by John Ball
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
"A Treatise of Faith: Showing the Nature and Life of Faith" by John Ball is an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the intricate workings of faith from a Reformed perspective. This profound work meticulously explores the various facets of faith, from its nature and origins to its effects and practical applications in the believer's life.
Ball begins by clarifying the diverse acceptations of faith, distinguishing between historical faith, justifying faith, and living by faith. He emphasizes that true justifying faith is not merely an intellectual assent but a lively and obediential affiance in Christ, bringing assurance of salvation and a transformative impact on the believer’s life. This comprehensive approach ensures that readers are not only informed about the theological underpinnings of faith but are also guided on how to live out their faith in practical ways.
One of the most compelling aspects of Ball’s treatise is his discussion on the general and special objects of faith. He argues that justifying faith is a particular and certain confidence in God's promises, grounded upon the Word of God rather than the authority of the Church. This perspective provides a robust foundation for believers, encouraging them to trust in the divine promises with certainty and assurance, despite the trials and temptations they may face.
Ball also considers the effects of justifying faith, highlighting its role in the believer’s assurance of salvation and its grounding in the Scriptures. He addresses how faith operates in times of temptation and adversity, offering practical advice on resisting Satan’s attempts to undermine one's faith. His exploration of living by faith in various aspects of life, including the promises of pardon, sanctification, perseverance, and temporal blessings, provides readers with a holistic view of how faith should permeate every aspect of their lives.
The treatise is further enriched by Ball’s detailed examination of the means by which faith is planted and confirmed in the believer’s heart. He discusses the right plantation of faith and the importance of God’s ordinances, including the Word and Sacraments, in nurturing and sustaining faith. This focus on practical piety ensures that readers are equipped not only with theological knowledge but also with the means to apply it effectively in their spiritual journeys.
Overall, "A Treatise of Faith" by John Ball is a profound and enriching work that offers deep theological insights coupled with practical guidance on living out one’s faith. Its comprehensive treatment of the nature and life of faith makes it an invaluable resource for both seasoned theologians and lay readers seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of the Christian faith.
Author's Biographical Information
John Ball was a notable English Puritan theologian and preacher (1585-1640). He was known for his deep theological insights and his commitment to the Reformed tradition during a time of significant religious upheaval in England. Here are some key points about his life and contributions: He was born in Cassington, Oxfordshire. He was educated at Brasenose College, Oxford, where he distinguished himself in classical studies and theology. His education at Oxford laid a strong foundation for his later work as a theologian and preacher. Ball served as a minister in the Church of England but aligned himself with the Puritan movement, which sought to purify the church of what they saw as lingering Catholic practices. He was known for his rigorous adherence to Reformed theology and his emphasis on personal piety and scriptural authority. Ball's writings reflect his commitment to the doctrines of grace and his pastoral concern for the spiritual welfare of his congregation. "A Treatise of Faith," one of his most significant works, considers the nature of justifying faith and its implications for Christian living. His works were widely read and respected among his contemporaries and later generations of Reformed Christians. John Ball's influence extended beyond his own lifetime through his writings and the impact he had on his contemporaries. His works were often cited by other Puritan theologians and remain of interest to scholars of Reformation and Puritan history.
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Table of Contents
PREF. – To the Reader.
Part I.
1. CHAP. I. Of the diverse acceptations of Faith.
2. CHAP. II. Of the Author and worker of Faith Justifying.
3. CHAP. III. Of Justifying faith what it is, and what things are implied therein.
4. CHAP. IIII. Love is not the soul of faith, yet Justifying Faith cannot be without Love.
5. CHAP. V. Of the general object or matter of Faith Justifying.
6. CHAP. VI. Of the Special object of Justifying. Faith.
7. CHAP. VII. Justifying faith is a particular and certain confidence.
8. CHAP. VIII. By faith a true believer may be certain and infallibly assured of the remission of his sins and eternal salvation.
9. CHAP. IX. Faith is grounded upon the word of God, not upon the authority of the Church.
10. CHAP. X. Of the Effects, Subject and Degrees of Justifying Faith.
11. CHAP. XI. Of the right plantation of faith, and means whereby it is confirmed.
12. CHAP. XII. Of the temptations whereby Satan seeketh to batter down our faith, and how he may be resisted.
13. APPENDIX I. – Part I. Scripture References.
Part II.
14. CHAP. I. What it is to live by faith, and how a Christian should stir up himself thereunto.
15. CHAP. II. What it is to live by faith in particular touching the promises of pardon and forgiveness.
16. CHAP. III. What it is to live by faith touching the promises of Sanctification.
17. CHAP. IIII. What it is to live by Faith concerning the promises of everlasting life.
18. CHAP. V. What it is live by faith touching the promises of perseverance.
19. CHAP. VI. How to live by faith in time of Temptation.
20. CHAP. VII. How to live by faith in the times of trouble and adversity.
21. CHAP. VIII. What it is to live by faith touching the promises of earthly blessings, temporal prosperity, and good success.
22. CHAP. IX. What it is to live by faith touching the Commandments.
23. CHAP. X. What it is to live by faith in the duties of our vocation.
24. CHAP. XI. How to live by Faith in the use of God's Ordinances, the Word and Sacraments.
25. CHAP. XII. The faithful are bound, and it is behooveful for them, to believe the threatening’s.
26. APPENDIX II. – Part II. Scripture References.