To Honour God: the spirituality of Oliver Cromwell

by Michael A.G. Haykin

The first title in our series "Classics of Reformed Spirituality." Editor Michael Haykin provides an introduction and brief study of Cromwell's spirituality through a consideration of his view of divine providence, conversion and activism. A chronology of the life of Cromwell is followed by 30 selections from his letters, speeches, sayings and prayers. These selections are footnoted with interesting historical detail and include biblical references.

Genres: History, Church History, Biography, Christian

Paperback

First published July 15, 1999

About the author

Dr. Michael A.G. Haykin is the Professor of Church History and Biblical Spirituality and Director of The Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

He is also the editor of Eusebeia: The Bulletin of The Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies. His present areas of research include 18th-century British Baptist life and thought, as well as Patristic Trinitarianism and Baptist piety.

Haykin is a prolific writer having authored numerous books, over 250 articles and over 150 book reviews. He is also an accomplished editor with numerous editorial credits.

Reviews

[Mike Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice little selection of Cromwell’s letters that span a variety of occasions. So many gems in his writings. I only wish the intro explained more of the political backdrop of his era.

[Marc Sims · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had to read this for a class, but probably wouldn't have finished it otherwise. Cromwell is a fascinating character, and in this book you get a real sense of his piety and vision for God to be utmost in everything he did for England. But there just wasn't anything particularly profound. There are lots of good Reformation/Puritan heroes to read that are much more beneficial.

[Brenden Wentworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was he perfect? Of course not
But alongside maybe King Alfred the Great, Oliver Cromwell was probably the closest thing to an actual Christian ruler the English speaking world ever saw

[Melody Bringe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great little book.

[Justine Olawsky · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book far more than I thought I would and came away with a deeper appreciation of Old Ollie.

Oliver Cromwell was an early proponent of freedom of conscience in religious belief. He was a fervent Puritan, but extended tolerance to all forms of Protestants—and also invited the Jewish people back into England after a long exile. Not so much to the Catholics, but he at least let them hear their Masses.

He had a robust way of expressing himself that makes these excerpts from his writing a pleasure to read.

[Nickolas Wingholt · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I read the Puritans, it makes me want to write letters. I may not endorse every jot and tittle of Cromwell's political career - there are more than a few disparities in what he believed and how he acted. Even to that end, Haykin's intro about presenting Cromwell "warts and everything" speaks an excellent word to the way he understood his own fallibility and cast himself before the mercy of God. And when it came to writing letters to encourage those in his life, this man was busy. 1st time read. 4/5.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book for school, and it was really encouraging. It’s a collection of letters written by Oliver Cromwell, a Puritan. His letters were so rich, full of scripture, encouragement to his recipients to be faithful followers of Christ and ministers of the gospel. Highly encourage this easy read!

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very short read with snippets of Oliver Cromwell’s letters and sayings. I was very edified by his continual reminders of the faithful covenant God has made with Christ on our behalf. That He has pardoned us only by Christ’s merit and not on our own was a constant theme.

[Tim Bayer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haykin calls Cromwell “the quintessential Puritan.” His letters reflect a deep spirituality and God-centeredness, characteristic of 17th-century Puritanism. Each excerpt is short but profound, making it ideal to read daily and meditate on.

[Josiah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this for a class at Ryle Seminary. Really enjoyed discovering the gospel-centred, even (dare I say!) "Christian hedonist" shape of Cromwell's faith. It made me more interested in his life and times, and especially his political thought, which this book didn't really cover.

[Andrew Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great learning more about Cromwell and his personal piety.

[JT Stead · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great little introduction to the piety of Oliver Cromwell, Lord protector of England.

[Jackson Roderick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A timely read, thankful for men and women like Cromwell that have sought to make their whole life a service to the Lord

[Shanyl Philip · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was surprised by how much I loved reading this book

[Bryan Ulmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This compilation of letters from Oliver Cromwell is a great resource on Puritan spirituality.

[Cole Brandon · Rating 1 out of 5]

This collection of letters is a classic case of "if you’ve read one you’ve read them all."