Proceeding Safely: Aiming For Godliness

Counsels for those who desire godliness

I’m plodding slowly, back and forth through Baxter’s monumental “Christian Directory” trying to glean and condense some of his practical advice for myself, my family, and those who may be interested.  For the next several posts, I’d like to focus in on Chapter 2 of Volume 1, where Baxter gives advice to new believers who are seeking to make their way forward, counsels “proper to those that are but newly entered into religion.” Yet, as I have read his counsels these many years down the road with Christ, I have found myself both encouraged and challenged, and I think no matter where a true believer is in the pilgrimage to glory, Baxter’s admonitions will be a help.

Counsels for those who live amid religious uncertainty and tumult

Baxter’s advice is particularly apropos for pursuing godliness in our day. Much of what he says in this chapter involves the Christian’s interaction with schisms, conflict, and disagreements.  Want to know what your obligations are to the church down the street? How are we to live amid great doctrinal and ecclesial controversies? What are the dangers of zeal? Of moderation?  

In short, how can we aim for godliness in uncertain times?

Direction 1: Beware of Novelty & Reputation

“Take heed lest it be the novelty or reputation of truth and godliness, that takes with you, more than the solid evidence of their excellency and necessity; lest when the novelty and reputation are gone, your religion wither and consume away.”