©2006, Banner of Truth, 166 pages in paperback.

Prior to this reprinting, this rare work had only been reprinted once since its original publication in 1682. It deals with a subject that should be the pursuit of every Christian, the gain of godliness.

In these pages Manton exposits Malachi 3:16-18. He explains this text by the use of two divisions that compose the sections of this volume “The Character of the Godly” and The Good Effects of Godliness”. He defines the godly as those who fear God. Much of the first section is devoted to this timely topic. He opens with very relevant remarks and counsel on the necessity for the Christian to walk in godliness even in evil times.  Then he turns the reader’s attention to the fear of God. How are we to walk in godly fear? Why should we fear God? How do we know if we fear God? When I was a child I can remember adults, particularly at the death of a Christian, remarking that the deceased was a god-fearing man. Such language is almost absent from current conversation. This section is worth the book’s price.

The concluding section provides many encouraging insights into the profitable pursuit of true piety: a piety that engages the world not one that is aloof from it. Again this section is of great value for Christians today. We live in a day when we are tempted to compromise biblical ethics, to deny moral standards, and to pursue our own comfort and security. Manton directs the reader’s attention to the importance of piety in such thought-provoking chapters as “God Regards the Piety of His People” and “God Records the Piety of His People”.   In these and other chapters Manton reiterates the importance of sanctification.

The book’s concluding pages center on sound, comforting counsel to Christians in the midst of affliction. The author’s words are based on Psalm 119:65. There are many words here that can be well used at the bedside of the ill or read with great profit by Christians who are themselves walking through a dark valley of trial.

Manton is one of my favorite Puritan authors. One can count on his writing being full of practical spiritual insight. He uses a wealth of scripture quotes and weaves many doctrines and sound application together into tightly woven chapters that challenge, yet warm, the Christian’s soul. Manton has a great way with words that are eye-catching and enduring. Here are a couple of many examples: “He who has on his breastplate of God’s fear may be shot at, but can never be shot through.” (p. 31) and “When men distrust God’s promises, they murmur at his providences.” (p.66)

Manton aptly uses many historical anecdotes and illustrations to make his points. Combine these with a clear writing style, sound exposition, and pointed applications and one has a book that can be read and reread with great profit.

Review ©2007 Byron Snapp, Hampton, Virginia