Experiments of Spiritual Life & Health, and Their Preservatives In Which the Weakest Child of God May Get Assurance of His Spirituall Life and Blessednesse Etc. Book Summary

What is this book about?

This book is a comprehensive guide to the Christian's spiritual life, emphasizing the assurance of salvation and the preservation of spiritual health. Gill systematically explores the 'experiments' or experiences that mark the spiritual journey of a believer. He delves into the nature of assurance, explaining it not as a feeling but as a confident certainty based on God's promises and the work of Christ. The book then outlines the 'preservatives' or practices necessary to sustain this spiritual life, countering common 'evils' or hindrances that can undermine faith and assurance.

Key Lessons

The book is built around several key lessons essential for spiritual growth and assurance:

• Assurance of Salvation: Gill argues that true believers can know they are saved, not through a mere profession of faith, but through evidence such as repentance, faith, love for God and others, and a desire for holiness. He emphasizes that this assurance is grounded in the objective work of Christ and God's faithfulness, providing a solid foundation against doubt. Example: Assurance isn't a rollercoaster of emotions; it's the quiet confidence that rests on the unchanging Word of God and the finished work of Christ on the cross.
• Practical Preservatives: Gill identifies specific practices that 'preserve' the spiritual life. These include: diligent study of God's Word, prayer (both private and public), diligent waiting on God, living a holy life, and actively using spiritual gifts for the benefit of the church. These are not just suggestions but active disciplines to maintain spiritual health and growth. Example: Regular Bible reading isn't just for information; it's a preservative, nourishing the soul like food sustains the body, strengthening faith and providing guidance.
• Handling Doubts and Temptations: The book addresses the realities of spiritual struggle. Doubts about one's salvation and temptations to sin are presented as common 'experiments' that believers face. Gill encourages believers to fight these with the Word of God, prayer, reliance on God's strength, and by seeking support from fellow believers and godly counsel. Example: When doubt creeps in, the preservative is to immediately meditate on God's promises and pray for help, actively countering the lie with truth.
• Counting the Cost: Gill acknowledges that following Christ requires effort and involves dying to self, worldly ambitions, and sinful desires. He encourages readers to seriously consider what it means to be a disciple, emphasizing that true spiritual health involves a radical commitment to Christ's lordship. Example: Choosing to prioritize God's kingdom and righteousness above personal comfort or gain is part of the cost of discipleship and a sign of genuine spiritual life.

Is this book fit for me?

This book is particularly suited for individuals seeking:

• A Deeper Understanding of Assurance: If you wrestle with doubts about your salvation, this book offers a framework for finding assurance based on God's Word and character.
• Practical Help for Spiritual Dryness or Weakness: Gill provides guidance on maintaining spiritual vitality and resisting common spiritual 'evils'.
• Historical Insight into Puritan Spirituality: Readers interested in the theological and experiential perspectives of earlier Christian thinkers will find value here.
• A Clearer Definition of Christian Living: Those wanting a biblical standard for Christian behavior and the role of disciplines like prayer and Bible study in achieving it.
• Encouragement for the Journey of Faith: The book's emphasis on God's faithfulness and the possibility of assurance can be encouraging for anyone navigating faith challenges.

Does it still matter today?

Yes, 'Experiments of Spiritual Life & Health' still holds significant value for contemporary readers, despite being written centuries ago. Its core themes – the pursuit of assurance, the necessity of spiritual disciplines, the reality of doubt and temptation, and the call to holy living – are timeless aspects of the Christian faith. While the cultural and specific theological contexts might differ from the 18th century, the fundamental human experiences of seeking God and struggling with sin remain constant. Gill's clear, practical, and biblically grounded approach provides wisdom for navigating modern spiritual challenges.

However, readers should be aware that some of the specific cultural references or theological nuances (as with any historical text) might require careful consideration alongside contemporary teachings and practices.

Conclusion

John Gill's 'Experiments of Spiritual Life & Health' remains a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper, more assured relationship with God. It offers a wealth of practical wisdom, biblical depth, and historical perspective on the enduring challenges and joys of the Christian life. While perhaps best appreciated as a classic of Puritan literature, its core message of assurance grounded in Christ and maintained through diligent faith and practice continues to resonate and provide guidance for believers today.