Whenever I hear that someone has written something on or given a lecture concerning Charles Spurgeon, I am drawn in. I feel like I am familiar with the stories and most of his work but yet, I can never get enough. I just want to “hear it again.” So, naturally, I was drawn in with this book from Steve Lawson’s A Long Line of Godly Men series.
The book is more theological and philosophical than biographical. Lawson labors to highlight Spurgeon’s theological convictions that shaped his ministry. He does provide some biographical detail, however, the focus is upon what Spurgeon believed and how he applied it.
As you might expect there are quotes abounding in this book. Every sermon and book dripped gospel and was a like neon sign pointing to Christ.
The book is also a compelling call to action, specifically to those who share Spurgeon’s theology (Calvinism). Do you believe in a big God who saves a great multitude from the nations? Then get to work in missions. Do you believe that the preaching of the gospel saves people? Then preach. Do you believe a sovereign God hears and answers prayer? Then pray. Do you believe that you are helpless apart from the Holy Spirit? Then pray and rely upon God.
Let me give you a couple more practical uses for this book. First, it is arranged by topic so you can easily keep this for reference if you need a solid Spurgeon quote for a sermon. Second, there a number of references that will no doubt get some started in their new friendship with the Prince of Preachers.
Finally, I appreciated how Lawson was transparent about the impact Spurgeon had on him as a young seminarian. Some may quibble about the book being such an overt assertion of Calvinistic doctrine, but that is the Spurgeon that Lawson found. In many ways this Spurgeon shaped Dr Lawson. I appreciated this window into his ministry as well.
It’s a good book that keeps on moving. It’s also a quick read. Realizing it is beyond the scope of this project, I would still like to see Lawson expand this out a bit further someday. It is a very encouraging read.
The Gospel Focus of Charles Spurgeon is available at Amazon at a discounted rate: by clicking here.
