brought even more clarity to some basic doctrines that I already thought I understood! This was an excellent read. Highly recommended whether you're a new believer, or a more mature believer. I'm looking forward to the second book!

[Alexandru Croitor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heart-warming, intellectually-engaging doctrinal introduction to the Christian Life; I loved how the whole "doctrine leads to doxology" bore its fruit in each chapter of this book. Every doctrinal stance (scripturally exposited and illustrated) made a clear point:
Doxology is the goal of theology!

"Praise, my soul, the King of Heaven;
To His feet thy tribute bring.
Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,
Who like thee His praise should sing
Praise Him ! Praise Him!
Praise the everlasting King."

[Miles Lapointe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really wish I hadn’t read this as a school book and hope I revisit it someday - I had to rush to finish this for an assignment but I did really enjoy the way Sinclair Ferguson writes. He’s good would recommend

[Lucas Cardoso · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing primer on the Christian life. Wish I read this earlier in life.

“From beginning to end the Christian life is Christ-centered and we are constantly to look to him for all the spiritual provision we need. All spiritual blessings are in Him, and it is only as we ourselves, in this Pauline sense, are “in Christ” that we will find the blessings which are ours in Christ becoming realities in our own experience.”

[Hannah Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genuinely such a good book, took me a while to get through it but so much to be learned from it, would recommend to every believer.

[Keller (Charles Hack) Hackbusch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read for the Christian. Excellent.

[Brian Pate · Rating 5 out of 5]

A primer on soteriology. Ferguson provides an excellent summary of calling, justification, and glorification -- all centered in our union with Christ.

[Michael Philliber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read this volume in 1997 while in Seminary. Recently, my wife and I read it together as part of our family devotions and found it beneficial. Sinclair Ferguson, Chancellor's Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, and an assistant minister at St. Peter's Free Church of Scotland, Dundee, penned this manuscript in 1981 and it has gone the distance, outrunning many more popularly written pieces. "The Christian Life" truly is a 228-page doctrinal introduction, written in a style that is straightforward and spry.

The author covers foundational biblical doctrines in a tidy and tender manner. Young believers and and seasoned disciples will gain immensely from the subjects addressed, and the way each is graciously handled. Ferguson doesn't simply proof-text his subjects, but often spends time developing a full biblical passage, showing how a particular doctrine flows beautifully from a text in its context. Readers will be aided, inspired, roused and reassured as they follow the author's amiable presentation. They will similarly be challenged in their faith as they come across little gems like this: "The great temptation most of us face is to believe that very little has happened to us through grace" (104).

"The Christian Life" needs to be dog-eared, marked up, read, reread, prayed over and ponder on. This is a volume that should find a home in every Christian's hand, whether they're seminarians, pastors, elder, deacons, women's ministry leaders, Bible teachers, parents, or singles. I highly recommend the book, and so does my wife.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This overview of the Christian life in terms of its key components as expounded in biblical doctrine is one of the most deeply scriptural, Christ exalting, and personally edifying books a young Christian - really, ANY Christian! - could read. Ferguson covers the full scope of a believer's saving relationship with God in simple language with incisive biblical explanation and warm pastoral application. In reading this book of just over 200 pages, I felt that there were no wasted words - no fluff in this book - just good solid food. Reading it was like eating an exquisite steak dinner with all the trimmings at a high class restaurant - I simply wanted to savor every bite and enjoy the whole meal! I hope this is persuasive enough to get you to buy and read this book. After reading it, purchase five or ten more and give them away to others - this is really a very good book that deserves much wider distribution.

[Matt Kottman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great introduction into basic Christian theology. As Christians we live out our lives through doctrine. It isn't always something we look at, but it is something we live, and so gaining a solid understanding of the Christian faith affects the way we live.

[Stephen Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Christian Life is a book I come back too often. It is a rich blend of doctrine and application to those who are in Christ Jesus by faith. Ferguson is one of my favorites, and this carefully written book is a huge help for the Christian.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

A surprisingly digestible, practical theological guide to the Christian walk. Thoroughly enjoyed the read!

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall this was a really solid book on biblical doctrine. Most major areas are covered and done so with a clarity that is difficult to obtain in these types of work. Complex biblical analysis is concise and practical. There is a balance between summarizing concepts and analyzing scripture. This would be a great reference work or helpful for someone wanting to learn about a key doctrine without having to read something too heady. My only issue was there could have been better references. There is a helpful index and scripture reference.

"how we think is one of the great determining factors in how we live"

"The message is that the knowledge of God and the sure understanding of his character and ways provide the basis for all practical Christian living"

"The doctrines of the gospel are meant to mold us so that our lives begin to "set" in the likeness of Christ"

"We will never properly understand the work of God which takes place in the Christian life unless we first of all have some kind of grasp of why we need the grace of God."

"It is the glory of the gospel that it meets our need."

"He puts into effect an intricate design which will be made clear only when the finished garment is held up to the admiring onlookers...It is because God's ultimate purpose is to make us like Christ."

"We know that two people can listen to the same evangelistic sermon and one will hear the voice of Christ calling him to faith while the other hears only the words of the preacher. Again, we do not know why this happens. We are at a loss to fathom the difference between a general call and this powerful, effectual call. We only know that the difference is real."

"But he who calls them creates in them the ability to respond so that in the very act of his calling he brings them into new life."

[J.K. Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating - Must Read

Level - Quick, easy read

Summary
The subtitle of this book is really illustrative of what this book is about. It is an introduction to doctrine for Christians, more specifically reformed theology. This is probably the best intro book I've ever read. You won't get the full intro that you'd need to tackle Systematic Theology, there is no doctrine of church, sacrament, eschatology, etc., but his chapters on man, sin, grace, election/adoption, justification, and christian living are possibly unmatched in their accessibility to the average Christian.

I'd highly recommend this book for anyone looking to understand more about doctrine, to go above a Sunday School level, and it may even work as a gateway book into deeper study of theology. Ferguson was a theologian and professor, but this book is written by a pastor first and foremost and can easily be read by any Christian at any level of education and knowledge.

My Thoughts
If I've somehow been unclear, I'm really high on this book. Clocking in under 200 pages but with 18 chapters, anyone can hope in and out of the different doctrinal chapters with ease. As I mentioned above, this is a great intro for anyone looking to expand their knowledge. It is also a great reminder to pastor and theologians of the basics of doctrine. A way to bring those who greater knowledge back down to a simpler level, a more concise study of what others need to know.

This is written almost as a series of sermons and could be a great book for a Bible study or community group looking for something to read. For pastors and elders in the church, this should be the go to suggested reading for anyone inquiring about doctrine. Overall, it is a must read for every Christian.

More reviews - https://MondayMorningTheologian.com/

[Christopher Humphrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What does it mean to be "In Christ"? How do I get there? How do I stay there? What are the basic elements of Salvation below which I may not consider myself a child of God? In "The Christian Life: A Doctrinal Introduction" Sinclair Ferguson answers these questions and many more. In formal terms, this is a book about Soteriology (i.e., the Doctrine of Salvation). In practical terms this is an organized compilation of the concepts of the only way--God's way--to enter the Christian life as a child of God.

Although the topics contained in this slender volume are weighty, this is written on a popular level and, therefore, should be accessible to all who choose to read it. Ferguson writes clearly and pastorally in this book, and even though this is an "introduction" to the Christian life this book is appropriate for new Christians and long-time followers of Christ alike. Indeed, this book reminded me of the great salvation that is mine in Christ, provide by grace alone, through faith alone in Christ alone, to the glory of God alone. In short, this book caused me to worship the Author and Finisher of my faith, the Lord Jesus Christ.

This would be an excellent book for a small group. Ferguson has written an excellent book and I heartily commend it to you. Happy reading!

[Ben Cooper · Rating 3 out of 5]

As far as it does, this is a workable and mostly readable summary of a number of key categories in systematic doctrine, not unlike many others. The good things outweigh the less good. Loads of heartening truths. But don't expect a page-turner. It's written in standard 'Reformedese'. That is, everything, especially each heading, is part of some enormous long list. Great for those who like lists, a bit dull for the rest of us. The text is fragmented by long quotations from other authors or passages of Scripture. The language is quite 'musty'. That is, rather too many sentences beginning 'We must...' And anyone hoping that is is about the Christian life in any meaningful or personal way will be disappointed, whatever the title may claim. It's 'applied' in only the broadest, vaguest sense, with very little connected to actual life experience. That said, it does pick up about half way though. The chapters on Union with Christ, The Christian's Conflicts, and Crucifying Sin are especially good.

[Pat Phelps · Rating 5 out of 5]

“This is the unaltered emphasis of the New Testaments teaching on the last dramatic events of our salvation. If these things will take place then, they posses life-transforming relevance now. No man can believe he has such a glorious destiny when he will be changed into the perfect likeness of Christ, without living a life that is already changed by that prospect. Like all these other doctrines, the biblical teaching on glorification has a practical goal. It encourages and challenges us to live the Christian life.” - Sinclair Ferguson

This is quoted from the last paragraph of “The Christian Life”, written by Sinclair Ferguson. This book was so good, that I don’t really know where to start. It is a mini Systematic Theology, yet tons of practical advice on how to truly grow in your walk with Christ.

Get this book immediately. Don’t read it as technical Systematic. Instead, read it as a daily devotion to be read slowly and meditated on deeply. This book will definitely bless you.

“Take up and Read” - Saint Augustine

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book thinking it would be similar to JCRyle’s masterful “Practical Religion”. I must have missed the print at the bottom, “ a doctrinal introduction “! In outstanding Sinclair Ferguson style he lays down the basics of Christian theological truth that must be the foundation of our Christianity and in clear and concise form with clear Biblical defense he leads the reader through the foundational ( basic) truths of our broken relation with God , the effectual calling of the lost one by God, conviction of sin ( for me was a blessed read) repentance, union with Christ and many other precious truths to the last chapter of glorification.it was food for my soul to rehearse the doctrines of election , regeneration, grace, faith, etc that are the foundational stones that I embraced years ago and sometimes am guilty of not appreciating all that God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit has done for me.Dr. Ferguson has a way of making these rich truths even more precious and plow up my soul . A book that should be reread often.

[Judith Koene Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is incredibly helpful for all Christians, whether new on the Christian walk or a mature Christian. Ferguson clearly explains essential doctrines to the Christian life. He is very clear, concise, Biblical, thorough, not too wordy but wordy enough. It is helpful for the young Christian to understand these important doctrines; it is helpful for the older Christian to remember these important doctrines; it is helpful for the theology student to remember how to clearly and simply explain these essential doctrines to others. After reading the book I was left feeling joy, excitement, anticipation, peace, desire to live for God, thankfulness for salvation. I strongly recommend this book to all Christians.

[Luke Folse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant introduction (or reminder) of the components of the life centered on following Jesus. There is real joy and real sorrow evident in Ferguson's writing from his personal and pastoral experiences. "Union with Christ" was perhaps the most powerful section for me: "For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his."

One minor issue I had was the style– I often needed to reread sentences several times to make sense of the argument. Some more commas might help! But that stuff pales in comparison to the rich, Scripture-soaked analyses of the Christian life.

[Coicoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

My score is above a 4, but not quite a 5.
This is a solid book on the nuts and bolts of the Christian life, hence the cover.

There's somewhat of a Calvinistic approach to certain themes and topics, but the emphasis is on the scriptures, with a special focus on the epistles of Paul.

Overall, this was quite helpful to me, and I would say that I am still working through the certain tensions that repentance, conviction, justification, and sanctification imply. I'd definitely recommend it to most believers, and especially to pastors and teachers in the church. The style might not appeal to every average churchgoer, but the content generally should be presented and taught to believers.

[Matt Crawford · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this short little volume, Sinclair Ferguson is hoping to wet your appetite. These 18 little chapters, most around 10 pages just hit the very foundation of the gospel. He uses the example of a three luggage stool. Doctrine is but one of the legs Showing that it would collapse if not for it. So while much of it is on what is the gospel and what is the golden chain. The whole point is to get people to understand the foundation. If you have a friend who is a new believer and wants to know what the Christian life is all about this is an excellent starter. But I would not look for the deep theology that Professor Ferguson usually brings.That was never its intention.

[Matt Pelto · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Christian Life, while not a full systematic theology, is a doctrinal exposition of, well, the Christian life. Ferguson, in a wonderfully pastoral way explains the doctrines ranging from the sinfulness of man, to justification, to union with Christ, to our glorification. As should be the case when dealing with the thing of God, Ferguson writes in a way that will lead to worship and a deeper love of God. I would recommend this book both to new Christians and to ones who have been in Christ for years.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

ESSENTIAL. I came from a Pentecostal background, I’m new to the whole reformed stuff and I’ve been going through this book chapter by chapter with my Pastor and it’s helped massively. There’s a lot of unlearning coming from a Pentecostal background so this did a great job in answering some questions I had. One of my Favourite chapters was “union with Christ” — one of the most relateable quotes for me is found there. “The knowledge of our union with Christ provides us with great dignity. As I look at myself I see failure, sin, sometimes shame, and disgrace. But that is neither the ultimate nor the whole truth about me as a Christian. No! I am United to Christ, a joint heir of his riches, a child of God. Knowing this to be real truth about me lends grace and power to my life”— this quote really helped me out in this particularly difficult stage of unlearning. Grateful for this book, more understanding and my pastor for answering all the questions I had along the way. Highly recommend.

[Kim Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful, helpful book on important doctrines of the Christian faith. Ferguson tackles the doctrine of predestination to the doctrine of glorification with depth and wisdom. A beloved characteristic of Ferguson’s writing is his use of hymns in almost every chapter, revealing these rich biblical truths in the songs of the church. Read this book slowly and absorb as much as possible as you go, for it will enrich your life and help you see God’s providential hand in all aspects of your earthly life.