Rediscovering the Spiritual Giant of John Owen
In an era where Christianity has become increasingly man-centered and success-oriented, we desperately need to reconnect with the rich spiritual heritage of the past. One towering figure who can guide us on this journey is the Puritan giant, John Owen. As J.I. Packer so aptly put it, we are spiritual dwarfs compared to Owen, and it’s high time we learn from his remarkable life and writings.
A Big View of God
Owen’s spirituality was characterized by a profound passion for the glory of God in Christ. This was not just an intellectual exercise, but a deeply personal and experiential relationship with the living God. For Owen, knowing God was not enough; one must also serve, adore, and worship Him. This radical God-centeredness is a much-needed corrective to our modern tendency to reduce Christianity to mere sentimentality or self-indulgence.
The Quality of Owen’s Spirituality
Owen’s deep understanding of human nature, shaped by his study of Scripture and his experience as a pastor, is another vital lesson for us today. He recognized that sin has profoundly distorted humanity, leaving us guilty, corrupt, and helpless before a holy God. Only through the gracious work of the Spirit can sinners be converted to Christ and grow in holiness. Owen’s emphasis on the triune God’s role in sanctification and growth in holiness is a powerful reminder of the centrality of communion with God in the Christian life.
Seeking Reformation
Owen’s vision for reformation extended far beyond individual believers to encompass the corporate church. He was committed to promoting genuine godliness through the preaching and teaching of God’s Word, the administration of the sacraments, and the practice of church discipline. This commitment to reformation is a timely reminder of the importance of seeking spiritual renewal in our own day.
A Legacy Worth Rediscovering
Despite his significant contributions to Christian theology and spirituality, John Owen remains a relatively unknown figure to many Christians today. This is a tragic oversight, as his writings offer a treasure trove of insights into the Christian life, pastoral ministry, and historical context. As we seek to deepen our understanding of God and His ways, we would do well to rediscover the spiritual giant of John Owen and learn from his remarkable legacy.
About the Authors
Matthew Barrett is associate professor of Christian theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and the founder and executive editor of Credo Magazine. Michael A.G. Haykin is professor of church history and biblical spirituality at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and director of the Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies. Both authors have written extensively on Christian theology and history, and are passionate about promoting a deeper understanding of the Christian faith.
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