by William Bridge
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
William Bridge's A Lifting Up for the Downcast is a deeply comforting and biblically rich work written to encourage believers in times of spiritual discouragement and hardship. This collection of thirteen sermons, originally preached at Stepney in 1648, addresses the various spiritual and emotional struggles that Christians often face. In a compassionate and pastoral tone, Bridge offers practical counsel to those who feel overwhelmed by their sins, weakness of faith, afflictions, temptations, and even a lack of assurance.
Drawing from Psalm 42:11, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God," Bridge systematically works through the common causes of spiritual disquietude. Whether the burden stems from a sense of great sin, a perceived weakness of grace, or the affliction of doubt, Bridge’s sermons provide remedies grounded in Scripture, reminding readers of God's faithfulness and encouraging them to place their hope and trust in Christ.
What makes this work particularly compelling is Bridge's pastoral sensitivity. He understands the deep emotional and spiritual struggles of the believer, addressing not only doctrinal issues but also the internal battles that Christians face. The book covers a broad range of topics, including spiritual depression due to sin, doubts regarding one's assurance of salvation, and feelings of uselessness or discouragement in one's Christian walk. At every point, Bridge directs his readers back to the gospel, pointing them to Christ as the only source of true peace and healing.
Readers will appreciate the direct, yet comforting way that Bridge brings the truths of God’s Word to bear on everyday struggles. His practical application of theology makes A Lifting Up for the Downcast a valuable resource for those looking for encouragement in their Christian life, as well as for pastors seeking to minister to struggling members of their flock. It is a book that is both convicting and consoling, reminding believers of the grace of God even in their deepest times of despair.
Short Bio of the Author:
William Bridge (1600–1670) was an English Puritan preacher and theologian, known for his warm pastoral care and clear biblical teaching. He was a key figure among the dissenters, suffering persecution for his Nonconformist views. Bridge was a member of the Westminster Assembly, and his works reflect a deep commitment to the Reformed faith. His writings, including A Lifting Up for the Downcast, continue to provide spiritual nourishment and guidance for Christians facing various challenges, offering timeless truths from the Word of God.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
To the Reader
SERMON I. - THE GOOD MAN'S PEACE.
SERMON II. -TRUE PEACE MAY BE INTERRUPTED.
SERMON III. - SAINTS SHOULD NOT BE DISCOURAGED WHATEVER THEIR CONDITION BE
SERMON IV - A LIFTING UP IN CASE OF GREAT SINS
SERMON V. - A LIFTING UP IN CASE OF WEAK GRACE.
SERMON VI. - A LIFTING UP IN CASE OF MISCARRIAGE OF DUTIES.
SERMON VII. - A LIFTING UP IN THE WANT OF ASSURANCE.
SERMON VIII. - A LIFTING UP IN CASE OF TEMPTATION.
SERMON IX. - A LIFTING UP IN CASE OF DESERTION.
SERMON X. - A LIFTING UP IN CASE OF AFFLICTION.
SERMON XI. - A LIFTING UP IN CASE OF UNSERVICEABLENESS.
SERMON XII. - A LIFTING UP IN CASE OF DISCOURAGEMENTS DRAWN FROM THE CONDITION ITSELF.
SERMON XIII. - THE CURE OF DISCOURAGEMENTS BY FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST.