12. The Trinitarian Devotion of John Owen by Sinclair Ferguson. Finished this last night as I sat in Boomtown enjoying drinking my coffee in the slowly fading evening light. And what an encouraging and comforting (and yes, enlightening!) book this has been. I received it from Dad this past Christmas. This book is part of the “A Long Line of Godly Men” series edited by Steve Lawson…and I think this is the first book in the series I’ve read that’s not also written by Steve Lawson. Of course it’s not my first book I’ve read by Sinclair Ferguson (I’ve also had the pleasure of hearing him preach at Ligonier conference back in the day!), and knowing Ferguson, I knew this would be a good one. Actually – I had no doubt of that, as Owen is one of my favourite authors…so learning more about him? How could that go wrong?? And sure enough, it’s a simply wonderful book. As these books go, the first few chapters are a brief biographical sketch, and it was most enjoyable in this case, as I’ve never read a biography on Owen before, so I learned a lot. He was truly a man of God, used much in his life (he lived in the 17th century, for anyone that was wondering). He was associated with some of the principle characters in the English Civil War (Cromwell et al) but his primary allegiance was not to any political character, but to God Himself. And so of course, I enjoyed learning more about the life of Owen (I love biographies!). But my favourite part of this book was Ferguson’s discussion on Owen’s theology. He cited from many different volumes of Owen’s Works, and I was excited to realize that some of his citations were from volumes I’ve already read! Ferguson spent multiple chapters discussing the Trinity, which is such a rich subject worthy of much meditation. Owen spilled much ink discussing the roles of the Persons of the Trinity and hence Ferguson felt it was worthwhile (I am definitely in agreement) to highlight some of Owen’s teachings on the subject. So by far the highlight of this book was reading more about the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. So encouraging to my soul. Oh how I long for greater communion with God. Any book that stirs such desire is truly praiseworthy. Also this book caused me to want to read more Owen…but I am holding off. Not yet!! Once I start another Owen volume, it will be months before I complete it, so probably going to read a few more books before I dive into Volume 4. Soon though. Maybe I’ll target mid-April or so. It will be my summertime reading and it shall be glorious. Anyways, to conclude – this book is highly recommended and it’s super short (less than 130 pages and it’s a very small – in dimensions – book). Most readable and incredibly encouraging.

Now my friends – have a most beautiful Friday. Go in the grace of our Lord.