Letters of Samuel Rutherford V: Am I What I Say I Am?

We appreciate you giving us time to prepare new studies and to let you know about the study with Dr. Stephen Yuille that we just released. You can find more information about that study in the show notes.

But this week Dr. John Snyder returns to the letters of Samuel Rutherford. As Dr. Snyder says, those we read can become lifelong friends and counselors who speak truth to us in times of need. This is particularly true of Samuel Rutherford. While he did write polemical works, he is especially remembered for his warm and compelling descriptions of Christ and for his helpful words regarding the sanctification of the Christian.

In this week’s letter, Rutherford presents nine evidences of saving faith. He is helping us answer the question, “Am I truly the Christian I say I am?” Every Christian experiences uncertainty in particular seasons, and many experience it without realizing how common it is. This letter is written for them.

Rutherford calls us to consider whether these evidences are present in our lives:

  1. A willingness to prize Christ above all things

  2. Obedience that is driven by love and not fear

  3. Humility and self-denial

  4. A profession of faith that is accompanied by good works

  5. A desire to live for God’s honor in all things

  6. A genuine hatred of sin

  7. A careful commitment to biblical truth and worship

  8. Conscientiousness in everyday calling and relationships

  9. A life marked by habitual prayer

As we listen to or read this letter (linked in the show notes), we pray God uses these evidences to both encourage and convict us, strengthening true assurance and directing us again to Christ.

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Show Notes

Show Notes:

Kingdom Life: Studies in the Sermon on the Mount

You can read the letter here.

Life of Samuel Rutherford by Andrew Thompson


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The Whole CounselSarah Snyder