"Preaching in the First Half-Century of New England" a book review / commentary by Pastor Reid Ferguson
Home About Us Calendar Contact Us Links The ECF Pulpit Pastor's Blog Elders' Perspectives Adorn the Doctrine Eclectic Ecclesiastics Missions		Babette May Levy is probably not a name most are acquainted with when it comes to Puritan literature. Indeed, she is not a Puritan herself, but a contemporary. Her association with Puritan preaching in particular comes to us in the form of a potential new Soli Deo Gloria reprint of her 1945 work: "Preaching in the First Half-Century of New England History." And it is well worth the read. Perhaps the greatest value of Levy's book is that it is written neither in the cast of a fan, nor that of the critic. Hers are the lines of the reporter. A reporter who tries assiduously (though sometimes not successfully) to simply report the facts and not to sway the reader to what might be her own conclusions or opinions. The result is an awkward read, but an invaluable one. And toward the end of the volume, her obvious admiration for those men whose preaching she might not have preferred to sit under, cannot help but peek through. This then is precisely why the book is so valuable. It is a survey done by an "outsider" if I might be allowed that term. To be honest, I do not know for certain her true view in its entirety. She guards that very carefully. But this reader was left with the impression that Puritan preaching would not be her personal cup of tea. So, when she addresses the learning, humility, earnestness and single-minded devotion of these heroes of the Faith with great warmth - it is sweet praise indeed. While the book should be of wide interest for the way it colors in some heretofore mere outlines in preaching history, its real value will be recognized more fully by the preacher. It is a veritable treasure trove of detail that is seldom seen anywhere else. With that, comes a very evident repetition regarding the clarity and simplicity these pulpit giants strove for with such fierce tenacity. It has driven home that message with great profit to this preacher, and I trust to the profit of my own congregation. Another inescapable conclusion the reader is driven to is how variegated God's gifts are to His Church in the array of styles, personalities, talents and abilities that are represented by this sketch of the face of New England preaching. It should tender hope for those with less natural abilities on which to rely, and demonstrated balance for those whose gifts may tempt them to rely on self. O for just once to have a thought as original as Levy quotes from Charles Chauncy when he was opening up the temptations of Christ. She writes that for Chauncy the temptations and anguish of Jesus Christ were comparable to "shakings of clean water, in a clean glass, the water remains pure still." That is worth the price of the book alone. Eye opening, challenging and encouraging - Levy's "Preaching in the First Half Century of New England History" is something your congregation will be glad you read.   Copyright © 2004 Reid A. Ferguson. Permission granted to quote in context.
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