An insightful and powerful classic on true Christianity.
Plot
Scougal wrote this treatise in the 1600s as a letter to encourage a friend, and that friend subsequently published it for the encouragement of other believers. It has since been influential in the lives of many famous believers, including evangelist George Whitefield (who wrote that "[he] never knew what true religion was till God sent [him] this excellent treatise") and contemporary writers J.I. Packer and John Piper. In it, Scougal expounds upon the true nature of Christianity and its work in the soul of the regenerated man.
Morality
This little work addresses all points on a thoroughly Biblical foundation, and speaks a great deal about the nature of 'Christ being formed in us' and of the Divine life in a man's soul. Sin of all kinds is equally condemned, and Scougal both encourages the reader to abstain from it, and also firmly declares that only by the grace of God can we do anything.
Spiritual Content
Again, the whole book is about true religion - i.e., Christianity. Scripture is the basis for all of Scougal's points, and he frequently ties in verses.
Violence
None.
Drug and Alcohol Content
None.
Sexual Content
"Lust" is mentioned in the context of sinful desires.
Crude or Profane Language or Content
Scougal references "profanity."
Conclusion
This book is so very rich in its Biblical truths, and equally basic and lofty at once, that it ought to be a staple among Christians. Though Scougal certainly leaves no wiggle-room for sin, he incorporates the grace of God and repeatedly asserts that all our hope is on the work of Jesus Christ, and on the love of God in giving us the Holy Spirit to live in us. Also, the fact that it was first a letter makes it familiar and easy to read, despite its deep truths and rather antique prose. It is a powerful book indeed, and the word "classic" hardly covers it.
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