Benjamin Keach
Benjamin Keach (1640-1704): important
Particular Baptist preacher, author, and ardent defender of Baptist
principles, even against Richard Baxter. Often in prison and frequently in
danger for preaching the Gospel, he was the first to introduce singing
hymns in the worship of English congregations.
"After defining godliness and showing its worthy pedigree and
antiquity, 'the excellent Benjamin Keach' (as he was fondly called),
allegorically personifies 'Godliness,' much as Bunyan did 'Christian.' He
introduces us to more than two dozen enemies of godliness, then details
Godliness's encounters with several of them, including apostasy,
hypocrisy, legalism, antinomianism, worldliness, and Satan. We meet in
graphic detail the temptations of youth and old age, of riches and
poverty, as well as the joys of contentment, thoughtfulness, kindness, and
love. This is a fascinating read by the most important Baptist thinker of
his day, designed to stir us up to a greater pursuit of godliness." -
Dr. Joel R. Beeke, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids,
Michigan
"While The Pilgrim's Progress is the most famous of the Christian
journey allegories of the seventeenth century, it is not the only one.
Though nearly forgotten today, Benjamin Keach's 'The Travels of True
Godliness' was in the eighteenth century nearly as popular as Bunyan's
great work. It is a great blessing to see it back in print. We hope that
many will read, enjoy and benefit from it." - Dr. James M. Renihan
"Most modern men don't think deeply. If there is something called 'true
godliness,' for a contrast to stand, there must also be a form of religion
that is not true and straight, but false. The former is rare in the world;
the latter abounds even in the churches. "The Travels of True Godliness"
is a road map for and about those on God's narrow way. For others, if the
directions of God go unheard and unheeded, 'true godliness' will remain a
quaint curiosity on the road to destruction." - Dr. Mike Renihan
"Those who adopt as one of their modes of benevolence, the distribution of
awakening tracts, will find this happily suited to their purpose, and
adapted to a great variety of characters. To Christians it will prove an
excellent closet companion, containing judicious and satisfactory helps to
self-examination, and designating the true and false marks of grace with
remarkable precision. May the divine blessing attend it." - from the
Preface by Howard Malcolm, editor of this revised edition, dated June 1,
1829 |