John Owen, a Puritan pastor-theologian, is best known today for his sixteen volumes, first published in 1850-53 and were reprinted by the Banner of Truth Trust in the mid-twentieth century. These volumes are divided into three categories: First, doctrinal (vols. 1-5), where Owen discusses some aspects of theology such as Christology (vol. 1), trinity (2), pneumatology (3 & 4), and soteriology (5). Then second, practical (vols. 6-9), so called because it pertains to Christian living, consisting of his hamartological treatises and sermons. Then finally, controversial, in which Owen writes polemically against Arminianism, Socinianism, Roman Catholicism, and others. In first section, Owen pens primarily as a theologian; in second, as a pastor; in third, as an apologist. Hence, readers unfamiliar to Owen are advised to first read those volumes in practical division, as they are not difficult to read. However, it should be remembered as Ferguson says that Owen always writes with a “practical and pastoral aim in view— the promotion of true Christian living” (John Owen on the Christian Life, xi). In fact, we can further say that Owen typically puts pen to paper as inseparably a theologian, pastor, and apologist. This style is best seen in his volume six and it is on this particular volume that this review will focus.
Volume six is one of today’s best books on hamartology, containing four great works, which are arranged chronologically. One of which is, Of the Mortification of Sin in Believers, published in 1656. It is a heavy treatise based on Romans 8:13, touching on the necessity, nature, and means of mortification in the lives of the Christians. Second, Of Temptations, appeared in 1658. It is a short but powerful message on the theology of temptation that expounds Matthew 26:41. Here Owen discusses three major points: (1) the nature and power of temptation; (2) the danger of entering into it; and (3) the means of preventing that danger. It can be observed from his works that Owen is a systematic writer; however, if one reader will not carefully pay attention to his points, that reader may be easily lost, because of Owen’s frequent use of sub points and sub-sub points. The third work contained in volume six is, The Nature, Power, Deceit, and Prevalency of the Remainders of Indwelling Sin in Believers (1668). Many consider it one of Owen’s best works. It elaborates the doctrine of original sin, using Romans 7:21 as it main text. It shows how Owen masters his subject matter, explaining it theologically and experientially. Finally, the fourth work in volume six is A Practical Exposition upon Psalm 130 (1668). This massive treatise covers approximately one-half of the whole volume. As the title bears, it expounds Psalm 130 with special emphasis on verse four. It is like a sermonic-expository commentary designed for “those whose spiritual state and condition is represented in the psalm” (see p. 325).
In reading volume six, one should not forget to read the ‘prefatory notes,’ which are placed prior to every work of Owen. These notes give a short description on each work, telling the readers the historical setting wherein Owen wrote his particular treatise. Moreover, it is also advisable to first take a look on Owen’s preface, before reading his work, because Owen normally explains his main thesis in his preface. This will help the readers understand his endeavors easily.
It can be concluded that Owen was one of the best Puritan hamartologists. His volume six is an excellent reference for anyone who wishes to study or write on hamartology.
If you would like to purchase this volume or the 16 volumes set of the Works of John Owen you can do so by clicking here.
