Updated Timeless classic released Call to the Unconverted

 

Call to the Uncoverted to Turn and Live

by Richard Baxter

Updated and Annotated 

Aneko Press January 2023

1681 pp

Print $12.99

Buy at Aneko Press

About the Book

This book is from 17^th century classic Reformed minister Richard Baxter, revised from the 1863 version. “If you will turn and live, do it determinedly, and do not stand still and deliberate as if it were a doubtful case. Do not stand around wavering as if you were uncertain whether God or the flesh is the better mas­ter, whether sin or holiness is the better way, or whether heaven or hell is the better result.”

My Review

Originally written and published by Mr. Baxter during his ministry in England, this “little treatise” speaks a powerful but simple word, especially to those who have heard the gospel but haven’t chosen to follow it by repenting and living a worthy life. God does not give you prophets, but ordinary ministers, Baxter writes.

Using heart-felt pleas, Baxter makes liberal use of Scripture to appeal to the reader to stand now, while here and alive, before it’s too late. He’s astonished at how many are called but how few will be saved, he writes in his introduction. His goal is two-fold: to convince readers it’s not God’s fault if they are in misery, and it’s their fault if they choose to reject God. Following, he lays out seven principles to support his exhortation.

Baxter’s conclusion again begs the reader to convert to a life of faith, and lays out reasons to do, as well as concise directions, such as “read and heed the word of God,” “immediately give up your known and willful sin,” and the very practical “change your company.” Ending with a lovely prayer, Baxter’s love for people is clear and dear.

Updated with call-outs and readable, elegant typesetting, this timeless plea for the souls of humankind will surely touch all readers.

About the Author

Richard Baxter (1615–1691) preached “as a dying man to dying men.” He was devoted to God and was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. Best known as the minister of Kidderminster in England, his love for God and others resulted in practically the entire town of Kidderminster turning to Jesus during Baxter’s ministry there. Richard Baxter desired unity among Christians, which often resulted in opposition from those who held to church loyalty or theological views rather than to Christ and God’s Word. Baxter had his share of persecution, even being imprisoned on several occasions.