Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661)

Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661) -- from Wikipedia Article

Selection from his Letters

Description: This volume features approximately 70 letters written by Samuel Rutherford to members of his church after the English Episcopacy exiled him for his nonconformist beliefs. In many of Rutherford's letters, it is evident by his tone that he was struggling with the deep sorrow of being separated from his church family. Each letter is addressed to its recipient by name. Often, a heading will indicate the particular reason for Rutherford's letter, usually a death or illness in the recipient's family. Having experienced the death of his wife and two children years before his exile, Rutherford was inspired by God to become a comforter to those who suffered personal loss. Sometimes, Rutherford wrote letters to congratulate an individual on his or her conversion to the faith. Other times, Rutherford sent letters of blessing and encouragement. Each letter is unique in style and reflects Rutherford's sincere love for his congregation. The short letters in this volume are wonderful pieces for meditation and reflection.

Emmalon Davis
CCEL Staff Writer

Tryal & Triumph of Faith: or An Exposition of the History of Christ's dispossessing of the daughter of the woman of Canaan. -- from www.truecovenanter.com

Description: This collection of twenty-seven sermons examines the story of Jesus’ exorcising a demon from a Canaanite woman’s daughter (described in Matthew 15:21-28 and Mark 7:24- 30). Throughout these sermons, Rutherford explores how God’s grace manifests itself in lives of faith. The Canaanite woman’s story, Rutherford tells us, shows how God began to reveal his saving grace more explicitly to Gentiles. More important for Rutherford, though, was holding up the Canaanite woman as an example of what true faith in Christ is and does. Additionally, Rutherford’s message serves to comfort his Christian readers; the Canaanite woman’s story provides an example of God’s compassion for all people, even the outcasts and lowliest ones among them.



Kathleen O’Bannon

CCEL Staff