NONE BUT JESUS
Selections from the writings of John Flavel
(Pocket Puritans series)
Editor Nathan T Parker
Banner of Truth. 158 pages. £3.25
ISBN 978 1 848 714 076
This newest addition to the Pocket Puritans series contains 384 extracts from John Flavel (1627-91) drawn from Nathan Parker’s doctoral thesis research. The quotes cover a wide range of topics such as providence, the excellency of Christ, heaven, conversion, suffering and glory.
The book aims to introduce readers to John Flavel, and for ‘many to feast their hearts on Jesus Christ’.
I confess I was favourably predisposed to three aspects of the book – firstly, I appreciate the warmth of the Puritans; secondly, I enjoy any author’s ability to say much in a few words; thirdly, I like short books as introductions to larger works. I was far from disappointed.
Great quotes
Unlike The Loveliness of Christ (a similar work from Rutherford’s letters), each quote is numbered – a good addition. You can pick up the change of topics as you go, but I think more clearly defined categories with headings would help the reader who likes to ‘dip in’ for quotes or consider a certain topic. The language is unchanged from Flavel’s day – a glossary helps; at times the style of language is more evident than others.
It’s more than the scale of the task of selection that is impressive (more than six volumes into 384 extracts!); a very handy-sized edition of great quotes so cheaply priced is surely a good way to introduce oneself or others to Flavel’s writings. As I read, I found myself gladly and easily considering Christ, more than Flavel or Parker. Job done!
