Where to Start
If you’re unsure where to begin your journey, you’re not alone.
Where should I start reading the Puritans?
To help answer that question, we have selected seven books that serve as an excellent introduction for new readers. Each book was chosen using the following SLIM criteria:
· Simplicity — easy to read and understand
· Length — shorter and approachable (roughly 100 pages)
· Impact — deeply practical and spiritually transformative
· Majority — widely recommended by pastors, scholars, and experienced readers
Whether you’re brand new to the Puritans or looking for a solid foundation, these books are designed to help you begin the journey with confidence.
The List
Following God Fully: An Introduction to the Puritans
by Michael Reeves and Joel Beeke
We haven’t found a better introduction to the Puritans. This book sets the historical context and provides an overview of what they stood for and why we should read them.
The Vanity of Thoughts
by Thomas Goodwin
This book shows the wickedness and the vanity of the heart by nature, particularly the vanity of thoughts. In it, Goodwin argues that it is not what thoughts pass through your hearts but those which lodge or dwell in your hearts that shows your true repentance.
The Life of God in the Soul of Man
by Henry Scougal
Crossway says this book “cuts through false ideas about Christianity and demonstrates how to pursue true unity with God.
We also recommend checking out these two resources from Desiring God:
The Way to True Happiness
by Ralph Venning
This book proposes that the way to true happiness is only to be found in understanding and doing the will of God.
Triumphing Over Sinful Fear
by John Flavel
This book shows how fear can become sinful and what to do about it.
Stop Loving the World
by William Greenhill
This book shows why we should not love the world and offers practical advice on how to pry our fallen natures away from loving the world.
This quote sums up how important this book is, ““You do not love the Father if your affections are chained to the world.”
Faith Seeking Assurance
by Anthony Burgess
If you’ve ever questioned your own salvation, this book is for you.