by Thomas Hill
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
God's Way, to Soul-Refreshing Rest
Thomas Hill’s The Good Old Way is a deeply pastoral and doctrinally rich sermon that calls the believer back to the time-tested paths of biblical faithfulness. Originally preached before the Lord Mayor and Court of Aldermen of the City of London on April 24, 1644, during the turbulent days of the English Reformation, Hill's work stands as a clarion call to seek and walk in “the good old way” of God’s truth, a way that leads to soul-refreshing rest.
Rooted in Jeremiah 6:16-19, the book exhorts believers to "stand in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths—where the good way is—and walk in it, and you shall find rest for your souls." Hill systematically unfolds what this means, addressing the dangers of theological innovation and the necessity of steadfast adherence to scriptural doctrine, worship, and piety. He speaks directly to the challenges of his day—combatting the errors of Antinomians, Socinians, Arminians, and Anabaptists—while issuing a timeless warning against straying from biblical fidelity.
The book’s structure is methodical and engaging, offering practical wisdom through a series of rhetorical questions that guide the reader to consider essential aspects of faith: Who must inquire about the good way? Where should one inquire? To what purpose must one inquire? Hill then expounds on the “old way” in doctrine, worship, practical piety, and church discipline, reinforcing how these ancient paths lead to spiritual security and divine blessing.
What makes The Good Old Way particularly compelling is its call for discernment and vigilance in spiritual matters. Hill urges readers not to be passive in their faith but to actively seek the right path through careful scriptural study, self-examination, and reliance on godly teaching. He warns against blind credulity, reminding believers to test all things by the Word of God rather than human traditions or personal inclinations.
The book is filled with vivid imagery and analogies that draw the reader into deeper reflection. Hill likens the Christian journey to that of travelers in uncertain terrain, emphasizing the need for reliable guides. He highlights historical lessons, warning against the deceit of false teachers and the perils of spiritual negligence. His words resonate with urgency, knowing that Satan seeks to confuse, entangle, and divide believers through error and worldliness.
One of the most engaging aspects of the book is its warm pastoral tone. Though Hill does not shy away from stern warnings against doctrinal compromise, his ultimate aim is to lead his readers to the peace and joy found in Christ. He points repeatedly to God’s faithfulness, assuring his audience that those who sincerely seek the good way will find rest in God. The sermon culminates in a beautiful invitation to walk in the way that leads not only to present spiritual comfort but to eternal rest in the presence of Christ.
For modern readers, The Good Old Way offers a timely and timeless call to faithfulness in an age of theological confusion and compromise. Its emphasis on standing firm in scriptural truth, resisting the allure of novelty, and seeking true communion with God makes it a must-read for those who desire to deepen their faith and anchor their souls in the unchanging Word of God.
This book is not just for scholars or historians but for all believers who long for a clearer understanding of how to walk in holiness, discern truth from error, and find spiritual rest in a world of turmoil. Thomas Hill’s message remains as relevant today as it was in 1644, calling us to return to the sure and steadfast path laid out in Scripture—the good old way that leads to life and peace.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
To the Right Honourable the Lord Mayor, and Court of Aldermen, with Other Citizens of the Renowned C
The Good Old Way, God's Way, to Soul-Refreshing Rest
In What Ways Should You Stand and See?
Question 1: Who Must Inquire?
Question 2: Where Should We Inquire, and From Whom?
Question 3: To What Purpose Must We Inquire?
What is the Good Old Way of Doctrine?
What is the Good Old Way of Divine Worship?
What is the Good Old Way of Practical Piety?
Do Not Forget to Inquire About the Good Old Way of Discipline.
How Far May We Consult Antiquity in Seeking the Good Way?
Walking in the Good Way Brings Soul-Refreshing Rest
Walking in This Good Way
Rest from the Terrors of Conscience
Rest from Scruples, Doubts, and Fears
Rest from Tyrannical Enemies
Rest in Heaven
Walking in the Good Way Leads to Soul-Refreshing Rest
Application
Questions and Answers