The Quest for Full Assurance: Legacy of Calvin & His Successors

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Summary: The Quest for Full Assurance
Review: Joel R. Beeke, a graduate of Westminster Theological Seminary, has provided the modern reader with an extensive survey of the English Reformation's legacy of the doctrine of assurance. With keen insight into the writings of the period, he traces the doctrine through English Puritanism and its parallel in the Netherlands, commonly called, "The Dutch Second Reformation." He divides the book into three sections: 1. Assurance Prior to the Westminster Assembly, 2. Assurance from the Westminster Assembly to Alexander Comrie, and 3. Comparison of English Puritanism and the Dutch Second Reformation on Assurance. I was at once awed and inspired and found much food for thought. Anyone interested in vital, experiential, Christianity, ought to acquire this book and read it diligently. As Dr. Beeke concludes, "Christ shall ultimately win the day in believers through the instrument of faith" (p. 285). Also helpful is his 69 page bibliography of primary and secondary sources. In my estimation, this book should not only be read and re-read, but recommended at every opportunity. Ian H. Murray, former editor of the Banner of Truth Trust, said Beeke's work is "A long-needed and outstanding work on the subject of assurance...ofpermanant importance for preachers and students." I might as well add historians to Murray's list, as this book is fundamentally important in uderstanding the history of Christian thought on this point.