by Isaac Ambrose
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
Isaac Ambrose’s Looking Unto Jesus is a profound devotional work written in the 17th century, aiming to elevate the reader’s heart and mind to fixate solely on Christ as the foundation of faith and life. Published in 1680, this book is the first in a 10-part series, each designed to guide believers into deeper communion with God through various aspects of spiritual discipline and theological reflection. Exemplifying Puritan spirituality, the series blends doctrinal depth with heartfelt exhortation, and Looking Unto Jesus stands out as an invitation to engage the believer’s affections and intellect in a life-transforming focus on Christ.
The book revolves around the core idea derived from Hebrews 12:2: “Looking unto Jesus, the beginner and finisher of our faith.” Ambrose divides this monumental theme into practical exhortations and theological explorations that focus on the necessity, method, and benefits of looking to Christ in every season and circumstance of life. The author begins with a personal reflection on how his own recovery from a severe illness inspired him to meditate deeply on Christ’s eternal work. This led to the development of the book, which he structured as a guide for Christians to cultivate a life-long discipline of contemplating and communing with Christ.
Ambrose’s work is systematically laid out into chapters and sections. It begins with a call to “look off” all distractions and worldly entanglements that divert the believer from Christ. He then explains the act and object of looking, detailing what it means to “look unto Jesus” and the various attributes of Christ as the ultimate object of faith. The author also provides motivation, highlighting the spiritual riches that flow from a Christ-centred life. Furthermore, he offers step-by-step guidance for developing this discipline in daily life, rooted in Scripture, prayer, and meditation.
The book is marked by its theological depth. Ambrose explores the person and work of Christ across eternity, considering His pre-incarnate glory, incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, intercession, and ultimate return. It is a masterful exposition of Christology, showcasing a deep understanding of the Scriptures and the theological traditions of the Puritan era. Yet, Looking Unto Jesus is more than a theological treatise; it is a devotional manual. Ambrose writes with heartfelt fervour, urging readers not merely to know Christ intellectually but to engage with Him emotionally and spiritually, “tasting and seeing” His beauty and love.
Ambrose’s pastoral tone is evident throughout the book as he exhorts believers to forsake sin and worldly distractions. He likens Christ to the sun, whose light and warmth transform the soul, and warns against anything that would obscure this life-giving gaze. His directions for daily meditation and prayer provide practical tools for believers seeking spiritual growth, ensuring that the book is not only a source of theological enrichment but also a guide for personal transformation.
While the book’s theological richness and practical insights are its strengths, its 17th-century prose may pose challenges for modern readers. The language, though elegant and deeply expressive, can require careful attention. Moreover, its comprehensive nature and exhaustive exploration of its theme might feel overwhelming to readers unfamiliar with Puritan works. However, the effort to engage with its depth is richly rewarded.
Ambrose’s frequent exhortations to “come and warm your heart at this blessed fire” capture the essence of the book. It invites readers to a deeper, richer, and more Christ-focused Christian life. Looking Unto Jesus is a spiritual classic, offering timeless encouragement to live with Christ at the centre of all thoughts, affections, and actions. It is a work that promises profound spiritual enrichment to those who take the time to savour its pages.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
To the Reader
Chap 1. The Proem, Division, and Opening of the Words
Chap. 2
-- Sect. 1. The Duty of Looking off all other Things, Confirmed and Cleared
-- Sect. 2. An Exhortation to Look off all other Things
-- Sect. 3. Directions how to Look off all other Things
Chap. 3.
-- Sect. 1. An Explanation of the Act, and Object
-- Sect. 2. The main Doctrine and Confirmation of it
-- Sect. 3. Use of Reproof
-- Sect. 4. Use of Exhortation
-- Sect. 5. Motives from our Wants, in case of Neglect
-- Sect. 6. Motives from our Riches, in case we are lively in this Duty
-- Sect. 7. More Motives to Encourage us in this Work
-- Sect. 8. Use of Direction