Final Chapters and Final Thoughts

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The Bruised Reed (TBR) has been on my “to read” list for many years and I’m glad to have finally read it. I have profited greatly by doing so. With that said, I know there is so much I missed along the way, and much I failed to convey in my chapter summaries. But like any good book, I'm sure a reread would open new vistas of understanding. Perhaps I will do that someday. But for now, here are a few of my highlights from the final two chapters. One recurring theme that I found particularly encouraging in TBR was a long view of Christian growth and sanctification. Sibbes repeatedly reminds us of small beginnings and growth over time. See a flame in a spark, a tree in a seed. See great things in little beginnings. Look not so much to the beginning as to the perfection, and so we shall be, in some degree, joyful in ourselves, and thankful to Christ.[i] Another thing I appreciate about Sibbes is that, although he recognizes our frailty, sin, and weakness, there is no coddling of sin. He...
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Introduction

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When the beauty of Christ is unfolded, it draws the wounded, hungry soul unto him. The preaching of the word doth that that shows the sweet love of God in Jesus Christ. – Richard Sibbes


Richard Sibbes (1577 - 1635) was a Puritan lecturer, theologian, and pastor. Although a prolific writer (as were many Puritans) his best known work is The Bruised Reed. 

Highly regarded for his pastoral heart and gracious manner, Sibbes became known as “the heavenly Doctor”. Among those who have been refreshed and profoundly moved by Sibbes’ writings include Richard Baxter, C. H. Spurgeon, and Martin Lloyd Jones. J. I. Packer wrote, “Sibbes concentrated on exploring the love, power and patience of Christ, and the riches of the promises of God. He was a pioneer in working out the devotional application of the doctrine of God’s covenant of grace.” *

In terms of pages, The Bruised Reed is actually a rather short book. But in my limited experience reading the Puritans, the truth being communicated is often so profound, I find the need to pause, reflect, and re-read. So, while this book may prove to be a short read, I suspect that (for some of us) it may also be a slow read. For those interested in reading more of the Puritans in general, you will be glad to know that Sibbes is considered by many to be a great introduction to the Puritans.

You can find a digital copy of The Bruised Reed at these links:

Amazon

Monergism

 

For further reading:

Desiring God - A Bruised Reed He Will Not Break

Tim Challies: The Puritans - Richard Sibbes

9 Marks Book Review: The Bruised Reed


Extra Credit:

Dallas Theological Seminary: Mark Dever on Richard Sibbes




* h/t Monergism

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