Dying Thoughts

by Richard Baxter

More well known for his Reformed Pastor, Richard Baxter was the outstanding pastor of Kidderminster. Dying Thoughts is his exposition of Paul’s words in Philippians 1:23: ‘For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is far better.’ • Easy to Benjamin Fawcett who made this abridged version of the original work wrote, ‘The Dying Thoughts of Mr. Baxter chiefly present to our view what every Christian may attain, and what it is the highest interest, as well as the indispensable duty of every Christian to aspire after.’ • A sincere In this little book, we see Baxter wrestling with his own doubts and fears as he faces eternity, jealously examining his own heart, anxious to test his own sincerity, taking nothing for granted. Baxter wanted to die with every grace in his soul in full vigour. A man of life passions as ourselves, his Dying Thoughts provides much needed counsel, strength, and comfort because it deals with the same conflicts, complaints and desires which fill our own hearts.

Genres: Theology, Christian, Christianity

144 pages, Paperback

Published November 9, 2021

About the author

Richard Baxter (1615-1691) was an English Puritan church leader, poet, hymn-writer, theologian, and controversialist. Dean Stanley called him "the chief of English Protestant Schoolmen". After some false starts, he made his reputation by his ministry at Kidderminster, and at around the same time began a long and prolific career as theological writer. After the Restoration he refused preferment, while retaining a non-separatist presbyterian approach, and became one of the most influential leaders of the nonconformists, spending time in prison.

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

Reviews

[Janet · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this book because it fulfilled the category in my book challenge for this year. It is slow to be sure in the beginning. However, after the wading through parts there is certainly treasure to be found. So.. not my favorite book.. maybe not even a reread.. but I will reread and consider some things I took notes on. Category fulfilled and I read a book I most likely would not have considered reading.

[Adriel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like someone else said "It is slow to be sure in the beginning. However, after the wading through parts there is certainly treasure to be found."

Treasure is to be found in there. And a callback to the reality of this world and our lives.

Though the reader should be cautious about Baxter's understanding of soteriology, justification and grace which is not reformed. But it does not appear that much in this book which is more devotional in nature.

[Paul Drawdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Baxter is a Puritan and his writing and Theology are spot on. If you wonder what it should be like for a Christian to die, this helps. We all say we want to go to heaven, but few are ready to die. Baxter points out why he is more than ready and based on his doctrine of God.

[Charles Sager · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very dense and needs to be updated for modern readers.