Review: The Select Practical Writings of John Knox

This is a fascinating selection of the writings of the great Scottish reformer John Knox first published in 1845. The text is unabridged and unaltered except that the spelling has been updated.
Covering the period 1554 to 1558 the book includes 15 personal letters, 2 sermons, an exposition of Psalm 6 and a number of general epistles. One of the sermons is his famous message on Isaiah 26 that so upset Lord Darnley, husband of Mary Queen of Scots.

The opening chapter provides an excellent summary of the historical context of each item included. The book therefore gives a window into 5 years of John Knox’s momentous life.

However, this is much more than a mere historical record. You will see his pastoral love for believers as he seeks to help those afflicted by persecution and ill health. You will appreciate his careful and thorough exposition and application of God’s word. You will be struck by his thoughtful use of scripture to support his argument. Above all, you should find yourself challenged by his burning love for the truth and his hatred of idolatry.

Knox can be wordy at times. Occasionally his rugged language grates compared to our more genteel times, but do not let that put you off. This book is a rare gem and worth reading. If we catch a small portion of his passion for the true Gospel then we will be the better for it.

Banner of Truth are to be commended for reprinting this scarce Victorian work.

This review was first published on GoodBookReviews.org.uk. The site has been closed as of March 2019.