The Path of True Godliness - Classics of Reformed Spirituality

by Willem Teellinck

In nine short books, this remarkable work by Teellinck shows believers the character of true godliness and the kingdom of darkness that opposes it. Dr. Joel R. Beeke, editor of the book, has included an introduction that chronicles Teellinck's life and times. This is one of the best books ever written on the subject of sanctification. How does one flee from temptation? What is the best way for believers to open their hearts to God? Packed with scriptural guidance, this book answers these questions and many more about how to live godly in Christ Jesus. Table of
Book 1: The Character of True Godliness
Book 2: The Kingdom of Darkness Opposes the Practice of Godliness
Book 3: The Kingdom of Grace Promotes Godliness
Book 4: Godly Living Is the True Goal of Life
Book 5: The Means to Attain the True Purpose of Life
Book 6: Using God-Given Means to Practice True Godliness
Book 7: Motives to Practice Godliness Derived from God's Attributes
Book 8: Motives to Practice Godliness Derived from Our Own Condition
Book 9: Three More Reasons for Practicing Godliness

Genres: Theology, Christian, Christian Living

303 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2003

Reviews

[Ezekiel McMurtry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some parts were very practical and applicable, other parts were incredibly repetitive.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great treatise on practical godliness. I wish that I could exemplify even a tenth of what he says in my own life.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

Much practical wisdom lies herein! This book is filled with so many persuasive encouragements to godliness.

You will notice, throughout this book, that Teellinck threatens Christians, who do not practice true godliness, with hell, and promises those who do practice true godliness, with heaven. He isn't teaching a works-righteousness, but holds that true Christians will practice true godliness. Remember that most people went to church and considered themselves Christian at that time. See Joel Beeke's introduction for a fuller explanation of this.

[Jesse Green · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were definitely some helpful thoughts and it did at times encourage me toward greater personal holiness. It felt repetitive and at times you could just get away with reading the section headings.

[Jason Poquette · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would give this 3.5 stars. Teellinck has many good things to say. But his style takes some getting used to, and his insistence on 3 points, 3 ways, 3 things...becomes a bit tedious and artificial. But worth the read for sure.

[Nicholas Abraham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful and practical Further Reformation spirituality. The format may prove challenging for some and may also feel a bit too programmatic when trying to apply.

[B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willem Teellinck, the father of the Dutch Second Reformation, believed that "true spirituality is inseparable from an outward walk of life that flees all kinds of worldliness". The Path of True Godliness promotes the Puritan ideal of sanctification in all areas of life from a zealous desire for God's glory, not through legalism.

Like many Christians, I've asked the age-old question: 'What is my purpose in life?', and I read plenty of popular books to try and answer it, but to no avail. I was looking for an action plan, but what I needed was sound, biblical counsel. Willem Teellinck has the sound, biblical answer concisely stated in The Path of True Godliness (p.127): "Clearly, the glory of God is the most important purpose and goal of our life. We were created and re-created for that purpose (Isa. 43:7, 21). The only way we can accomplish this is by following God's counsel and his Word (Jer. 23:22)."

Mr. Teellinck outlines the character, goal, means, and motives of true godliness, but he also addresses the work of the Kingdom of Darkness that opposes the Christian along the way. This book offers timeless, practical guidance and is a must read for every Christian. I highly recommend it!

[Gary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Teelinck was a 'further-reformation Divine' in the Netherlands (very similar to an English Puritan). Their works are noted especially for practical piety. However, translations into English just don't seem to work; this book reads too flatly to stir and excite in the way the original likely did. Still the content is sound and practical and instructive.

Liked it.

[Alex]

To quote Arie de Reuver's work SWEET COMMUNION, Teellinck shows that a Christian can lead a "religious life" without needing "to crawl into a cloister with the superstitious papists". An edifying read.