The Poor Doubting Christian Drawn to Christ: Wherein the Main Hindrances Which Keep Men from Coming to Christ Are Discovered; With Special Helps to Recover God's Favour

by Thomas Hooker

Excerpt from The Poor Doubting Christian Drawn to Christ: Wherein the Main Hindrances Which Keep Men From Coming to Christ Are Discovered; With Special Helps to Recover God's Favour
Evasv minister, especially if a pastor, meets with Chris tians who suffer spiritual trials, of various forms and de grees of intensity. Bis solicitude as a conscientious and affectionate watchman for souls, is awaked for such; while he yet feels uncertain on the precise counsels to be given, for'their instruction and relief. A book therefore, which can be put into their hands, adapted to their necessities; which they can read repeatedly; by which they can ex amine their own hearts; over which they can pray; through the aid of which they can understand the causes of their sorrows, and find their way out of perplexity and darkness, into light and comfort, cannot fail to be esteemed of great worth. A book of such a character, it is believed, will be found in the present little volume. It will subserve the two-fold purpose of guarding Christians against the devices of their adversary; and preventing discomfort and mistakes relative to their spiritual state. The biographical sketch of the venerable author will apprize the reader how well qualified he was to deal with cases of spiritual per.
N at only the private Christian but the minister will find this little work worthy of frequent perusal. As the physi cian avails himself of the books of experienced and skillful practitioners: so the Christian minister feels it a privilege to avail himself of the results of the studies, experience and observation of his fathers and brethren, who have been wise and successful in their treatment of the cases of amictv ed and tender-spirited Christians.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living, Theology

173 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1652

Reviews

[Josh Stowers · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book with allegory that will make you underline for more miles than an average pen can handle. It seems like puritan writers were more illustrative, but also had longer trains of thought and that is true with this book. A good book on assurance that understands the value of faith as well as the horrid sin of not trusting that Christ can do what he said he would do ; seek and save that which is lost.

[Joshua Pearsall · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that will likely challenge you, but acts much like a balm for a wound. amAt first it might sting, but then the ointment takes hold and the relief overpowers and outlast the pain. Do you doing, or know someone who doubts, or preach to and care for those who doubt? This book may be the ointment you need

[Richard Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book easily ranks among my all-time favorites.

[Jasmine · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book is about the plots of Satan on the believer to guide them away from coming to Christ but it’s also and mainly our own depravity through sin and pride that impacts on our unwillingness to turn to Christ. Then the last few chapters deals with how to read, understand and hold onto the promises of God found in the Bible. By far the best part of this book.
Hooker is very frank, he holds nothing back and certainly does not beat around the bush. He has some GREAT points that really speak volumes. His principles of holding onto the promises of God, I will immediately put into practice and hold close to my heart. He doesn’t have the same pastoral tone as someone like a Spurgeon because he doesn’t deal delicately with sensitive matters.. but for the person who needs to hear the harsh truth in love, then this is the book I’d recommend to them.

[Gary · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were many nuggets of beauty and wisdom in this book but also lists of things to do to seemingly obtain assurance and peace in Christ. I can't say they are wrong, but they seemed to be more method than faith. Perhaps sanctification is more our work than I make it to be but I was left unsure. However, his final word on the sufficiency of faith bringing in all the other virtues was excellent.

[Mark Nenadov]

Some good stuff in here, the writing is good though perhaps tedious at times.