by John Owen
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
"The just shall live by his faith."—HAB. 2:4.
John Owen’s The Just Shall Live by His Faith is a deeply theological and pastoral exposition on the nature and necessity of faith, particularly in times of crisis, persecution, and spiritual decline. Rooted in Habakkuk 2:4, a verse frequently quoted by the Apostle Paul, Owen explores how faith is not only the means by which believers are justified but also the very foundation of endurance in the Christian life. Unlike mere intellectual assent, Owen presents faith as a living, active trust in God, which sustains believers amid the trials of life, including public calamities, personal afflictions, and even the threat of persecution.
One of the most compelling aspects of Owen’s work is his ability to apply faith to real-world struggles. He speaks with remarkable prophetic insight about the challenges facing Christians, whether under government oppression, false religion, or a general decline in true godliness. In particular, he warns against the return of popery (Roman Catholicism) in his era and urges believers to hold fast to the Gospel with unwavering faith. His analysis of spiritual decay in churches—the loss of zeal, love, and commitment to biblical truth—feels remarkably relevant today, as many churches face similar struggles with worldliness and compromise.
Owen does not leave his readers in despair but exhorts them to live by faith as their primary means of perseverance. He argues that faith in Christ will strengthen the soul to endure reproach, to resist the pressures of conforming to false religion, and to maintain confidence in God's sovereignty, even when divine judgment seems imminent. He draws upon biblical examples—Noah, Moses, and the saints of old—to demonstrate how true believers have always lived by faith, not by sight, trusting in God's promises despite the opposition of the world.
For modern readers, The Just Shall Live by His Faith is an urgent call to steadfastness. It challenges believers to look beyond temporary trials and fix their eyes on Christ, the author and finisher of faith. Owen’s work is profound, pastoral, and deeply relevant, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to strengthen their faith amid the uncertainties of life. Whether facing personal suffering, societal upheaval, or the encroachment of false teachings, this book is a timely reminder that true believers must anchor their lives in the unshakable foundation of Christ’s righteousness.
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Table of Contents
THE USE AND ADVANTAGE OF FAITH IN A TIME OF PUBLIC CALAMITY
THE USE OF FAITH UNDER REPROACHES AND PERSECUTIONS
THE USE OF FAITH, IF POPERY SHOULD RETURN UPON US
THE USE OF FAITH IN A TIME OF GENERAL DECLENSION IN RELIGION