.
Subsections
Commentaries on the Beatitudes
Commentaries on the Sermon on Mount
Commentaries on the Heidelberg Catechism
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Order of Contents
On Practical Theology 4
Works of 112+
Library of 1
Arminian 5
Romanism 4
Historical 7+
Biblios 4
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On Practical Theology
Articles
1600’s
Dury, John – Gospel-Communion in the Way of Godliness Sued for by the Protestant Churches in Germany unto the Churches of Great Britain & Ireland, in a Letter Written & Sent hither to that Effect (London, 1654) 5 pp.
The reformed and ecumenical Scottish theologian, John Dury, and other Church leaders, here ask officials in Britain to have some of their best practical theology writings translated into the languages of near countries so as to promote friendly relations amongst diverse Churches through communion in godliness to the subduing of strife.
Voet, Gisbert – in ed. John Beardslee, Reformed Dogmatics: J. Wollebius, G. Voetius & F. Turretin (Oxford Univ. Press, 1965), Voet, Select Disputations of Theology ToC
‘Concerning Practical Theology’, pp. 263-316
‘Concerning ‘Precision”, pp. 316-34
.
1900’s
Kuiper, R.B. – inaugural address, “The Function of the Chair of Practical Theology”
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Latin Articles
1600’s
7. ‘Of Precision, in the Illustration of the Catechism Questions #94 [1st Commandment], 113 [10th Commandment], 115 [On the 10 Commandments]’ 59-79
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Works of Practical Theology
1600’s
Perkins, William – The Whole Treatise of the Cases of Conscience Distinguished into Three Books… (d. 1602; Cambridge, 1606) 635 pp. ToC
Bayly, Lewis – The Practice of Piety, directing a Christian how to Walk that he may Please God, amplified by the Author (1611; London: Brewster, 1695) 466 pp. ToC
Dedeken, Georg
The Practice of Conscience, that is, a thorough description, according to all instruction, teaching and comfort on how to deal with broken consciences and sorrowful hearts in afflictions and great distress… from God’s Word, the writings of Dr. Luther and other fathers, 3 vols. in 1 (d. 1628; Eisleben: Koch, 1668) tr. AI Faith Received from German
Dedeken (1564-1628) was a German, Lutheran theologian. He relinquished the positions he had received in Schönberg (1590) and in Neustadt (1595) as a result of the adversity he incurred by openly speaking out against the concubinage of his high patrons.
Treasury of Counsels & Decisions, vol. 1 (Ecclesiastical), 2 (Political), 3 (Mixed Matters & Marriage), 4 (Appendix: Ecclesiastical, Political, Marriage) (Eisleben: Koch, 1668-1671) tr. AI Faith Received German 1, 2, 3, 4
Taylor, Thomas
The Practice of Repentance laid down in sundry directions, together with the Helps, Lets, Signs & Motives (London: Bartlet, 1628) 395 pp. ToC
The Progress of Saints to Full Holiness, described in Sundry Apostolic Aphorisms, or Short Precepts tending to Sanctification… on 1 Thess. 5:19-25 (London: W.I., 1630) 409 pp. ToC
Circumspect Walking describing the Several Rules as so many Several Steps in the Way of Wisdom, gathered into this Short Manual (London: Boler, 1631) 319 pp. ToC
Three Treatises the Pearl of the Gospel, The Pilgrim’s Profession: and A Glass for Gentlewomen to Dress Themselves by. To which is added A Short Introduction to the Worthy Receiving of the Lord’s Supper (London: Bartlet, 1633) 160 pp. ToC
The Principles of Christian Practice, containing the Institution of a Christian Man, in Twelve Heads of Doctrine (London: Young, 1635) 604 pp. ToC
A Treatise of Contentment, leading a Christian with much Patience through all afflicted conditions by sundry rules of heavenly wisdom: whereunto is annexed first, A Treatise of the Improvement of Time, Secondly, The Holy War, in a visitation sermon (London: R.H., 1641) 215 pp. ToC
Rogers, Daniel – A Practical Catechism: or a View of those Principal Truths according to Godliness, which are contained in the Catechism (London: Norton, 1632) 135 pp. ToC
Bolton, Robert
Some General Directions for a Comfortable Walking with God, Delivered in the Lecture… (London: Kyngston, 1626) 391 pp. ToC
A Threefold Treatise containing the Saints’ Sure & Perpetual Guide: Self-Enriching Examination, Soul-Fatting Fasting: or Meditations concerning the Word, the Sacrament of the Lords Supper & Fasting (London: Purslow, 1634) 252 pp. ToC Index
A Discourse about the State of True Happiness, Delivered in Certain Sermons… (London: Kyngston, 1611) 156 pp. ToC
The Carnal Professor, discovering the woeful slavery of a man guided by the flesh, distinguishing a true spiritual Christian that walks close with God from all formalists in religion, rotten hearted hypocrites and empty, powerless professors whatsoever (London: Dawlman, 1634) 267 pp. ToC Index
Helps to Humiliation (Oxford: Turner, 1631) 164 pp. ToC
A Cordial for Christians in the Time of Affliction, or a Sermon… (London: Miller, 1640) 27 pp. ToC
Instructions for a Right Comforting Afflicted Consciences with Special Antidotes against some grievous temptations: delivered for the most part in the lecture… (London: Kyngston, 1631) 560 pp. ToC
Two Sermons preached… at Two Several Assizes [Days of Judgment at Court] there… (London: Miller, 1635) 102 pp. ToC on Prov. 29:2, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked bear rule, the people mourn.”
Certain Devout Prayers of Mr. Bolton upon Solemn Occasions (d. 1631; London: 1638) 287 pp. ToC
Twisse, William – The Doctrine of the Synod of Dort & Arles reduced to the Practice… (Amsterdam: Thorp, 1631) 198 pp. ToC
Ames, William – Conscience with the Power & Cases Thereof Divided into Five Books, bks 1-3 ([Leiden & London] 1639) Here is bk. 3, ch. 1, ‘Of Obedience’ (EEBO has missing pages) which deals only with obedience to God (not to men). Bks. 4-5 do not appear to be online.
Saltmarsh, John – The Practice of Policy in a Christian Life, taught from the Scriptures (London: E.G., 1639) 304 pp. ToC
Saltmarsh (d. 1647) was an English religious radical, writer and preacher, described as “one of the most gentle tongued of controversialists”. He supported the Solemn League & Covenant (1643) and was chaplain in the parliament’s army. He was commonly accused of antinomianism, preaching free grace theology; he published on the topics of peace, love and unity.
Alting, Henry – The Scriptural Theology of Heidelberg, vol. 2 (Problems: Theoretical & Practical) (d. 1644; Amsterdam: Janssonius, 1646) tr. AI Faith Received Latin
Alting (1583-1644) was a German reformed theologian and a professor of theology at Heidelberg and of historical theology at Groningen.
Hobson, Paul – Practical Divinity (London: Hartford, 1646) 122 pp. ToC
Hobson (d. 1666) was an English particular baptist who was accused of being Antinomian by Thomas Edwards and Richard Baxter. He served in the parliamentary army during the English Civil War, was one of the signatories to the Baptist Confession of 1644 and later adopted Fifth Monarchy ideas.
Fenner, William
Practical Divinity: or Gospel-Light shining forth in Several Choice Sermons… (London: Stafford, 1647) 295 pp. ToC
Four Profitable Treatises very useful for Christian Practice viz. I. the killing power of the law. II. the spiritual watch. III. the new birth. IV. of the Sabbath (London: Maxey, 1657) 196 pp. ToC
Tickell, John – Crumbs of Bread for the Dove in the Clefts of the Rock & the Secret Places of the Stairs, Cant. 2:14, or Helps to Meditation on Conversion, Mortification, Sanctification, the Christian’s Daily Walk, Reading the Scriptures & Good Practical Books (n.p.: n.p., 1652?) 76 pp. ToC
Tickell (d. 1694)
White, Thomas – Pantheologia, or the Sum of Practical Divinity Practiced in the Wilderness & Delivered by our Savior in his Sermon on the Mount… (London: A.M., 1653) 182 pp. ToC
White (1607-1672), was an English, ejected, non-conformist minister at St. Anne’s, Aldersgate.
Hall, Joseph
The Works of, vol. 1 (Contemplations on Biblical Passages), 2 (Contemplations on Biblical Passages), 3 (Paraphrases of Hard Biblical Texts), 4 (Paraphrases of Hard Biblical Texts), 5 (Practical Sermons), 6 (Practical Pieces), 7 (Practical Pieces), 8 (Practical Pieces, Speeches & Romanism), 9 (Miscellaneous), 10 (Latin) new ed. (Oxford Univ. Press, 1863) ToC
Cases of Conscience Practically Resolved, containing a Decision of the Principal Cases of Conscience of Daily Concernment & Continual Use amongst Men… (London, 1654) 423 pp. ToC
Hall was a godly, Anglican bishop. He discusses 43 rather common, and therefore very applicable, cases of conscience that often come up in life for the Christian. His discussions are very good, not being too brief or lengthy, nor too simple or too complex.
The first decade of cases deal with commerce and profit, the second, life and liberty, third, of piety and religion, fourth, of marriage.
Dury, John
A Summary Platform of the Heads of a Body of Practical Divinity (1654) 12 pp. no ToC with a letter from Archbishop James Ussher recommending that such a body of practical divinity be written
John Dury (1596-1680) grew up with connections to the heads of state, and was advised by an eminent chaplain that to reconcile the divisions of the protestant churches would be the greatest work of peacemaking (Matt 5:9) that one could do. Dury subsequently devoted his entire adult life’s work to this end, with indefatigable journeys, letter writing and conferencing among the leading church figures of the day. The titles of his many writings also bear out this purpose.
This particular work is the first part of a brief summary outline of practical scriptural living and ethics, intended as an ecumenical effort to unite churches abroad. Previous to this work, a letter was written by William Gouge, Obadiah Sedgwick and others to James Ussher asking him to lead a joint project to write such a body of divinity. Ussher was favorable to the project but it was interrupted by the English Civil War. Other signers to this effort included: John Downame, George Walker, Adoniram Byfield, Sidrach Simpson, Richard Culverwell, George Hughes and Joseph Symonds. Dury ended up writing the desired outline of practical divinity. HT: Andrew Myers.
The Earnest Breathings of Foreign Protestants, Divines & Others to the Ministers & Other Able Christians of these Three Nations for a Complete Body of Practical Divinity… & an Essay of a Model of the Said Body of Divinity (London, 1658) 57 pp. ToC
This work also contains an appended letter by William Gouge, Obadiah Sedgwick and others to James Ussher asking him to lead a joint project to write a body of divinity. Ussher was favorable to the project but it was interrupted by the English Civil War. Other signers included: John Downame, George Walker, Adoniram Byfield, Sidrach Simpson, Richard Culverwell, George Hughes and Joseph Symonds. HT: Andrew Myers.
Teate Jr., Faithful – A Scripture-Map of the Wilderness of Sin & Way to Canaan, or the Sinner’s Way to the Saints’ Rest: wherein the close bewildering sleights of sin, wiles of the Devil and windings of the heart… before, in and after conversion, the necessity of leaning upon Christ alone for salvation, with directions therein: as also, the evident and eminent danger of false guides, false ways, false leaning-stocks are plainly and practically discovered, being the sum of 64 Lecture Sermons… Cant. 8:5 (London: Sawbridge, 1655) 462 pp. ToC
Teate Jr. (c. 1626 – 1666) was a Protestant clergyman and poet from Ireland. He was ejected in 1662. He was the father of the poet laureate, Nahum Tate.
Lyford, William – Principles of Faith & Good Conscience digested into a catechetical form: together with an appendix: 1. Unfolding the terms of practical divinity. 2. Showing some marks of God’s children. 3. Some general rules and principles of holy life (Oxford: Hall, 1655) 318 pp. ToC
Lyford (1598–1653) was an English partially-conforming minister, elected to the Westminster Assembly, though he did not sit in it.
Ford, Simon – The Spirit of Bondage & Adoption, Largely & Practically Handled… and the proper cases of conscience belonging to them both… whereunto is added a discourse concerning the duty of prayer in an afflicted condition… (London: Maxey, 1655) 630 pp. ToC
Ford (1619?-1699) was an English puritan minister who conformed in 1662.
Dingley, Robert
A Sincere Believer Comforted & Encouraged, or a Practical Treatise discovering the Goodness of God to a Sinful Soul, in the enjoyment of Christ: with the great benefit and comfort he has thereby… (London: M.S., 1656) 291 pp. ToC Index
Dingley (1619–1660) was an English puritan divine who supported the Parliamentary cause in the English Civil War.
Divine Optics, or a Treatise of the Eye, discovering the Vices & Virtues thereof; as also how that organ may be tuned, chiefly grounded on Ps. 119:37 (London: J.M., 1655 [1654]) 105 pp. Outline
Jeanes, Henry
A Mixture of Scholastical Divinity with Practical in Several Tractates, wherein Some of the Most Difficult Knots in Divinity are Untied, Many Dark Places of Scripture Cleared, Sundry Heresies & Errors Refuted (Oxford, 1656) 396 pp. no ToC
Jeanes (1611-1662) was a puritan minister.
A Second Part of The Mixture of Scholastical Divinity with Practical in Several Tractates (1660) 360 pp. Extended ToC Scripture Index
On the Indifferency of Human Actions 1
On Abstinence from All Appearance of Evil, 1 Thess. 5:22 67
Of the Last & General Judgement, Rom. 2:16 173
On the Nature of Thanksgiving, Eph. 5:20 257
Of Original Righteousness & its Contrary, Concupiscence [contra Jeremy Taylor] 279
The Malignant Influence or Causality of Concupiscence, Jam. 1:14-15 318
The Created & Lapsed Condition of Man, Eccl. 7:29 346
Certain Letters of Jeanes & Dr. Jeremy Taylor Concerning his further Explication of Original Sin
Taylor’s Passage
To the Reader
The Letters of Jeanes & Taylor Alternating 1-48
Uniformity in Human Doctrinal Ceremonies Ungrounded on 1 Cor. 14:40 [contra Henry Hammond, alternating] 1-88
Ball, John – The Power of Godliness, both Doctrinally & Practically handled, wherein the nature, comprehensiveness, parts and properties of a godly life are discovered by Scripture-evidence… (London: Miller, 1657) 506 pp. ToC
Finch, Martin – A Manual of Practical Divinity for the Benefit of Weak Christians, the Informing their Judgments, the Quickening their Affections & Directing their Conversation… (London: R.W., 1658) 182 pp. ToC
Finch (c. 1628—1698) was an English minister, ejected at 1662, who continued as an Independent minister. He accepted the indulgence of 1672. Finch preached for the funeral of the presbyterian minister, John Collinges.
Rutherford, Samuel – Influences of the Life of Grace, or a Practical Treatise Concerning the Way, Manner, & Means of having & Improving of Spiritual Dispositions, & Quickening Influences from Christ… (London, 1659) 438 pp. ToC
Cradock, Samuel – Knowledge & Practice: Or a Plain Discourse of the Chief Things Necessary in Order to be Known, Believed & Practised in Order to Salvation. Useful for Private Families (1659 / 1673) 156 pp. ToC
Cradock (c.1620-1706) was a reformed, congregationalist, non-conformist tutor in England.
“One of the best systems of divinity which a plain man can read.” – David Bogue (a congregationalist)
Clarke, Samuel – Medulla Theologiae, or the Marrow of Divinity Contained in Sundry Questions & Cases of Conscience, both Speculative & Practical, the Greatest Part of them Collected out of the Works of our Most Judicious, Experienced & Orthodox English Divines (London, 1659) 458 pp. ToC Index
This Samuel Clarke (1599-1682) was reformed, a puritan in the Church of England and a writer of ecclesiastical biographies. He is to be distinguished from the Bible annotator Samuel Clarke (1626–1701), who was a non-conformist and had Baxterian influences.
Whiting, Nathaneel – Old Jacob’s Altar Newly Repaired, or the Saint’s Triangle of Dangers, Deliverances & Duties, Personal & National, Practically Improved in many particulars, seasonable and experimental… (London: Ekins, 1659) 274 pp. ToC
Whiting (1617?-1682) was an English puritan minister and poet, associated with All Saints’ Church at Aldwincle in Northamptonshire. He was ejected at 1662 and continued a non-conformist ministry.
Various Puritans – Puritan Sermons: The Morning Exercises at Cripplegate, vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 (1659-1689) See also the various supplements to volume 1 at The Great Christian Library.
This 6 volume set of puritan sermons was given over a 30 year period in the late 1600’s on weekday mornings by puritan ministers near London. The ministers were assigned a practical question of the Christian life to address, and proceed to delve into it in detail. This is some of best practical divinity there is. Volume 5 specifically goes through the heads of systematic theology in a practical manner.
Younge, Richard – A Christian Library, or a Pleasant & Plentiful Paradise of Practical Divinity in 37 Treatises… (London: M.I., 1660) ToC
Younge (fl. 1640–1670) was a puritan tract writer.
Jelinger, Christopher – Heaven Won by Violence, or a Treatise upon Mt. 11:12, compendiously containing very nigh the whole body of practical divinity: and showing what a sacred violence is, and how it must be used and offered in believing, repenting and all the duties of your high calling: together with a new and living way of dying, upon Heb. 11:1… (London: 1665) 112 pp. ToC
Jelinger was a presbyterian minister.
Guthrie, William – The Christian’s Great Interest (†1665; Glasgow: Collins, 1833) 255 pp. ToC
Guthrie handles the reader gently and winsomely in ‘a most homely and plain style’, not crushing the bruised reed but building up even the smallest babe in Christ to know how to attain an assurance of salvation, even ‘Heaven on earth’.
Thomas Chalmers, one of the fathers of the later Free Church of Scotland, who wrote an Introductory Essay to the work, said that ‘while it guides, it purifies,’ and that it ‘is the best book I ever read’. Be not fooled, though the book is sweetly simple, John Owen said of Guthrie and his work, ‘That author I take to have been one of the greatest divines that ever wrote… I have written several folios, but there is more divinity in it than in them all.’
Gouge, Thomas – The Principles of Religion Explained to the Capacity of the Meanest, with Practical Applications to Each Head (1668) 128 pp. no ToC
Gouge (1601-1681) was the son of William Gouge; he was an English presbyterian clergyman and associated with the Puritan movement.
Bartlet, John – The Practical Christian: or a Summary View of the Chief Heads of Practical Divinity in order to the begetting, preserving, and increasing the life and power of godliness in the hearts and lives of professors; laid down in a plain and succinct manner, by way of meditation (London: Parkhurst, 1670) 317 pp. ToC
Bartlet (fl. 1662), was an English nonconformist divine and a friend of Richard Sibbes. He was ejected from the Anglican ministry in the Great Ejection of 1662, though he continued preaching.
B.C. – A Brief & Perspicuous Manuduction [Introduction] to Practical Divinity, by way of Question & Answer, wherein the Chief Principles of Religion are so Explained as to infer a Good Life from them (London: J.R.,1670) 40 pp.
Baxter, Richard
A Christian Directory: a Sum of Practical Theology & Cases of Conscience… (London: White, 1673) ToC
This work, with his Latin work, Method of Christian Theology, was intended to comprise a whole body of divinity (the theological in Latin and the practical in English). This work includes four parts: (1) Christian Ethics (Private Duties), (2) Christian Economics (Family Duties), (3) Christian Ecclesiastics (Church Duties), and (4) Christian Politics (Corporate/Civic Duties).
“The most outstanding pastor, evangelist and writer on practical and devotional themes that Puritanism produced.” – J.I. Packer
The Practical Works of Richard Baxter (London: Hall, 1845) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4
vol. 1 Christian Directory, Moral Prognostication, Reformed Liturgy
vol. 2 Reasons of Christian Religion, Unreasonableness of Infidelity, Conversion, Call to Unconverted, Self-Acquaintance, Peace of Conscience, God’s Goodness, Weak vs. Sound Christian
vol. 3 Everlasting Life, Self-Denial, Crucifying the World, Life of Faith, Divine Life, Lord’s Day, Patience, Dying Thoughts
vol. 4 Counsel to Young Men, Catechizing, Confirmation & Restoration, Reformed Pastor, Vain Religion, Cain & Abel, Knowledge & Love, Catholic Unity, One Thing Necessary, Justices of Peace, Redemption of Time, Free Will, Ministerial Plainness
Wells, John – The Practical Sabbatarian: or Sabbath-Holiness Crowned with Superlative Happiness (London: 1668) 810 pp. ToC Index
Hoornbeek, Johannes – Practical Theology, 2 vols. in 1 2nd ed. (d. 1666; Utrecht: van de Water, 1689) tr. AI Faith Received Latin 1, 2
Camfield, Benjamin – Quod tibi, hoc alteri, ne alteri quod non vis tibi: A Profitable Enquiry into that Comprehensive Rule of Righteousness: Do as you would be done by: being a practical discourse on St. Mt. 7:12 (London: Eversden, 1671) 239 pp. ToC
Camfield (1638-1693) was an Anglican minister who defended episcopacy and wrote on witchcraft and against Independents as making an undue schism.
Scougal, Henry
The Life of God in the Soul of Man, or the Nature & Excellency of the Christian Religion, with the method of attaining the happiness it proposes: and an account of the beginnings and advances of a spiritual life (London: Smith, 1677) 128 pp. ToC
The Works of Henry Scougal (NY: Robert Carter, 1839) 275 pp. ToC
Sherlock, Richard
The Practical Christian, divided into four parts [parts 1-2 only]: I. The practice of self-examination and a form of confession fitted thereunto; the Lord’s Prayer and penitential Psalms paraphrased, with meditations and prayers to be made partakers of Christ’s merits. II. Directions, meditations and prayers, in order to the worthy receiving of the Holy Communion of the body and blood of Christ… (London: Flesher, 1677) 294 pp. ToC
Sherlock (1612-1689) was a minister and chaplain serving in England and Ireland, supporting the side of the king during the civil wars. He was conformed after 1662.
The Third Part of The Practical Christian, consisting of Meditations & Psalms illustrated with Notes, or Paraphrased, relating to the hours of prayer, the ordinary actions of day and night, and several dispositions of men (London: Flesher, 1677) 347 pp. ToC
Practical Meditations [pt. 4] upon the Four Last Things viz. I. Death, II. Judgment, III. Hell, IV. Heaven (London: J.H., 1692) 124 pp. ToC
Mather, Increase – Practical Truths tending to Promote the Power of Godliness, wherein several important duties are urged and the evil of diverse common sins is evinced: delivered in sundry sermons (Boston: Green, 1682) 220 pp. ToC
Strachan, Patrick – The Map of the Little World [i.e. a Man] illuminated with Religion, being a Practical Treatise, Directing Man to a Religious Scope & Right Measure in all the Periods of his Life, with devotion suitable… in some Sermons, upon 2 Pet. 1:12, etc. (Edinburgh: Reid, 1693) 277 pp. ToC
Strachan (d. 1693) was the conformed Scottish minister of St Vigeans, near Arbroath.
“After the restoration of King Charles II and of Episcopal government, about 1665, Patrick Strachan was translated from Carmylie to St Vigeans. He continued in the charge several years after the Revolution of 1688, without conforming to the Presbyterian government then reestablished… This publication [The Map of the Little World] skews that its author, although no great poet, was a good man, and a sound Protestant divine.”
Barrow, Isaac – Practical Discourses upon the Consideration of our Latter End, & the Danger & Mischief of Delaying Repentance (d. 1677; London: Aylmer, 1694) 176 pp. ToC
Barrow (1630–1677) was an English Christian theologian and mathematician. Isaac Newton was a student of his.
Lucas, Richard
Practical Christianity, or an Account of the holiness which the Gospel enjoins, with the motives to it and the remedies it proposes against temptations… (London: Pawlett, 1677) 307 pp. ToC
Lucas (1648/1649 – 1715) was a Welsh clergyman and writer of devotional works.
The Plain Man’s Guide to Heaven, containing his duty: 1. Towards God. II. Towards his neighbor, with proper prayers, meditations and ejaculations designed chiefly for the countryman, tradesman, laborer and such like (London: Smith, 1692) 168 pp. ToC
See also Lucas’s other works at EEBO-TCP.
Ness, Christopher – A Christian’s Walk & Work on Earth until He attain to Heaven, which may serve as a practical guide and a plain direction in his pilgrimage thither, through his personal and relative duties… (London: Newman, 1678) 237 pp. ToC
Ranew, Nathanael
Practical Discourses concerning Death & Heaven, discovering the great necessity of a speedy preparation for death: with the danger of neglecting or delaying such preparations: also the excellency, glory and happiness of Heaven opened… (d. 1678; London: N.R., 1694) 215 pp. ToC
Ranew (1602-1678) was a partially conforming Anglican minister, a prominent minister among the Essex nonconformists. He was ejected in 1662. Calamy called him “a judicious divine, generally esteemed and valued.”
The Glory & Happiness of the Saints in Heaven, or a Discourse concerning the Blessed State of the Righteous after Death (London: N.R., 1694) 209 pp. ToC
Solitude Improved by Divine Meditation, or a Treatise proving the Duty & Demonstrating the Necessity, Excellency, Usefulness, Natures, Kinds & Requisites of Divine Meditation (London: J.M., 1670) 383 pp. ToC
Marshall, Walter – The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification opened in sundry Practical Directions, suited especially to the Case of those who Labor under the Guilt & Power of Indwelling Sin… (d. 1680; London: Parkhurst, 1692) 331 pp. ToC
Thomas, William – Practical Piety, or the Pastor’s Last Legacy to his Beloved People directing how to Walk with God in these Apostatizing Times… to which is added morning and evening prayers for private families (London: Thomas, 1681) 232 pp. ToC
Thomas (1592/3–1667) was a puritan and presbyterian rector of a church in Ubley, in the county of Somerset, who was ejected in 1662.
Wettenhall, Edward
A Practical & Plain Discourse of the Form of Godliness, Visible in the Present Age, & of the Power of Godliness: How and when it obtains, how denied or oppressed and how to be instated or recovered, with some advices to all that pretend to the power of godliness (Dublin: Ray, 1683) 183 pp. ToC
Wettenhall (1636–1713) was an English bishop of the Church of Ireland. He was for submitting to the Glorious Revolution (1689), against the opposition of Jacobites, and was a moderate on concessions to Christian dissenters. In his will he affirms the church of England and Ireland to be “the purest church in the world”, though “there are divers points which might be altered for the better” in “articles, liturgy, and discipline, but especially in the conditions of clerical communion.”
Two Discourses for the furtherance of Christian Piety & Devotion, the former asserting the necessity and reasonableness of a positive worship, and particularly of the Christian: the latter considering the common hinderances of devotion and the divine worship, with their respective remedies (London: 1671) 379 pp. ToC
Enter into thy Closet, or a Method & Order for Private Devotion: a treatise endeavoring a plain discovery of the most spiritual and edifying course of reading, meditation and prayer; and so of self-examination, humiliation, mortification and such most necessary Christian duties, by which we sue out the pardon of our sins from Heaven and maintain an holy converse with God (London: Martyn, 1666) 312 pp. ToC
Collyrium, a Sermon of Destructive Ignorance & Saving Knowledge… (London: Rooks, 1672) 32 pp. ToC
Six Sermons preached in Ireland in Difficult Times (London: Whitwood, 1695) ToC
A Sermon touching the Divine Right & Due Observation of the Lord’s
Day… (Dublin: Ray, 1697) 44 pp. ToC
The Protestant Peacemaker, or a Seasonable persuasive to all serious Christians who call themselves Protestants, that laying aside calumnies and all exasperating disputes, they would pursue charity, peace and union as the only means (now left us) of safety and reformation of the public manners: with a postscript, or notes on Mr. Baxter’s and some others late writings for peace (London: Clavell, 1682) 131 pp. ToC
Be Ye also Ready: a Method & Order of Practice to be Always Prepared for Death & Judgment, through the Several Stages of Life (London: Bentley, 1694) 220 pp. ToC
Moody, Joshua – A Practical Discourse concerning the Choice Benefit of Communion with God in his House witnessed unto by the Experience of Saints as the best improvement of time: being the sum of several sermons on Ps. 84:10… (Boston: Pierce, 1685) 109 pp. ToC
Moody (1633-1697) was a Harvard graduate and a congregational minister in New Hampshire and Boston.
Watson, Thomas
A Body of Practical Divinity (d. 1686) 790 pp. ToC EEBO being lectures on the Westminster Shorter Catechism
Watson (c. 1620 – 1686) was an English, nonconformist, puritan and presbyterian minister and author.
Religion our True Interest, or Practical Notes upon the Third Chapter of Malachi, the Sixteenth, Seventeenth & Eighteenth Verses, seasonable for the times (London: 1682) 231 pp. ToC
Clarkson, David – The Practical Works of, vol. 1, 2, 3 (Edinburgh: Nichol, 1864) ToC 1, 2, 3
Clarkson was a congregationalist puritan and the successor to the pulpit of John Owen.
Scrivener, Matthew – The Method & Means to a True Spiritual Life, consisting of three parts, agreeable to the Ancient Way (d. before 1688; London: Knapton, 1688) 399 pp. ToC
Scrivener (fl. 1660; d. before 1688) was an Anglican divine. The three parts are: 1. Spiritual illumination, 2. Purgation, 3. Union with God.
Gammon, John – Christ a Christian’s Life: or a Practical Discourse of a Believer’s Life derived from Christ, and resolved into Christ, being the substance of several sermons… (London: J.R., 1691) 374 pp. ToC
AI: Gammon was an English, particular baptist minister who served in Whitechapel, London. He was the minister at the church were John Bunyan preached his final sermon before dying. This work was later reprinted in America.
Smith, Lawrence – Conversation [Conduct] in Heaven, being Devotions consisting of Meditations & Prayers on Several Considerable Subjects in Practical Divinity… (London: J.R., 1693) 346 pp. ToC
Lawrence (1656-1728), a fellow of St. John’s College, Oxford, was a religious author and had a doctorate in law. Little else is known about his life.
Heywood, Oliver – Advice to an Only Child, or Excellent Counsel to All Young Persons, containing the Sum & Substance of Experimental & Practical Divinity (London: Parkhurst, 1693) 173 pp. ToC
Kettlewell, John
Five Discourses on so many very Important Points of Practical Religion (London: Chruchil, 1696) 170 pp. ToC
Kettlewell (1653–1695) was an Anglican clergyman, nonjuror and devotional writer.
The Practical Believer, or the Articles of the Apostles’ Creed drawn out to Form a True Christian’s Heart & Practice… (London: Kettlewell, 1688) 361 pp. ToC
Scott, John – Practical Discourses upon Several Subjects, vol. 1, 2 (d. 1695; London: Kettilby, 1697-1698) ToC 1, 2
Scott (1639-1695) was an English clergyman, known as a devotional writer and a defender of Anglican orthodoxy in his preaching.
Stafford, John
Practical Discourses on Sundry Texts of Scripture wherein is showed and made known the absolute necessity for all people to turn immediately unto the Lord their God (London: Simpson, 1695) 317 pp. ToC
Stafford (1663–1703), trained in law (though “he applied himself more to divinity than to common law”), was a pamphleteer and a rabid Jacobite (one who would not give allegiance to the Glorious Revolution). He defends evangelical feast days in one work (after the Revolution), and hence, with what is aforementioned, he likely leaned toward episcopacy. His writings evidence him looking forward to an earthly millennium of Gospel-prosperity and earthly peace.
For more works, see “Practical Books written and published by Richard Stafford”.
The Exceeding Great Comfort & Benefit of having walked before God in Truth & with a Perfect Heart, and of having done that which is good in his sight: set forth in several discourses on Isa. 38:2-3 (London: Simpson, 1699) 110 pp. ToC
The Nature of God’s Kingdom & Dominion over Men: clearly laid open and explained… a Discourse on Dt. 8:2… (London: 1697) 40 pp. ToC
Dt. 8:2, “And thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whither thou wouldest keep his commandments or no.”
The Cause & Cure of Divisions: or the Way & Means for all Christians (however they are distinguished or named) to come to Unity: Demonstrated and pointed out from the Scriptures of Truth (London: 1699) 16 pp. ToC
Of Happiness, wherein it is fully and particularly manifested that the greatest happiness of this life consists in the fear of God and keeping his commandments, in opposition to the pleasures of sin or the pretended conveniency of disobedience (London: Sowle, 1689) 711 pp. ToC
Sermon 1 on Phil. 4:11 [“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content”] (London: 1698) 24 pp. ToC
A Sermon on 1 Chron. 29:18 [“O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, our fathers: keep this forever in the intent of the thoughts of the heart of Your people and fix their heart toward You”]… wherein also is showed what it is to teach for hire and divine for money… (London: Tracy, 1697) 22 pp. ToC
A Sermon preached unto the Inhabitants of the Town of Thornbury… [on Ps. 143:8] (London, 1698) 35 pp. ToC
Ps. 143:8, “Cause me to hear thy loving kindness in the morning, for in Thee do I trust: Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk, for I lift up my soul unto Thee.”
[Sermon on:] “Surely every man walks in a vain show: surely they are disquieted in vain; he heaps up riches and knows not who shall gather them.” Ps. 39:6 (London: 1700) 29 pp. ToC
Some Thoughts of the Life to Come, with a brief account of the State of Religion as it is now in the World (London: 1693) 78 pp. ToC
The Doctrine of the Cross, or the Duty of Christian Suffering: as it is necessary and subservient in order to the obtaining eternal salvation, delivered in a sermon on Mt. 13:20-21 (London: 1697) 31 pp. ToC
A Sermon on 2 Cor. 2:11 [“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us, for we are not ignorant of his devices”] (London: Simpson, 1698) 32 pp. ToC
The Necessity of keeping still unto the Ordinances of Religion, Prayer, Hearing the Word, Baptism & the Lord’s Supper: set forth in a sermon… Acts 6:4, wherein is also laid open and manifested the error of those people (commonly called Quakers) who do neglect the two latter (London, 1698) 30 pp. ToC
Six Several Sermons preached on Isa. 38:1, wherein that great duty of setting our body and soul in order, for we shall die, is at large opened and explained (London: Simpson, 1696) 158 pp. ToC
[On the Inevitability of Death:] Jer. 6:4, “Woe unto us, for the day goes away, for the shadows of the evening are stretched out.” (London: 1700) 23 pp. ToC
Divine Arithmetic Illustrated in the Right & Exact Numbering of our Days, or a Discourse of the near and continued approaches of death unto every one whatsoever: with… 1 Cor. 15… to be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord (London: Whitlock, 1697) 18 pp. ToC
A Discourse on the Extensiveness & Comprehensiveness of Future Judgment of God… (London: 1699) 16 pp. ToC
A Discourse of the Misery of Hell & Happiness of Heaven, grounded from the following words, Mt. 25:46… (London: 1697) 16 pp. ToC
Rules & Directions for the preventing of, and Recovery out of Sickness
A Discourse against Partial Obedience: or that Dangerous Deceit so Universal amongst them who call themselves Christians, of keeping some of the Commandments of God and neglecting others
The Great Benefits of Christ to all that believe on and obey Him: being a Treatise on Heb. 2:15, wherein it is showed… how people may be freed and delivered from that slavish fear of death, whereby they are subject to bondage throughout their lifetime…
A Sermon on 1 Chron, 29:18, and another on Mk. 8:36
Mk. 8:36, “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”
A Discourse of God’s Hearing Prayer, Grounded from Jn. 9:31…
A Sermon Preached… on Ps. 143:8
Three several Discourses on Rom. 9:6, “Not as though the word of God has taken none effect: For they are not all Israel which are of Israel.”
Two Discourses on Col. 3:1, and another on Acts 2:11
Col. 3:1, “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.”
Acts 2:11, “both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.”
Howe, John & William Bates – Select Practical Theology of the Seventeenth Century… vol. 1 ed. James Marsh (Burlington: Goodrich, 1830) 550 pp. no ToC Only one volume of the projected five was ever published.
This includes Howe’s The Blessedness of the Righteous and The Vanity of Man as Mortal, and Bates’s Discourses on the Four Last Things (Resurrection, Judgment, Heaven, Hell).
van Mastricht, Peter
Theoretical-Practical Theology
Theoretical-Practical Theology 2nd ed. (Utrecht: Appels, 1699) tr. AI Faith Received Latin 1, 2
van Mastricht (1630–1706) was a Dutch reformed, puritan theologian and professor. He was opposed to Cartesianism and Cocceianism.
The fourth (last) section of every chapter is devoted to practically applying the doctrinal topic at hand. These sections are some of the best in reformed practical theology.
Theoretical-Practical Theology, 7 vols. 2nd ed. Buy (1698; RHB, 2018 ff.)
Manlove, Timothy – Præparatio evangelica, or a Plain & Practical Discourse concerning the Soul’s Preparation for a Blessed Eternity, being the substance of several sermons… (London: Simmons, 1698) 175 pp. ToC
Manlove (d. 1699) was a presbyterian divine and physician. William Tong classed Manlove with Baxter for his “clear, weighty way of writing.”
Fraser of Brea, James – Meditations on Several Subjects in Divinity: particularly trusting upon God, hungering and thirsting after Christ, the power, evil and vileness of sin, the combat between the flesh and the spirit, with several other subjects: and some choice practical observations throughout the whole (d. 1699; Edinburgh: Macky, 1721) 204 pp. no ToC
Fraser (1639–1699) was a late, resisting Scottish covenanter who was imprisoned in the dungeons of the Bass Rock and Blackness Castle.
Norris, John
Practical Discourses upon Several Divine Subjects (London: Manship, 1691) 350 pp. ToC
Practical Discourses upon the Beatitudes of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (London: Manship, 1699) 255 pp. ToC This says it is vol. 1, but it is not clear there is a vol. 2.
Norris (1657–1712) was an English theologian, philosopher and poet, associated with the Cambridge Platonists.
Bragge, Francis
Practical Discourses upon the Parables of our Blessed Saviour, vol. 1, 2 (London: Manship, 1694 / 1711) ToC 1, 2
Bragge (1664–1728) was an Anglican clergyman and religious author, best known for his practical devotional writings and for his vigorous defense of the reality of witchcraft during the celebrated Jane Wenham case of 1712.
Practical Observations upon the Miracles of our Blessed Saviour, vol. 1, 2 3rd ed. (London: Innys, 1719) ToC 1, 2
Of Undissembled & Persevering Religion: in Several Sermons… (London: Wyat, 1713) 420 pp. ToC
A Practical Treatise of the Regulation of the Passions (London: Wyat, 1708) 425 pp. ToC
A Minister’s Counsel to the Youth of his Parish when arrived to Years of Discretion… (London: Wellington, 1699) 214 pp. ToC
Burkitt, William – The Poor Man’s Help & Young Man’s Guide, containing: I. Doctrinal instructions for the right informing of his judgment, II. Practical directions for the general course of his life, III. Particular advices for the well-managing of every day: with reference to his: 1. Natural actions, 2. Civil employments, 3. Necessary recreations, 4. Religious duties… unto which is added an earnest exhortation unto all Christians to the love and practice of universal holiness (London: Parkhurst, 1694) 80 pp. ToC
Burkitt (1650–1703) was an Anglican clergyman, biblical expositor and educational pioneer.
Alsop, Vincent – Decus & Tutamen, or Practical Godliness the Ornament & Muniment [Legal Deed] of all Religion, being the subject of several sermons (London: Barnes, 1696) 131 pp. ToC
Payne, William – Discourses upon Several Practical Subjects (d. 1696; London: J.O., 1698) 371 pp. ToC
Payne (1650–1696) was an Anglican cleric and academic, known as a controversialist.
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1700’s
Ellis, Clement
The Scripture Catechist: or the Whole Religion of a Christian, being a full explanation of the [Anglican] Church Catechism, containing a comprehensive body of practical divinity, for the use of families (d. 1700; London: Rivington, 1738) 505 pp. no ToC
Ellis (1630–1700) was an Anglican clergyman and divine, and a poet. See also his other works in the bibliography at the bottom of the DNB article on him and his works at IA.
Christianity in Short, or the Way to be a Good Christian… (London, 1682) 68 pp. no ToC
The Necessity of Serious Consideration & Speedy Repentance as the only Way to be Safe both Living & Dying (London: Rogers, 1691) 205 pp. no ToC
Three Discourses: one on the Parable of Dives & Lazarus, the second on that of the Unjust Steward, and the third, on that of the Ten Virgins (London: Simmons, 1704)
à Brakel, Wilhelmus – The Christian’s Reasonable Service, vols. 1 (God, Man, Christ), 2 (Church, Salvation, Ordo Salutis, Sacraments), 3 (Salvation, 10 Commandments, Lord’s Prayer), 4 (Salvation, Virtues, Satan, Perseverance, Last Things, Covenant of Grace) ed. Joel Beeke, tr. Bartel Elshout (1700; RHB, 1992/1999) The first volume has a brief ToC for all four volumes at the beginning. Each volume has a detailed ToC near the beginning. Indices are at the end of vol. 4.
This is a very practical systematic theology. A Brakel (1635-1711) was a contemporary of Voet and Witsius and was a major representative of the Dutch Further Reformation.
Henry, Matthew – The Miscellaneous Works of the Rev. Matthew Henry 2 vols. in 1 (London: Robinson, 1830) 1,450 pp. ToC
This includes The Pleasantness of a Religious Life, A Meek & Quiet Spirit, Communicant’s Companion (to taking the Supper), Directions for Daily Communion with God, A Church in the House (on family religion), A Method for Prayer and many more practical pieces.
Doolittle, Thomas – A Complete Body of Practical Divinity, being a New Improvement of the [Westminster] Assembly’s Catechism: wherein the truths and duties of Christianity are applied to the conscience in a most serious and pathetic manner, written with a design to revive dying religion in the family and closet, the Church and the world (d. 1707; London: Clark, 1723) 665 pp. ToC
Doolittle (1632?–1707) was an English nonconformist minister, tutor and author.
“This had been delivered at his Wednesday lectures in Monkwell Street, and was printed after his death. He catechized the youth and adults of his congregation every Lord’s Day.” – W. Carruthers
Beveridge, William – Private Thoughts… Part 1: Upon Religion… with practical resolutions formed thereupon. Part 2: Upon a Christian life, or necessary directions for its beginning and progress upon earth in order to its final perfection in the beatific vision (London: Mozley, 1817) 335 pp. ToC
Doddridge, Philip – The Rise & Progress of Religion in the Soul, Illustrated in a Course of Serious & Practical Addresses… (1745; Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1843) 325 pp. ToC
Doddridge (1702–1751) was an English congregationalist, nonconformist minister, educator and hymn-writer. Spurgeon referred to this work as “that holy book”.
Willison, John – The Practical Works of the Rev. John Willison (Glasgow: Blackie & Son, n.d.) 980 pp. ToC
Erskine, Ralph – The Sermons & Other Practical Works of, vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 (d. 1752; London: Tegg, 1865) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Erskine, Ebenezer – Whole Works of, consisting of Sermons & Discourses, vol. 1, 2, 3 (Edinburgh: Ogle & Murray, 1871) ToC 1, 2, 3
Mason, John – The Lord’s Day Evening Entertainment, containing Fifty-Two Practical Discourses on the most Serious & Important Subjects in Divinity, intended for the use of Families, vol. 1, 2, 3, 4 2nd ed. (London: Buckland, 1754) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4
Moncrieff, Alexander – The Practical Works of, vol. 1, 2 (d. 1761; Edinburgh: Alston, 1779) ToC 1, 2
Practical Preacher: consisting of Select Discourses from Works of the Most Eminent Protestant Writers… vol. 1, 2, 3, 4 (London: Becket, 1762) ToC 1, 2, 3, 4
The authors are from the late-1600’s and 1700’s, and come from the Anglican establishment (including with rational theology), puritan and non-conformist protestantism, Irish presbyterianism and protestant dissent, and Irish Anglicanism.
Witherspoon, John – Sermons on Practical Subjects… (Glasgow: Duncan, 1768) 325 pp. ToC
Anon. – Theological & Practical Divinity: with Extracts of Several Treatises written by Jakob Böhme, The Parable of a Pilgrim, taken from an ancient author, and diverse other tracts taken from different authors (London: 1769) 400 pp. ToC
Böhme (1575–1624) was a German, Lutheran Protestant theologian, Christian mystic and a philosopher.
Gill, John – A Body of Practical Divinity, or a System of Practical Truths deduced from the Sacred Scriptures in Doctrinal & Practical Divinity, vol. 3 (London: Keith, 1770) 515 pp. ToC
Langhorne, William – Sermons on Practical Subjects & the Most Useful Points of Divinity, vol. 1, 2 (London: Dilly, 1773) ToC 1, 2
Orton, Job – The Practical Works of, vol. 1, 2 (d. 1783; London: Tegg, 1842) ToC 1, 2
Orton (1717-1783), a student of Philip Doddridge, was an English, presbyterian, dissenting minister.
Wikipedia: “He was deeply read in Puritan divinity, and adopted Sabellian doctrines on the Trinity. Old-fashioned in most of his views, he disliked the tendencies alike of the Methodists and other revivalists and of the rationalizing dissenters…”
Brown of Haddington, John – An Essay Towards an Easy, Plain, Practical & Extensive Explication of the [Westminster] Assembly’s Shorter Catechism 8th ed., ed. Ebenezer Brown (d. 1787; Edinburgh: J. Ogle, 1812) 380 pp. ToC
Brown (1722-1787) was a Scottish secession minister and professor.
Venn, Henry
The Complete Duty of Man: or a System of Doctrinal & Practical Christianity, designed for the Use of Families ()
Venn ()
Mistakes in Religion Exposed: an Essay on the Prophecy of Zacharias ()
Strong, Nathan – Sermons on Various Subjects: Doctrinal, Experimental & Practical, vol. 1, 2 (Hartford: Hudson, 1798 & 1800) ToC 1, 2
Strong was a presbyterian pastor in Hartford, Connecticut.
“Of those who have never been brought to feel their unholy and guilty hearts… Such persons, from motives of this world, may be regular in their manners and in a visible attendance on many religious institutions. They are friends to every thing in religion but the experimental and evangelical part of it in the heart.—Having never seen their own unholy, guilty want of a supreme love of God, they depend for eternal safety, on their visible regularity and the general mercy of God through a Saviour.”
“‘My son, give me thy heart.’ Our love of God ought to be with all the heart. As the abounding of infidelity, justifies an attempt to show the reasonableness of christian doctrines ; so the neglect of vital and experimental practice, requires us to show the danger of a general declension in this respect, and that many, whose doctrines are right, are perishing through want of obedience in heart.”
“Many appear to have an apprehension, that religion is something designed only for the benefit of another world. That if we can have it at the time of death, the whole which religion can give will be attained. Such an idea arises from an utter experimental ignorance what religion is. True religion is the most perfect blessedness of rational beings, in every possible state of existence ; in this world, at death and through eternity. By the present comforts of religion, a pious mind obtains the highest conviction, that it is impossible there should be a state of perfect blessedness, without a holy temper and practice.”
.
1800’s
Jarratt, Devereux – Sermons on Various & Important Subjects in Practical Divinity (d. 1801; Raleigh, NC: Glendinning, 1805) 450 pp. ToC
Jarratt (1733–1801), converted by presbyterians, was a rector in Virginia and the most influential evangelical leader in Virginia’s Anglican Church in the eighteenth century. Jarratt saw himself as called by God to preach a “vital religion” to “unawakened” people such as the religiously complacent Virginians who had raised him. He emulated the Methodism of John Wesley and initiated a religious revival throughout North Carolina and southern Virginia. When the first Methodist preachers appeared, Jarratt was one of the few Anglican clergymen who gave them full cooperation, even administering the sacraments to their new converts. But when the American Methodists separated from the Anglicans in 1784 and formed the Methodist Episcopal Church, Jarratt became alienated from them. He also opposed the Methodists’ strict condemnation of slavery.
Proudfit, Alexander – Practical Godliness: in Thirteen Discourses, on the Duties of the Closet, & Family & Sanctuary (Salem: Dodd, 1813) 400 pp. ToC
Proudfit (1770–1843) was an American, Associate Reformed Presbyterian minister in New York, a chaplain and a classical scholar.
McLeod, Alexander – The Life & Power of True Godliness, described in a Series of Discourses (1813; NY: Eastburn, 1816) 420 pp. ToC
McLeod (1774-1833), born in Scotland, was a Reformed Presbyterian minister in New York.
Various – The New-Jersey Preacher: or Sermons on Plain & Practical Subjects, vol. 1 (Trenton, N.J.: D. Fenton, 1813) 460 pp. ToC
McEwen, William – Select Essays, Doctrinal & Practical, on a Variety of the Most Important & Interesting Subjects in Divinity, including fourteen new essays on the Perfections of God (2 vols. in 1) 8th ed. (d. 1762; Salem, NY: J. Stevenson, Jr., 1814) 335 pp. ToC
McEwen (1735-1762) was a Scottish, Seceder minister in Dundee. Associate Congregation in Dundee, Scotland. He studied divinity under Ebenezer Erskine and James Fisher, leading Seceders. A volume of his works (which appears to be this one) has recently been republished, being edited by Gordon J. Keddie and commended by notable contemporary persons.
Practical Sermons for every Sunday in the Year, vol. 1, 2, 3 3rd ed. (London, 1818)
Green, Ashbel – Practical Sermons (1831)
Nevins, Williams – Practical Thoughts (1831)
Belfrage, Henry – A Practical Exposition of the Assembly’s Shorter Catechism: Exhibiting a System of Theology in a Popular Form, & Particularly Adapted for Family Instruction, vols. 1 (Q. 1-52), 2 (Q. 53-End) (Edinburgh: William Oliphant, 1834) no ToC Index
Belfrage (1774–1835) was an orthodox Scottish secessionist minister.
Alexander, Archibald
Thoughts on Religious Experience (Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1841) 320 pp. ToC
This is a classic on the subject. Alexander was the first professor of old Princeton Seminary.
Practical Sermons, to Be Read in Families & Social Meetings (1850)
Practical Truths (NY: American Tract Society, 1857) 414 pp. ToC
Alexander is very skillful at making short simple illustrations come alive with profound spiritual truth that moves the soul. This is a collection of numerous shorter pieces, many of which were tracts.
ed. Memes, T.S. – The Christian Treasury: a Selection of Standard Treatises on Subjects of Doctrinal & Practical Christianity… (London: Bohn: 1844) 535 pp. ToC
Griffin, Edward D.
Sixty Sermons on Practical Subjects (1844)
Sermons, Not Before Published, on Various Practical Subjects (NY: Dodd, 1844) 330 pp. ToC
Griffin was a reformed congregationalist minister in Connecticut.
These sermons are excellent and are not included in his more well-known, Life & Sermons, 2 vols.
Banner of Truth: “Edward Dorr Griffin (1770-1837) ministered in the remarkable era which, for forty years from 1792, saw a succession of powerful revivals in the north-east of the United States. At at a time when thousands were being added to the Kingdom of God, ‘Probably the labors of no preacher were blessed to the conversion of more souls than were his’ says Dr. Hopkins…
…Men–‘awed by the majesty of a present God’–are in the background. Here is no record of the production of converts by means of ‘revivalism’, but the outpouring of the Holy Spirit which (as Griffin says of Newark) ‘deluged the whole place’, with no means used save ‘clear and earnest presentation of Divine truth, and believing persevering prayer’. Griffin’s sermons, even without the deep emotion which so accompanied their delivery, are fine examples of the simple, arresting and heart-searching preaching which was so used of God.”
The Scottish Pulpit: a Series of Sermons by the most eminent Divines of the Scottish Church, forming a Complete Body of Practical Divinity, vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 22nd ed. (Aberdeen: King, 1845) ToC by Author 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Practical Sermons by Dignitaries & other Clergymen of the United Church of England & Ireland, vol. 1, 2, 3 (Z., 1845-1848)
Winslow, Octavius
Plumer, William – Vital Godliness: a Treatise on Experimental & Practical Piety (NY: American Tract Society, 1864) 615 pp. ToC
Plumer was an American, Southern Presbyterian.
Ch. 1: “He who has never exercised faith, repentance, love, humility, hope, and joy, cannot be profited by his theories and speculations on these subjects. All knowledge which is unfelt and inoperative puffs up the mind and hardens the heart. It is better to have the workings of gracious affections than to be able to define them, or to speak ever so learnedly respecting them. The great use of a large part of divine truth is rightly to affect our minds and hearts, and so to control our practice.
…In many cases ministers preach a low experience. The consequence is painful laxity in religious practice…”
See the choice quotes by Baxter, Owen, Newton and others on pp. 9-12.
van Oosterzee, J.J. – Practical Theology: a Manual for Theological Students tr. Maurice Evans in Theological & Philosophical Library (London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1878) 635 pp. ToC
Oosterzee (1817–1882) was an orthodox Dutch professor of systematic theology at the University of Utrecht.
Ryle, J.C.
Practical Religion (London: Hunt, 1883) 500 pp. ToC
Holiness 200 pp.
Miller, J. R. – Practical Religion: a Help for the Common Days (1888)
Bertram, R.A. – A Homiletic Encyclopedia of Illustrations in Theology & Morals: a Handbook of Practical Divinity & a Commentary on Holy Scripture (NY: Funk & Wagnalls, 1889) 900 pp. Indices: Subject, Scripture
Though this work contains choice literary extracts arranged under topical headings in alphabetical order for homiletic purposes, yet as the topics are mainly headings of practical theology, so it is a valuable resource for this purpose.
Watson, John – The Cure of Souls: Yale Lectures on Practical Theology, 1896 (London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1896) 250 pp. ToC
This is mainly pastoral theology.
.
1900’s
Chapell, F.L. – Biblical & Practical Theology 2nd ed. (NY: Christian Alliance Publishing, 1901) 315 pp. ToC
Chapell was an original and longtime trainer of missionaries for the Christian and Missionary Alliance. He worked hand-in-hand with James M. Gray, who would become a president of Moody Bible Institute.
Schenck, Ferdinand S. – Modern Practical Theology: a Manual of Homiletics, Liturgics, Poimenics [Shepherding], Archagics [Church administration], Pedagogy, Sociology & the English Bible (NY: Funk & Wagnalls Co., 1903) 315 pp. ToC
Schenck (1845-1925) was a professor of practical theology at the Theological Seminary of the Reformed Church in America (New Brunswick, N.J.).
Various – Baker’s Dictionary of Practical Theology ed. Ralph G. Turnbull (Baker, 1967) 490 pp. ToC
Cyril Barber: “A comprehensive reference book covering virtually every aspect of practical theology. Helpful bibliographies included at the end of each division.”
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2000’s
Martin, Al – ‘The Practical Implications of Calvinism’ in Reformed Perspectives Magazine, vol. 9, no. 9 (Feb-Mar, 2007) 14 pp.
Osmer, Richard R. – Practical Theology: an Introduction (Eerdmans, 2008) 245 pp. ToC
Publisher: “Every church congregation encounters challenging situations, some the same the world over, and others specific to each church… Osmer here seeks to teach congregational leaders… the requisite knowledge and skills to meet such situations with sensitivity and creativity… focusing on four key questions: What is going on in a given context? Why is this going on? What ought to be going on? and How might the leader shape the context to better embody Christian witness and mission?”
Kreeft, Peter – Practical Theology: Spiritual Direction from St. Thomas Aquinas: 358 Ways Your Mind can Help you to become a Saint, from the Summa Theologiae (Ignatius Press, 2014) 750 pp.
Kreeft is a Roman Catholic professor of philosophy, apologist, writer and is a Thomist.
eds. van der Walt, Sarel & Nico Vorster – Reformed Theology Today: Practical-Theological, Missiological & Ethical Perspectives (Aosis, 2017) 225 pp. ToC
This volume is comprised of chapters from international academics.
.
A Library of Practical Theology
1700’s
Wesley, John – A Christian Library: consisting of Extracts from & abridgments of the Choicest Pieces of Practical Divinity which have been published in the English Tongue, vols. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 HTML (1749; London: Cordeux, 1819)
This is an anthology. Large extracts from the best practical works from Church history are given in full, in roughly chronological order.
1 – Early Church; John Arndt, ‘True Christianity’
2 – John Fox, ‘Book of Martyrs’
3 – Fox; Samuel Clark, ‘Supplement to Fox’s Martyrology’
4 – Clark; Bishop Hall; Robert Bolton
5 – Bolton; John Preston
6 – Preston; Richard Sibbes; Thomas Goodwin
7 – Goodwin; William Dell; Thomas Manton; Isaac Ambrose
8 – Ambrose, ‘Looking unto Jesus’
9 – Ambrose; Jeremy Taylor;
10 – Nathaniel Culverwell; John Owen
11 – Owen; John Smith
12 – Smith; Bishop Sanderson
13 – Sanderson; John Worthington; Bishop Ken
14 – Joseph Alleine; Samuel Shaw; Shorter Catechism
15 – Samuel Clark, ‘The Lives of…’
16 – Clark; Rutherford, ‘Letters’; Anthony Horneck
17 – Hugh Binning; Matthew Hale; Simon Patrick
18 – Patrick; Richard Alleine
19 – Dr. Cave; John Bunyan
20 – Cowley; Dr. Goodman; Robert Leighton; Bishop Beveridge
21 – Isaac Barrow; John Brown; Matthew Poole
22 – Richard Baxter
23 – Tract; Molinos; Henry Moore; Stephen Charnock; Dr. Calamy; Henry Scougal
24 – Dr. Annesly; Richard Lucas
25 – Edward Reynolds
26 – Dr. R. South; E. Young; Howe; Juan D’avila; Parson
27 – Tillotson; John Flavel; Henry Hammond
28 – John Howe; Phillip Henry; George Trosse; John Eliot
29 – Lives of; Joseph Alleine; August Franck
30 – Norris; Johnathan Edwards
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Arminian Works
1600’s
Allestree, Richard
The Practice of Christian Graces, or the Whole Duty of Man, laid down in a plain and familiar way for the use of all… (London: Maxwell, 1658) 652 pp. ToC
Allestree (1621/22 – 1681) was an English, royalist, Arminian churchman, and a provost of Eton College from 1665.
The Causes of the Decay of Christian Piety, or an Impartial Survey of the Ruins of Christian Religion undermined by Unchristian Practice (London: Norton, 1667) 439 pp. ToC
Pelling, Edward
A Practical Discourse upon the Blessed Sacrament, showing the duties of the communicant before, at and after the Eucharist (London: Crook, 1692) 263 pp. ToC
Pelling (baptised 1640 – d. 1718) was an Anglican cleric and academic, a significant author in the first generation of High churchmen. Pelling also has a Practical Discourse concerning God’s Love to Mankind, but in it he appears not to rise even so high as an Arminian.
A Practical Discourse concerning the Redeeming of Time (London: 1695) 110 pp. ToC
A Practical Discourse upon Charity in its Several Branches & of the Reasonableness & Useful Nature of this great Christian Virtue (London: Crooke, 1693) 292 pp. ToC
A Practical Discourse upon Humility, wherein is shown the Nature, Reasonableness & Usefulness thereof: together with the ways of expressing and increasing it (London: Crooke, 1694) 198 pp. ToC
A Practical Discourse upon Prayer (London: Jones, 1693) 65 pp. ToC
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1700’s
van Limborch, Philip – A Complete System, or Body of Divinity: both Speculative & Practical, Founded on Scripture & Reason, vol. 1, 2 (1702; London: Darby, 1713) Ext ToC 1, 2 Indices: Subject, Text
Limborch (1633-1712). “The first system of divinity according to Arminianism.” – Howard Malcom
Brief ToC
bk. 1, Scripture 1.1
bk. 2, God & his Works 1.46
bk. 3, Redemption 1.181
bk. 4, Predestination 1.342
bk. 5, Precepts of New Covenant 2.451
bk. 6, Promises & Threatenings in General 2.822
bk. 7, Church 2.881-1019
Law, William – A Serious Call to a Devout & Holy Life, adapted to the State & Condition of All Orders of Christians (1726; London: Farran, 1893) 285 pp. ToC
Law (1686–1761) was an Anglican minister and spiritual writer. He is is sometimes considered a second-generation non-juror in political matters (one who would not give allegiance to the English monarch since the Glorious Revolution of 1689).
His personal integrity, together with his mystical and theological writings, made him one of the most influential religious voices of his age, shaping both the evangelistic movement and the thought of Enlightenment figures such as the writer Samuel Johnson and the historian Edward Gibbon. In 1784, William Wilberforce (1759–1833), the politician, philanthropist, and leader of the movement to stop the slave trade, was deeply touched by reading A Serious Call.
Preface: “With the exception of the Pilgrims Progress, there is no religious book in the English language which has had a stronger influence than Law’s Serious Call… Living in a worldly and rationalistic age, Law was a man of saintly character and the deepest religious fervor…
To the same work [A Serious Call] John Wesley attributed the religious movement which bears his name. So did Bishop [William] Warburton, who said, “Mr. Wm. Law begat Methodism.” Henry Venn, and Thomas Scott the Commentator, both attributed to it their own first religious impressions.”
This work is notable (in a not-good way) for its lack of emphasis, and near-absence, of speaking of Christ’s atonement, which ought to be a primary motivation and power for a devout life. What he does say on the topic is problematic, denying penal, substitutionary atonement (p. 187).
C.Bigg: “Flying to the opposite extreme from that Calvinism which had wrought such havoc in Church and State, he sedulously eliminated from our Lord’s Passion the idea of vicarious suffering; and therefore what he preached was always self-denial and never self-sacrifice.”
Stackhouse, Thomas
A Complete Body of Speculative & Practical Divinity… the whole extracted from the Best Ancient & Modern Writers, but chiefly from the works of such as have been reputed the most able divines and celebrated preachers amongst us 3rd ed. (Author, 1743) 990 pp. ToC
Stackhouse (1677–1752) was a schoolmaster and an Anglican clergyman and controversialist.
A System of Practical Duties, Moral & Evangelical rev. (London: Hinton, 1760) 329 pp. ToC
This is the fifth part of Stackhouse’s Complete Body of Speculative & Practical Divinity.
A New & Practical Exposition of the Apostles’ Creed (1747)
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1800’s
Thornton, Thomas C. – Theological Colloquies, or a Compendium of Christian Divinity, Speculative & Practical, founded on Scripture & Reason… to obtain and communicate a knowledge of true piety (Baltimore: Lewis & Coleman, 1837) 735 pp. ToC
Thornton (1794–1860) was an American Methodist (of the Arminian suasion), writer, minister and educator. Thornton was president of Centenary College of Louisiana from 1841 to 1844.
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Works of Romanists & Against Romanism
Romanists
1500’s
Arias Montano, Benito – The Practical Rule of Christian Piety, containing the Sum of the Whole Duty of a True Disciple of Christ tr. A. Lovel (London: Hindmarsh, 1685) 244 pp. ToC
Montano (1527–1598) was a Spanish orientalist and polymath who was active mostly in Spain. He was also editor of the Antwerp Polyglot. He reached the high rank of Royal Chaplain to King Philip II of Spain.
“The whole Christian discipline then may be comprehended under two general heads, which every true disciple and follower of Christ ought to know and dutifully practice. The first is to believe the Word and promises of God, the authority whereof has been confirmed by signs, miracles and manifest testimonies…
The second head and branch of doctrine is the knowledge and practice of piety, of which at present we are to treat. Now, for illustration sake, we call piety all that which every faithful disciple and follower of Christ and the Christian doctrine, believing the promises, ought to know, hold fast and practice…” – pp. 38-41
“The sum then of all that a scholar of Christ ought to know, hold, meditate upon and practice, is briefly comprehended under these three heads, to wit, the fear of the Lord, repentance and charity. Now charity is not here considered only as it relates to God, whom we ought to love above all things, but also as it is to be practiced towards men.” – pp. 156-57
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1600’s
Jenks, Silvester – Practical Discourses upon the Morality of the Gospel (London: 1699) 194 pp. ToC
Jenks (c. 1656 – 1714) was an English Catholic priest and theologian.
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1800’s
Reeve, Joseph – Practical Discourses on the Perfections & Wonderful Works of God: & on the Divinity & Wonderful Works of Jesus Christ (d. 1820; Baltimore: F. Lucas, 1850) 455 pp. ToC
Reeve (1733-1820) was an English, Jesuit, biblical scholar and Latin poet.
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Against
1600’s
Clarkson, David – The Practical Divinity of the Papists, Discovered to be Destructive of Christianity & Men’s Souls (d. 1686) 264 pp. ToC in Practical Works, vol. 3 separate pagination
Clarkson (1622-1686) was a congregationalist puritan and successor of John Owen. This work is eye-opening; skim the table of contents.
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Historical
On the Post-Reformation
ed. Wengert, Timothy – The Pastoral Luther: Essays on Martin Luther’s Practical Theology (Eerdmans, 2009) 380 pp. ToC
Parker, Kenneth & Eric Carlson – ‘Practical Divinity’: The Works & Life of Revd Richard Greenham Pre (Routledge, 2016) 424 pp. ToC
Greenham (1535?–1594?) was a partially-conforming, puritan, English clergyman.
“Richard Greenham was one of the most important and respected figures among the Elizabethan clergy. His contemporaries described him as the founder of a previously unknown pastoral art: the cure of cases of conscience. Despite his fame in the Elizabethan period as a model pastor, pioneer in reformed casuistry, and founder of one of the first rectory seminaries, scholars have made little use of his life and works in their study of Elizabethan religious life.
This study restores Richard Greenham to the central place he held in the development of Elizabethan Reformed parochial ministry. The monograph-length introduction includes a biography, an analysis of his pastoral style, and a study of his approach to curing cases of conscience.” – Book-flap
eds. van der Walt, Sarel & Nico Vorster – Reformed Theology Today: Practical-Theological, Missiological & Ethical Perspectives (Aosis, 2017) 225 pp. ToC
This international volume contains a fair amount of historical material on the Post-Reformation.
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On the Wesleyan Tradition
Maddox, Randy L. – Responsible Grace: John Wesley’s Practical Theology (Kingswood Books, 1994) 410 pp. ToC
Langford, Thomas A.
Practical Divinity: Theology in the Wesleyan Tradition (Abingdon Press, 1983) 300 pp. ToC
Practical Divinity, vol. 2: Readings in Wesleyan Theology (Abingdon Press, 1998) 320 pp. ToC
Ryu, Sunghyun – John Wesley’s Practical Theology & Preaching for Contemporary Korean Methodist Preachers DMin diss. (Claremont School of Theology, 2017) 80 pp. ToC
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At Princeton
Mikoski, Gordon S. & Richard R. Osmer – With Piety & Learning: the History of Practical Theology at Princeton Theological Seminary, 1812-2012 (Zurich: LIT, 2011) 250 pp. ToC
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Bibliographies
Article
1800’s
Malcom, Howard – ‘Practical Piety’ in Theological Index... (Boston, 1868), pp. 372-74
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Books
1900’s
Princeton Seminary – A Bibliography of Practical Theology (Theological Book Agency, 1949) 71 pp. ToC
“These lists aim at helpfulness rather than completeness… the present lists include only works in the English language, the large majority of them now in print.” – n.p.
Gorman & Gorman – Theological & Religious Reference Materials, vol. 3 (Practical Theology) (NY: Greenwood Press, 1984-1985) 405 pp. ToC
This volume includes conservative and non-conservative works.
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Latin Book
1600’s
Possevinus, Antonio – bk. 3, ‘Of Practical Theology, or Guidance on Cases of Conscience’ in Apparatus to the Study of Divine Scripture, Scholastic Theology, & Practical Theology, or Morals on Cases of Conscience 4th ed. (1609), pp. 114-42 His listings do not include protestants.
Possevino (1533–1611) was a Jesuit protagonist of Counter Reformation as a papal diplomat and a Jesuit controversialist, encyclopedist and bibliographer.
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Related Pages