by Samuel Rutherford
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
A SURVEY OF OUR SAVIOUR IN HIS SOUL-SUFFERING, HIS LOVELINESS IN HIS DEATH, AND THE EFFICACY THEREOF. IN WHICH SOME CASES OF SOUL-TROUBLE IN WEAK BELIEVERS, GROUNDS OF SUBMISSION UNDER THE ABSENCE OF CHRIST, WITH THE FLOWINGS AND HEIGHTENINGS OF FREE GRACE, ARE OPENED. DELIVERED IN SERMONS ON THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO JOHN, CHAP. 12 ver. 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33.
"Christ Dying, and Drawing Sinners to Himself" by Samuel Rutherford is a deep exploration of the sufferings of Christ, His incomparable beauty in death, and the potent impact of His sacrifice. The sermons, based on John 12:27-33, consider the soul's struggles, submission in Christ's absence, and the abundant grace of God. Rutherford addresses contemporary theological errors, defending the Protestant doctrine against Arminianism, which advocates the universal redemption of all mankind, and against certain methods of irresistible conversion and the nature of required faith.
In his writings, Rutherford emphasizes the inadequacy of human language to fully encapsulate the glory and majesty of Jesus Christ. He highlights the struggle of even the most eloquent and knowledgeable individuals, including himself, to adequately describe the Savior's virtues and loveliness. Despite the abundance of literature on Christ—sermons, books, and theological treatises—Rutherford suggests that humanity has barely scratched the surface of comprehending Christ's true essence.
Rutherford criticizes the superficial and speculative writings about Christ by some theologians, contrasting their focus on trivial details with the profound spiritual connection and understanding of Christ expressed in the Song of Solomon. He acknowledges the fullness and richness of grace in Christ but argues that the totality of this grace may not be fully realized in this life. He points out the flaws in the teachings of the Antinomians, particularly their understanding of perfection and sanctification, and emphasizes the eternal nature of our indebtedness to Christ for His sacrifice.
The text also touches upon the transformative power of Christ's grace, which is inexhaustible and eternally refreshing. Rutherford encourages a life deeply rooted in Christ, highlighting the immediate proximity of believers to heavenly glory and the unity between Christ and His followers. He marvels at the vast and infinite aspects of Christ that remain unseen and beyond comprehension, emphasizing the eternal joy of exploring the depths of Christ's grace and love.
Furthermore, Rutherford points out the paradoxical role of sin in God's plan, acknowledging that while God does not need sin, its existence sets the stage for the manifestation of God's grace and the redemption through Christ. He celebrates the unsearchable riches of Christ's grace, which turn even the most sinful souls into paradises of eternal joy and glory.
Rutherford concludes by warning against the dangers of either diminishing the role of Christ's grace or overemphasizing human free will. He advocates for a balanced understanding of the gospel, recognizing the vital role of both law and grace in Christian life. He calls for steadfastness in the truth and guidance towards eternal glory through Christ, the true way, truth, and life.
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Table of Contents
To the Judicious and Godly Reader
Christ Dying and Drawing Sinners to Himself
The Reasons Moving a Soul to Yield to Christ's Drawing
Touching the form and nature and manner of drawing
And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to me
The Son of man came to seek and to save