by Thomas Doolittle
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
"Captives Bound in Chains Made Free by Christ Their Surety" by Thomas Doolittle is a profoundly impactful and spiritually enlightening work that explores the themes of redemption, freedom, and compassion. This book explores the Christian concept of spiritual bondage and the transformative power of Christ's redemption.
Thomas Doolittle's work begins by vividly describing the spiritual state of humanity as captive to sin and bound by the chains of guilt and disobedience. He emphasizes the hopelessness of this condition, highlighting the insurmountable debt owed for transgressions and the inability of individuals to free themselves from this captivity.
The central focus of the book revolves around the role of Jesus Christ as the Surety—the one who voluntarily undertakes the payment of humanity's debt to God. Doolittle eloquently illustrates how Christ's sacrifice and redemptive work on the cross are the ultimate source of liberation from spiritual bondage. Through Christ, believers find freedom from the chains of sin, forgiveness for their debts, and a path to salvation.
The book not only considers the theological aspects of redemption but also provides practical exhortations for individuals in various life circumstances. It calls upon ministers, parents, masters, and all Christians to display compassion and actively work towards the spiritual liberation of those still bound in sin. Doolittle emphasizes the importance of guiding and assisting others in their journey towards faith and redemption.
Doolittle's writing style is both engaging and passionate, making complex theological concepts accessible to a broad readership. He uses vivid imagery and poignant examples to convey the urgency of embracing Christ as the Surety and the profound transformation that occurs when one is liberated from spiritual bondage.
In essence, "Captives Bound in Chains Made Free by Christ Their Surety" is a timeless Christian classic that encourages readers to reflect on their own spiritual condition, appreciate the redemptive work of Christ, and embrace the call to compassionately assist others in their pursuit of spiritual freedom. This book serves as a powerful reminder of the boundless grace and mercy available through faith in Jesus Christ.
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Table of Contents
To the Congregation
CHAP. I. Containing the Explication of the Text.
CHAP. II. The Doctrine, that unconverted men are the Devils Captives, fast bound with the Chains and Bonds of their own iniquity and sin; wherein they are resembled unto Captives.
CHAP. III. Ten several Chains with which these Captives are bound; the first is Ignorance, with an attempt for the breaking of it.
CHAP. IV.The second Chain, is Prejudice against the ways of God and serious Religion; several Links in this Chain.
CHAP. V. The third Chain is the immoderate and predominant love of the profits and riches of this world.
CHAP. VI. The fourth Chain, is false Hopes of Heaven; several Links in this Chain.
CHAP. VII.The fifth Chain is Despair.
CHAP. VIII.The sixth Chain, is men's satisfying themselves with a moral blameless Life.
CHAP. IX.The Eighth, the Examples of others.
CHAP. X. Showing the Captivity of sinners by Satan is worse than the Captivity of Men in the sorest corporal slavery.
CHAP. XI. There is Liberty for Captive-sinners.
CHAP. XII. The Use of the whole.