The Duty of Self-Denial

by Thomas Watson

Self-denial runs against the grain of our indulgent Western culture. “Self-denial lodges but in a few breasts. It is a sacred, exotic herb which has grown very scarce.” Modern misconception tends to relegate self-denial to an ancient world of monasteries, hair shirts, and self-flagellation. However, as Watson shows, there is nothing more Biblical or Christian than true self-denial. “Self-denial is the first principle of Christianity. It is the life-blood which must run through the whole body of religion.” Christ calls us to deny our wills, our own righteousness, our appetites, our ease, our inordinate passions, our relations, our estates, and even our lives for Him. There is no alternative to a life of self-denial: “There may be going to heaven without comfort, but there is no going there without self-denial.”

Genres: Theology, Christian Living

205 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 1997

About the author

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

Thomas Watson (c. 1620 - 1686) was an English, non-conformist, Puritan preacher and author. He was educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, where he was noted for remarkably intense study. In 1646 he commenced a sixteen year pastorate at St. Stephen's, Walbrook. He showed strong Presbyterian views during the civil war, with, however, an attachment to the king, and in 1651 he was imprisoned briefly with some other ministers for his share in Christopher Love's plot to recall Charles II of England. He was released on 30 June 1652, and was formally reinstated as vicar of St. Stephen's Walbrook. He obtained great fame and popularity as a preacher until the Restoration, when he was ejected for nonconformity. Not withstanding the rigor of the acts against dissenters, Watson continued to exercise his ministry privately as he found opportunity. Upon the Declaration of Indulgence in 1672 he obtained a license to preach at the great hall in Crosby House. After preaching there for several years, his health gave way, and he retired to Barnston, Essex, where he died suddenly while praying in secret. He was buried on 28 July 1686.

(Information from wikipedia.org)

Reviews

[Dane Jöhannsson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first part of this volume is Watson's sermon on self-denial followed by 10 sermons on similar themes. Watson is likely the most immediately practical and experiential puritan author.

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Puritan writings typically fall into two camps, lots of depth, ala John Owen, or straight to the point, ala Thomas Watson here. What this book may lack in depth, it makes up for by going straight to the heart and soul with challenging, encouraging, and gracious exhortation to deny self and serve Christ. Oh how many ways Watson points out how selfish I am. I could have stopped at the first one and spend the rest of my days repenting, yet he keeps piling on more. Thankfully the Holy Spirit grants grace and strength to repent and obey.

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the reasons to love Watson are here. Close reading and application of scripture, vivid illustrations of both along the way. The titular sermon is excellent, but the sermon on the day of judgment was the most impactful as I read it.

[Leila McGrath · Rating 5 out of 5]

1675. Outstanding. So little of this today.

[Matthew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful reflections by a deeply thoughtful preacher.