The Continuity of Religion

by Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet

This history of the true religion, written some three hundred years ago by the "Eagle of Meaux," Bishop Jaques Bossuet, is a study of the Old and New Testaments in the light of the continuity of God's interactive and faithful presence in the salvific affairs of His people. There is no book which better explains the meaning behind the types and figures of so many seemingly enigmatic commandments given to the patriarchs and prophets of old by the Lord God. No book better illustrates God's particular and permissive providence in the rise and fall of nations and empires demonstrating, too, how those powers willfully estranged from the true religion cannot act outside of the Creator's universal economy of salvation. Bossuet's genius for teaching and lucidity of style merge beautifully in this unequaled masterpiece of pious erudition. As you read this book you will understand how it is that nothing of the ancient covenant was left unfulfilled in Christ and/or in the Church, His extended body. This is scriptural theology for clergy, religious, or laity. It is the complete story, this side of heaven, of man's fall and his consequent restoration in Christ through the Church. Another chapter of this continuity of religion yet remains to be completed -- an everlasting one, the Author of which is the Word of God -- we pray we may all read the final chapter in heaven.

Genres: Religion, Theology, History, Catholic

206 pages, Hardcover

First published August 26, 2000

About the author

Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet (September 27, 1627 – April 12, 1704) was a French bishop and theologian, renowned for his sermons and other addresses. He has been considered by many to be one of the most brilliant orators of all time and a masterly French stylist.

Court preacher to Louis XIV of France, Bossuet was a strong advocate of political absolutism and the divine right of kings. He argued that government was divine and that kings received their power from God. He was also an important courtier and politician.

The works best known to English speakers are three great orations delivered at the funerals of Queen Henrietta Maria, widow of Charles I of England (1669), her daughter, Henriette, Duchess of Orléans (1670), and the outstanding soldier le Grand Condé (1687).

Reviews

[J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book combines both simplicity in writing but profundity in thought as it gathers together the history of True Religion, the Perennial and Divinely Revealed Tradition. I think it is a good book surveying everything from Genesis to Abraham; Abraham to Moses; Moses to the Babylonian Captivity; the Captivity to the coming of the Savior; The Coming of the Savior and the establishment of His Church to Present Day (Even though the present did end in 1600's since that was the time of the author). Of course along the way skillfully argues how it is the Catholic Church in Rome that is the Headquarters of True Religion. It would make a good introduction to religious history.