by John Bunyan
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
Christian Behavior by John Bunyan is a deeply practical and biblically grounded guide to Christian living. Written in Bunyan’s characteristic plain, yet passionate style, this treatise offers timeless wisdom on how Christians ought to conduct themselves in various spheres of life—whether within the family, the community, or in their personal moral behavior. Originally published in the late 17th century, shortly after Bunyan's release from imprisonment, it stands as a testament to his enduring faith and desire to see believers live out the Gospel in tangible ways.
The heart of the book is Bunyan’s exposition of good works as the natural fruit of true saving faith. He stresses that while Christians are justified by grace alone through faith (as emphasized in Romans 3:24), their faith must manifest itself in good deeds. Drawing heavily from James 2:18, Bunyan argues that good works are the evidence of living faith and are essential for Christians to glorify God before the world.
Bunyan organizes the book around practical duties that Christians have in different relational roles, making it highly relatable and useful. He expounds on the responsibilities of husbands and wives to one another, parents to children, masters to servants, and even provides instruction for children and servants in their duties. His treatment of these relationships is simple yet profound, with Scripture consistently underlying his arguments.
One striking feature of this work is Bunyan’s insight into the human heart. As the editor notes in the introduction, Bunyan seems to have an almost supernatural ability to expose not only the external behaviors of men but also the hidden recesses of their hearts. His reflections on sin, such as pride and covetousness, and his discussions on virtues like humility and contentment, resonate deeply with readers, offering not just moral instruction but spiritual exhortation.
For those who seek to deepen their walk with God, Christian Behavior is an invaluable guide. Bunyan’s exhortations lead step by step from darkness to light, urging readers to examine their lives in the light of Scripture. His encouragement to not shrink back from the duties God has given them is both comforting and challenging. With an eye toward the final judgment, he reminds Christians that their behavior reflects their faith and impacts both their witness and their spiritual growth.
John Bunyan, born in 1628, was an English Puritan preacher and writer best known for his masterpiece The Pilgrim’s Progress. Bunyan’s works were largely shaped by his own experiences of hardship, particularly his years of imprisonment for preaching the Gospel. His writing style is engaging, with an unshakable reliance on Scripture and a deep concern for the souls of his readers. He remains one of the most widely read Christian authors of all time, and his works continue to inspire believers to live out their faith with sincerity and conviction.
-----
Table of Contents
Advertisement by the Editor
The Epistle to the Reader
Christian Behavior
Duties to the Master of a Family
Duties to the Family in General
Duty in Relation to the Wife
Duties of Parents of Children
Duties of Masters to Servants
The Duties of Wives
Duties of Children to Parents
Concerning Servants
Duties to Neighbours to Each Other
Of Coveteousness
Of Pride
Of Adultery or Uncleaness
To Conclude