Aging in Grace: Letters to Those in the Autumn of Life

by Archibald Alexander

Archibald Alexander (1772-1851), Presbyterian minister and educator, was a professor at Princeton Theological Seminary from 1812 until his death. Written while Alexander was in his seventies, the five letters in this booklet candidly acknowledge the trials of aging, while at the same time offering biblical encouragement and hope for the Christian facing death. Alexander considers the "autumn of life" from the perspective of its struggles, its besetting sins, its duties, its unstoppable journey toward death, and the assurance the believer in Jesus Christ can have as death approaches. Everyone, and especially those past mid-life, will profit from Alexander's wise counsel.

Genres: Christian Living

41 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 17, 2018

About the author

Archibald Alexander (April 17, 1772 – October 22, 1851) was an American Presbyterian theologian and professor at the Princeton Theological Seminary. He served for 9 years as the President of Hampden–Sydney College in Virginia and for 39 years as Princeton Theological Seminary's first professor from 1812 to 1851.

Reviews

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent gospel-centered wisdom for those in the autumn of life. Archibald Alexander, the first President of Princeton Seminary, wrote these five letters when he himself was in the last years of his life. Highly recommended for pastors ministering to older saints, and to those who are in or preparing for their older years.

[Jlnpeacock Peacock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Alexander brings a wealth of understanding to the challenges facing those who have lived to see 'old age.' I have not read anyone who articulates so specifically what it is to experience the deterioration of the body, or living in constant pain, or the frustration of lessening of physical strength and endurance. There is also the feelings of depression and feeling of no longer being of use. Mr. Alexander offers Biblical counsel in dealing with the various issues, even providing a chapter on facing death and a prayer for those whose time is at hand. The short booklet should be of comfort to those in the autumn of their life as well as being an aid to those ministering to the elderly.

[Horace · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short book, a booklet really, written by the renowned 19th century pastor and Princeton Seminary professor, Archibald Alexander. Its purpose is to provide wise, Scripture-based counsel for seniors. He deals with the negative realities of aging as well as the opportunities that come with this stage of life. He concludes with a chapter about death. I plan to place this booklet in a place where I’ll be reminded to revisit it from time to time to give it the time and consideration it deserves.

[Carol Blakeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful advice

Even though this was written many years ago, the problems of growing old and facing death just don't change. We must prepare ourselves, and this book gives sage advice and counsel. It is a quick read, but worth reading many times.

[Gabe Mira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meditate much on death before it comes. Convicting and insightful and short read for young and old.