Join the 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge!
Update 1: Some have brought up the fact that I forgot to actually list the books for each month in this post (although they are in the prior post). I have included them so that everyone can know what books scheduled to read. However, if you would like to develop your own PP reading schedule, then you are free to do so.
Update 2: Many of you have already purchased the entire set for $65, so many that we are experiencing a shortage on some of the Puritan Paperbacks. This is a great thing! Would that all the PP’s become best-sellers in 2008. 
However, if there is a problem with obtaining the books by the time of the scheduled read, we will rearrange the reading to make that possible.
Update 3: Some have asked about how to insert the HTML code for the blog button. I cannot simply copy and paste the code because WordPress will convert it to the image. So you need to insert this url http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2052/2172676863_e1315a3839_o.jpg where the code says “INSERT JPEG HERE.”
<a href=”http://timmybrister.com/2008/01/07/join-the-2008-puritan-reading-challenge/”><img src=”INSERT JPEG URL HERE”></a>
Then copy and paste the entire code into your template sidebar or text widget (if you are using WordPress). Please let me know if you have any more questions!
Update 4: A word from Tim Keller from Justin Taylor’s post:
For what it’s worth, I read all but one of the books on this list during seminary and my early ministry, and they had an enormous, life-changing, ministry-shaping impact on me. A couple of them almost literally saved my life. I couldn’t recommend them more highly. I’d only add: a) Read Owen on Temptation as well as Mortification. It’s short and well worth the read. b) Consider adding Baxter’s Saints Everlasting Rest. Other than those, I’d agree that these are the best short, accessible Puritan works. A great list.
Tim Keller
Update 5: After three days, over 100 people have signed on! I am super-excited. Also I have tallied 55 blogs plugging or blogging the challenge. Thanks to everyone who has helped get the word out! Perhaps we can see 200?!
__________________________________________
Towards the close of 2007, I began thinking of a way I could challenge myself to grow spiritually through a reading regiment and schedule. While riding home from work one morning, I came up with the idea of reading one Puritan Paperback a month, along with incorporating the Valley of Vision in my devotional meditations and prayers. I shared my personal challenge publicly, not thinking much about it.
To my surprise, this Puritan reading challenge has resonated with more people than I could have ever imagined. Due to the high level of interest and encouragement from many people wanting to take on this reading challenge together, I have worked to make this Puritan reading project the best it could be. Allow me to briefly share with you some of the developments, but before I do, let me ask a personal favor:
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you have decided to join the 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge, please take a moment and comment on this post, providing your first and last name. If you are going to blog through the books or promote the challenge on your blog, please express your intentions as well. This way I will have a general idea of who’s in and how to communicate with everyone throughout the year.
1. Reformation Heritage Books Partnership and Specials
I am excited to share with you that Reformation Heritage Books, has agreed to partner with us in the 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge. Several of you have contacted me via the blog, Facebook, and email about getting them all at one time at a discounted price, and RHB has delivered on that request. Although RHB already has the lowest prices on Puritan Paperbacks (usually around 30% off), they have created a 2008 Puritan Reading Special where you can buy all 12 Puritan Paperbacks together in one bundle, saving you 36% off the retail price. The 12 books retail for $101.00, and RHB is selling them for only $65.00. Here is the line-up of books we are reading this year:
January: The Bruised Reed by Richard Sibbes (128 pp)
February: The Mystery of Providence by John Flavel (221 pp)
March: The Godly Man’s Picture by Thomas Watson (252 pp)
April: Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices by Thomas Brooks (253 pp)
May: Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ by John Bunyan (225 pp)
June: The Mortification of Sin by John Owen (130 pp)
July: A Lifting Up for the Downcast by William Bridge (287 pp)
August: The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment by Jeremiah Burroughs (228 pp)
September: The True Bounds of Christian Freedom by Samuel Bolton (224 pp)
October: The Christian’s Great Interest by William Guthrie (207 pp)
November: The Reformed Pastor by Richard Baxter (256 pp)
December: A Sure Guide to Heaven by Joseph Alleine (148 pp)
Secondly, RHB is offering a special discounted price for an excellent Puritan resource, Meet the Puritans by Joel Beeke and Randall Pederson. The book retails for $35.00, and on their website it sells for $25.00. But RHB is now offering a special price of only $20.00. To get this great deal, you must order either via phone or email, letting them know that you heard about the 2008 Puritan Reading Special for Meet the Puritans for only $20.00. The number to call and place your order is (616) 977-0599, or you can email them at orders@heritagebooks.org. These specials are a fantastic way for you to get you copies of Puritan literature at the most affordable price anywhere, and I am grateful to the good people at RHB for joining in this exciting project.
2. Beneath and Behind the Pages
To make this project more beneficial to you, I have considered ways to provide more context both historically and biographically to each book we are reading. At the beginning of each month, I will post a brief biographical sketch of the author, providing general information about his life, ministry, and other available works. Second, I am going to hunt down online resources related to the author and make them available in one place. Third, if the author’s works are available, I hope to “mine the works” and provide additional topical or thematic reading material that might be of interest to you. Fourth, I hope to provide some quotes from other individuals who have had something to say either about the author or the book we are reading. Last, I am looking to highlight either the thesis or key doctrinal themes in the work we are reading for interaction and discussion. I would love for you to join in sharing your thoughts!
3. Prospective Interviews
It is always good to hear from pastors and theologians who have studied and benefited from the Puritans. With each month, I am hoping to provide an interview of respected leaders who have expressed their appreciated of and indebtedness to the Puritans. I am really excited about this opportunity!
4. Monthly Giveaways
At the close of each month, I am going to post an open thread to conclude each book. The Puritans were intensely practical in their works, often spending the majority of their sermons and literature focusing on the “uses” or application for any given doctrine or biblical truth. They did not want mere head knowledge but a deep, experiential (experimental) knowledge of God. In light of that, the open thread will be an opportunity to answer the question, “How has this book impacted your life? What use will it have in your ministry or service in the kingdom?” In 500 words or less, I would love to hear your testimony regarding your experience that month while reading the Puritan Paperback and internalizing the truths into your heart and life. For January’s giveaway, we are going to randomly select from among those in the comments of this post who sign on to the Puritan Reading Challenge, so be sure sign on!
5. Blog Button Promotional
Over 30 bloggers have been kind enough to mention the 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge, encouraging their readers to check it out. Realizing the potential for this challenge to spread exponentially through the blogosphere, I have created a small button you can use on your sidebar to direct people to this post where they can sign up, order books, or ask any questions they might have. The dimensions of the button are 185×98 at a resolution of 72 dpi and can be downloaded by clicking here.
A Word of Encouragement
I know many of you have never heard of the Puritans. Some of you may have never read literature older than a decade, much less three centuries. Let me sincerely encourage you to consider this challenge. You may not have time or be able to read all twelve books. That’s totally fine. If you read just one, I promise you will have not wasted your time! Inevitably, some of you will read about this challenge sometime during the year. It’s never too late to join in! The goal behind this challenge is to introduce you to some of the godliest men who have ever lived through their writings. While their books may never make the front shelves of your local bookstore, for 2008, they will be on the front of the virtual bookshelf for all who are interested. I pray you are among them!
REMEMBER, if you have decided to join the 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge, please take a moment to leave your first and last name in the comments, expressing your intentions to take the challenge. To the bloggers who want to use the blog button to help promote the project, if you have any questions or problems, please let me know.
I am looking forward to this year sitting at the feet of great teachers like Richard Sibbes, Thomas Watson, John Owen, Richard Baxter, and others along with you. May we pursue the heart of God with greater affections, and may we renew our minds with higher thoughts of the greatness and glory of God.
Tags: 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge, Meet the Puritans, Puritan Paperbacks, Valley of Vision
You can comment below, or link to this permanent URL from your own site.
January 7, 2008 at 6:00 am
Hi Timmy,
I know I commented in the original post about this, but just to confirm that I’m in for the challenge. I’ve already started to post about it, and am going to make it a major area of study for my own blog this year.
Thanks once again for this stimulus to get into the Puritans in a deeper way. My only regret is that I live in the UK and can’t get that great offer from RHB.
God bless,
Andrew
January 7, 2008 at 7:38 am
I’m in. I’ll order them today. Hey and email me, just really quick so that I have your current address. Talk to you soon.
Under His Mercy,
Zach
January 7, 2008 at 7:57 am
I am in. I have also talked with the owner of the Book Nook and he is going to be stocking the books (I gave him a list) for the challenge on his shelf as soon as he gets them in.
January 7, 2008 at 7:59 am
I thought this was a wonderful idea from the get-go. I have also enlisted my son in Arizona, Jonathan, and we will communicate weekly via phone to discuss our reading.
I am posting my thoughts on my blog:
http://minormutterings.blogspot.com
In addition to the works on this list, let me highly recommend Samuel Rutherford’s “The Loveliness of Christ”. A timy little volume packed with rich jewels.
January 7, 2008 at 8:09 am
I’m in!
John
January 7, 2008 at 8:24 am
This is really a great idea to kick start my reading plan for the year.
Frankie
January 7, 2008 at 8:29 am
Steve Burlew of Banner of Truth has also offered discounts for the books on the list.
Check out his site: http://trophiesofhisgrace.blogspot.com/2007/12/this-is-going-to-change-some-lives.html
January 7, 2008 at 8:55 am
My sister and I are in too!
I didn’t think that there might be a discount, so we already bought the books and started reading them. It’s good, since I for the longest time only read about good books, and did not actually read the books myself. Great idea!
Anja
January 7, 2008 at 9:00 am
Sounds like a challenge worth taking up.
January 7, 2008 at 9:07 am
Timmy,
This is a very exciting adventure that God has directed you to lead. I’d encourage you at the get-go to consider a method to compile this ream of data you will be generating beyond just the archive on your blog. You could make an excellent study/devotional guide that at any point in time that people could use as a companion in starting to read the puritans.
I unfortunately at this time can’t commit to the challenge but I hope to take it up as a project in the future and Lord willing a fellow “blue-collar student” I’ve engaged in studying will join me.
May God Bless this endeavor,
Mark
January 7, 2008 at 9:47 am
I’ve been thinking for a while that it would be a good idea to read more of the Puritans. Now this is the perfect opportunity - thanks for the push!
January 7, 2008 at 10:01 am
Tim,
First of all, thank you for investing so much time towards this. I am very excited about the challenge. Although my first 3 books from Monergism have NOT arrived yet—-I expect the delay being in Japan—-just hate to be behind already. I plan on ordering through RHB too b/c of the discount. Thanks for working that deal for us. I’ll be adding the button to my Blog. I plan on posting my thoughts on there as we work through the year. I like what John Piper says in regards to reading hard books, “Raking is easy, but all you get is leaves; digging is hard, but you might find diamonds.” I look forward to reading and learning with everyone!
Grace to you,
Jennifer Partin .
January 7, 2008 at 10:34 am
Sign me up. I just got all 38 Puritan Paperbacks for Christmas, and this is just the kind of thing that will get me motivated to jump in. Thanks for the challenge.
Jason Dalton
January 7, 2008 at 11:12 am
Hey there, Dirk and I will definitely be joining this challenge! We both want to read more of the puritans and I can’t resist a reading challenge. We will be adding the button and advertise the challenge shortly. Thanks!! –Kathy
January 7, 2008 at 11:13 am
I might switch a couple of the books, but count me in. I too will be posting reflections and reviews at my blog. Great idea, may the Lord give us grace in this endeavor.
January 7, 2008 at 11:31 am
Advertised the challenge for today’s post on my Blog but cannot add the button on my page and still direct the button to your site. (A little over my head!—any advice?) Other than that, I’m good.
January 7, 2008 at 11:33 am
I’m in! I’ve been looking to growing in godly reading this year and this is a great way to start. Thanks!
January 7, 2008 at 11:49 am
My desire to read more of the Puritan mind has been stimulated by J.I. Packers book A Quest for Godliness…I hope this next year growing in grace through the pens of the puritans will produce much fruit…Amen
January 7, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Though I wont’ be participating myself (I have a different program for reading in 2008), I have read many of the Puritans over the years and I am promoting this on my blog.
January 7, 2008 at 1:18 pm
I, of course, am in. I have a list of the books and a link to your original post in my sidebar. I will also be doing a short bio first of the month and doing a somewhat substantive book review where I review the book, give personal reflections, consider ministry application, and a brief devotional of sorts for readers from the content.
Thanks for the button, now I can add that to the sidebar!
January 7, 2008 at 1:26 pm
I’m in. I think it’s gonna be an awesome challenge.
January 7, 2008 at 1:38 pm
I found out about your challenge via Between Two Worlds. I’m greatly tempted to join, but have already set out my reading plans for 2008. I’ll have to ponder this for a day or two. If I were to do this, I’d have to do it on top of my already demanding work schedule as an editor and my reading plans for 2008.
January 7, 2008 at 1:49 pm
timmy,
count me in! I’ve never read a puritan book before but have read much about them (eg. worldly saints). this is a great idea and look forward to the challenge! hopefully I can keep up
January 7, 2008 at 1:52 pm
David Wallace, and I am in as well.
January 7, 2008 at 2:09 pm
I’m adding this to my already very full reading challenge schedule this year. I already have some of the books, and just ordered the rest. I’ll also post a link on my blog. Thank you so much for putting this together!
January 7, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Thanks to Justin Taylor for the blogtip on this deal. I’m definitely going to join in on this puritan action.
Thanks for this.
January 7, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Josh Gelatt is in.
January 7, 2008 at 2:51 pm
Hi Timmy,
I am from South Africa, and I am in. I have written about the challenge at my blog at http://williamdicks.blogspot.com/2008/01/2008-puritan-reading-challenge.html.
January 7, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Can’t join (although I may adapt my reading plan to include some puritans), but I am promoting it to friends on my blog. Thanks for doing this! I’ll be very interested in doing something like this next year!
January 7, 2008 at 5:57 pm
Tim, count me in.
I am going to pray through this commitment and see it through! I have a flexible enough schedule that I can add these reads to my list… things might get crazy at first as KK and I are expecting our little Hannah any day now, but if January does not work out, then I will be in full force in February. It shouldn’t keep me from the readings that much…
I will order the books, and again you can count me in. Do I need to do anything else other than a verbal conformation?
Loving the Logos,
Yogi Taylor
January 7, 2008 at 6:00 pm
[...] are being offered for those participating in the challenge. Again, go sign up for the challenge on this post over at Timmy’s blog and take advantage of the discounts to get your Puritan Paperbacks, if [...]
January 7, 2008 at 6:10 pm
I plan to tackle the 2008 Puritan Challenge.
Thanks for ordering it and arranging the discount!
Puritan Fan
January 7, 2008 at 8:30 pm
I am so in. Thanks for setting the challenge and arranging the great discounts at RHB.
Looking forward to the journey!
avid reader abandoned to God
January 7, 2008 at 8:39 pm
[...] Brister has posted a great challenge on his blog. Click here to read the details. Explore posts in the same categories: Books, Theology/Bible, What Sean is [...]
January 7, 2008 at 9:19 pm
I know you can get some of the books from sites like Monergism and such. That is how I am reading Sibbes’ The Bruised Reed for this month. I printed it out and it only took 56 pages. Just thought I would throw out an alternative source for the books online. God bless in the reading.
January 7, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Im interested in growing in knowledge of the puritans and am excited to see how they will excel my relationship with the Lord.
January 7, 2008 at 9:45 pm
Count me in and I hope others will follow the link on my site to join in as well.
Grace & Peace
Tony Konvalin
January 7, 2008 at 10:06 pm
[...] reading, and reading (and of course, writing & blogging). I am very tempted to join the 2008 Purtian Paperback reading challenge, but with my course load and reading through the Bible in the year, I am not sure how well I can [...]
January 7, 2008 at 10:55 pm
Timmy,
This is a great idea! I can’t do it because of other reading obligations but I will definitely post something on my site. I have two a personal one and fitness site. Enjoy your day!
January 7, 2008 at 11:16 pm
Timmy,
You might try pasting the code into a simple txt file for windows notepad. You can upload this to the post and the puritans can download it.
January 7, 2008 at 11:24 pm
I’m in.
January 7, 2008 at 11:52 pm
Me too.
January 8, 2008 at 12:03 am
We’ve loved these books and can’t wait to go through them fully! Thanks for arranging the discount on the set. I’ve put the widget on my blog.
January 8, 2008 at 3:49 am
Hi Timmy,
Some things are odd! Not with your idea. I tried twice last night to comment on this post, yet my comments are not here. So, here goes a third time.
I am from South Africa, and I am in on this challenge.
I have written a comment on this challenge there and also challenged ‘both’ of my readers to join in this challenge
You can find my post at http://williamdicks.blogspot.com/2008/01/2008-puritan-reading-challenge.html.
January 8, 2008 at 3:55 am
Great idea - I’m looking forward to the challenge.
Will post a word doc. each month with favourite quotes and ones that I’ve found helpful.
January 8, 2008 at 4:32 am
William,
I don’t know why, but sometimes legit comments get tossed into the spam folder, and currently, I have over 3,000 spam comments, so it would be looking for a needle in a haystack to find your comments! I am sorry about that, but I had nothing to do with it. One thing I do know is that comments with multiple links are often considered spam as they are an indicator that someone is trying to sell or direct you to something.
It is great to have you in on the challenge. As far as I know, there are folks from Japan and the UK as well. It’s amazing how this challenge can be so global and unify us under one little, yet significant idea. I look forward to reading your blog and interacting in the future.
January 8, 2008 at 5:02 am
Everyone,
Thank you for taking part in the challenge! One of the greatest things about something like this is the opportunity to meet and get to know many of you for the first time. I look forward to the journey the 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge will bring!
After the first day, there have been close to 4,500 folks to check out the challenge here, and as of this moment, 24 blogs are plugging the challenge. While it is still really early to determine everyone who has signed on thus far, I have determined at least 50 to date which is great! I am hopeful that we can see over 100 people reading the Puritans together, something which they (the Puritans) would have never imagined!
As you can see in the update, I added the list of books to the post so that everyone can know what we are reading for each month. I think it would be helpful to explain a little why I chose these particular Puritan Paperbacks and in the order I placed them.
1. While there are other more popular Puritan Paperbacks (especially from Owen, Brooks, and Watson), I decided to have only one book per author, allowing readers to have wider exposure to various authors. While we will be reading their books, I do hope to share a little about the author as well during each month.
2. I front-loaded the reading with the more readable works, being sensitive to the fact that some if not most will be reading 17th century Puritan writing for the first time. I certainly didn’t want to begin with Owen! Sibbes, Flavel, and Watson have a writing style much easier to follow than others and serve as a preparatory grounds for other more challenging reads.
3. I tried to balance the content/topics as well. For instance, after reading Owen’s Mortification of Sin, I figured we all could use a little encouragement(!), so I chose A Lifting Up of the Downcast by William Bridge. I also tried to be sensitive to various months which are shorter (February) and busier (December) than others, putting lighter or shorter works while putting the more challenging reads on months that are more likely to offer more reading margin.
I guess that’s it. Honestly, you cannot go wrong with any of the Puritan Paperbacks and realize that some of you will develop a schedule of your own. That’s totally fine, and I do hope you share your thoughts either here (at the end of each month) or on your blog. In any case, I believe the time and energy spent in reading the Puritans in 2008 will reap rich rewards in our doctrinal and experiential knowledge of God.
January 8, 2008 at 5:06 am
One more thing:
In case you missed the update (#4) on the post, Tim Keller, of whom I have deep respect and appreciation for, shared his unsolicited thoughts on this Puritan Reading Challenge on JT’s blog. Here is what he wrote:
If some of these books saved Keller’s life, imagine the significance this challenge could have in yours! Thank you Dr. Keller for your personal recommendation and encouraging words!
January 8, 2008 at 5:59 am
Tim,
I have just learnt about this through the ‘Pure Church’ blog. I am from Zambia and am in.
January 8, 2008 at 6:14 am
I have some Puritan Paperbacks on my shelf - given by a friend - and now is the opportunity to read them. Thank you. It will be a new adventure sharing “heaven on earth.” I will share the reading opportunity with my friend as well.
January 8, 2008 at 6:15 am
Rees,
It is great to have you on board! BTW, you wouldn’t happen to know Conrad Mbewe would you? Just curious. I also recently had one of my old college roommates serve two years in Kasama.
January 8, 2008 at 6:46 am
Count me in! I have decided to join the challenge with the hope of learning more about our dear Heavenly Father through these faithful men of God. I am thankful for you for coming up with the idea. Not only am I going to participate in the challenge but will also promote it from my blog, Pastor and People. Thanks again - Let the journey begin!
January 8, 2008 at 7:50 am
Count us in! Iron sharpening iron — what a great idea for 2008!
January 8, 2008 at 8:57 am
Count me in as well!
I’ve had the whole set of Puritan Paperbacks for a couple of years now and am ready, willing, and able to “mine the riches” in the 12 you have chosen to read in 2008.
January 8, 2008 at 9:00 am
Lemme at ‘em!!! I’m in!
January 8, 2008 at 9:20 am
I’m in for as many months as I can. Already own at least 7 of the 12 books but only read a couple of them. Was wondering what my next read should be, but now I’m going to make it “A Bruised Reed.” Thanks for your labor of love to make this as profitable as you can to all of us.
sda
January 8, 2008 at 9:57 am
Good idea. This will be a good way to assure I’m reading good gospel-centered and deeply spiritual stuff amidst my studies.
Mark Rogers
January 8, 2008 at 10:14 am
I’m going to read through the Puritans this year. I have a number of these books already and this is a great way to keep me accountable for reading them. Thanks.
January 8, 2008 at 11:10 am
My wife and I are both in!! That will be even more of a challenge as we are going to share the books :O
January 8, 2008 at 11:20 am
I had the same idea before I found your blog, your plan of attack was better formulated than mine. I made a few changes, since I am reading or have read a few of the books on your list. I look forward to the challenge and have called my readers to join us in this endeavor.
January 8, 2008 at 11:27 am
[...] http://timmybrister.com/2008/01/07/join-the-2008-puritan-reading-challenge/ [...]
January 8, 2008 at 11:37 am
I’m in…sounds great and I’ll post updates on my blog as well
http://deep-roots.blogspot.com/2008/01/taking-up-challenge.html
Thanks for doing this,
Justin
January 8, 2008 at 11:46 am
I’m in as well. I look forward to the interaction with others on this project. Great idea!
January 8, 2008 at 12:24 pm
I’m in, and I’ve talked my mom in as well. Thank you for the work you are doing on this!
January 8, 2008 at 12:39 pm
This is a great idea and I am looking forward to getting introduced to the Puritans. I am in.
January 8, 2008 at 1:04 pm
I’m going to try the challenge. I ordered the first two books and look forward to getting started.
January 8, 2008 at 1:59 pm
I’m in….I guess I am a few days late, but I’ll get started tonight.
January 8, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Hey I bought the books the other day and I’m looking forward to reading them!
Grace and Peace,
Johnny Grimes
January 8, 2008 at 2:34 pm
I have ordered the books and look forward to beginning as soon as they arrive and following your blog this year. Thanks
January 8, 2008 at 2:50 pm
I also am hoping to read through the Puritan challenge. I’ve started “The Bruised Reed” and am greatly encouraged by what Richard Sibbes has to say.
Blessings and thanks
January 8, 2008 at 5:25 pm
[...] As a tangent, I’ve become interested in reading more about the (negatively stereotyped) Puritans like Richard Baxter, John Owen etc. If you’re interested here is a post to get you started: Puritans, We Greet Thee in 2008 Updated Link: Join the 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge! [...]
January 8, 2008 at 7:02 pm
[...] 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge >>> [...]
January 8, 2008 at 7:31 pm
I put in my order to Banner last night and am looking forward to start as soon as they arrive.
January 8, 2008 at 8:32 pm
Nice idea. I’ll give it a try.
January 8, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Count me in too. I cant wait to start reading. Thanks so much for doing this!
January 8, 2008 at 10:01 pm
Excellent idea! Thank you for the opportunity extended for others to join in.
January 8, 2008 at 10:55 pm
Ron Kinzel is IN
January 8, 2008 at 11:43 pm
I’m in, ust bought the books today.
January 9, 2008 at 12:25 am
Looking forward to it!
January 9, 2008 at 5:45 am
Everyone,
Things are shaping up great! Big thanks to all of you who have taken the time to sign on by commenting. If you know of anyone else who has expressed interest or desire to join in, be sure they take a moment to comment on this post.
After the second day, over 6,000 folks have checked out the challenge, 38 blogs plugging it, and bumping 90 for those signed onto the challenge.
In the coming days, you will begin to see posts explaining the challenge as well as initiating the conversation regarding the book, The Bruised Reed by Richard Sibbes. I am really jazzed about it, and I hope you are too!
At the end of the month, I will do a random drawing from those who have signed on to the challenge by commenting on this post. I will notify the winner privately and then post it shortly thereafter.
Now, I don’t know about you, but I’ve got some reading to do!
January 9, 2008 at 9:03 am
I just heard about the challenge from Jim at Old Truth. Count me in! Thanks!
January 9, 2008 at 10:27 am
Count me in. Of course, I’m cheating a little as I’ve read many of these for Dr. Wright’s “English Puritanism” class last year. (If you are a student at Southern, this class is an absolute MUST) But I’ll enjoy a good rereading of those. Over time, I’ve come to miss the “long s” that looks like the letter “f” of the typefaces in which the Puritan works were originally printed. I like the BOT Puritan Paperback abridgements, sometimes they were a very helpful crib when I got lost in Dr. Wright’s course reader.
January 9, 2008 at 10:47 am
Hi!
I’ve decided to take this reading challenge, and have started a new blog specially:
http://www.revddrwho.blogspot.com
The Rev’d Dr Who
January 9, 2008 at 12:43 pm
I am in.
January 9, 2008 at 12:45 pm
I’m in!
January 9, 2008 at 2:02 pm
[...] Timmy Brister has issued a challenge to Christians to read through some of the most important writings of the Puritans, reading one book [...]
January 9, 2008 at 2:57 pm
Count me in. I am very excited about this. I only wish we could somehow promote this among other denominations where their are genuine believers who may have never even heard of the “puritans”. I am certain that there are hungry souls out there who have no idea what they are missing–I was one of them, until coming across an old BOT publication in a used book store. My life and faith was drastically changed and I have such a burden for those sitting in local churches who are never exposed to these edifying and soul enriching works.
Those of us who walk in this circle sometimes forget that there are thousands of believers who have never been exposed to any of this and it is a burden on my heart to somehow reach them. Any ideas?
January 9, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Challenge accepted! May Him whom we serve be pleased to use this
“challenge” to conform us more and more into the image of the Christ.
January 9, 2008 at 3:42 pm
It seems as if the South Africans struggle to “submit their comments:-)”
I have been trying for quite some time now… let’s hope this one is (t)here.
January 9, 2008 at 3:54 pm
I am sorry Sonja! Glad your comment won in the struggle against my spam box!
I really need to do something about that!
January 9, 2008 at 4:06 pm
Count me in…I’m looking forward to this…what a great idea.
January 9, 2008 at 4:31 pm
timmy,
i enjoy reading your blog. thanks for your ministry through the blogosphere. count me in on the Puritan Challenge. i’m looking forward to it!
January 9, 2008 at 6:29 pm
Great idea… I’m in.
January 9, 2008 at 7:54 pm
I’m in.
January 9, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Hi, Im Julie. My husband has a lot of puritan books and raves about them, shares alot of his revelations with me. I’ve never read 1 in its entirety yet. so I will take the 2008 Puritan Reading Challenge. My husband will be so proud. I will comment on my blog as soon as I make one…Im so excited.
January 9, 2008 at 9:28 pm
Okay, I have a blog space, but I dont have any friends on it yet…hahah
http://www.myspace.com/puritanfellowship
Julie Brigham
January 9, 2008 at 9:59 pm
This is a great idea and you can count me in! I’ve ordered the books and can’t wait to get started. I also plan on participating in the discussion.
January 10, 2008 at 1:30 am
I’m in.
January 10, 2008 at 1:42 am
I am in!
I read your site.
I have posted maybe two or so comments before 2008.
I have never read a Puritan book.
I am so happy to have this challenge to encourage me to read one. YEAH!!
January 10, 2008 at 5:15 am
Everyone,
After the third day, we are right at around 100 signed on to reading the Puritans in 2008. One of the things I keep thinking about is the fact that we will all be reading books over 300 years old while people tell us that the only books worth reading are the trendy “relevant” ones. In a way, I kind of hope that this challenge will serve as a protest to the contemporary best-seller list and a challenge to Christian publishers as well!
I have received numerous emails along with the comments. If I do not reply immediately, please know that I am trying to respond in a timely manner. There have been some more exciting developments in recent days, and I look forward to sharing them with you soon.
After the weekend, I am going to post a reciprocal link-post as a way of saying thanks to all who have either added the blog button or promoted the challenge on your website or blog.
Also, at the beginning of next week, I hope to begin the discussion with some posts on what “the sweet dropper” (Sibbes) has written. Please consider joining in as we discussion!
January 10, 2008 at 10:18 am
I’m in. I’m starting “The Bruised Reed” today. This’ll be my second trip through it, but it will be worth it. Thanks for the challenge.
January 10, 2008 at 10:46 am
I’m in! Not sure how I’ll squeeze it in but you didn’t call it a challenge for nuthin’, right? Looking forward to it!
January 10, 2008 at 12:00 pm
I don’t think I’ve ever read a Puritan book before but I’m going to see what I can do about meeting as much of your challenge as possible.
January 10, 2008 at 12:05 pm
Count me in too…books on the way.
January 10, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Count me in. I have read several on the list, but I can definitely benefit from reading them again. I will blog my thoughts related to the readings in the near future, but I am currently doing the Said at Southern Seminary Bible Reading Challenge so until the end of January I am not going to be posting much at all. Thanks for the challenge. A very influential book for me was J.I. Packer’s A Quest for Godliness. Since reading it I have read a lot of the Puritan Paperbacks and I have never disappointed.
January 10, 2008 at 12:42 pm
I am excited about participating in this challenge…thank you…
Marsha Amos
January 10, 2008 at 1:06 pm
I’m in! Thanks for the encouraging challenge!
Blessings,
Kelly
January 10, 2008 at 1:33 pm
This is great. Thanks for doing this. I am looking forward to a great year.
January 10, 2008 at 2:02 pm
Count me in. I just placed the order.
January 10, 2008 at 3:38 pm
like i told the partins you had me at practical. we’re going to give it a shot.
January 10, 2008 at 5:05 pm
I’m in, and halfway through Bruised Reed.
January 10, 2008 at 5:14 pm
I’m in!
January 10, 2008 at 10:46 pm
I am in, along with my brother - Joel Majors.
Thanks for doing this.
January 10, 2008 at 11:40 pm
My books came today!!
I am really excited to begin reading them.
Pray for my perseverence.
January 11, 2008 at 5:33 am
Laura,
For sure. Also, I hope that the ongoing discussion will aid in your perseverance and offer some encouragement and incentive to read! I think you will enjoy reading Sibbes as I think his book is a great starter.
January 11, 2008 at 10:15 am
“…Mary sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what He said” Luke 10:39
“but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” Luke 10:42
Wonderful! The first Step! Reading good books written by godly men is a matter of discipline. Our attitude determines our altitude. Go the extra mile…. I thank you.
January 11, 2008 at 10:55 am
I will accept this challenge, and Lord willing I will be able to fulfill it. I placed my order. I am so excited to be a part of this challenge. I homeschool and we have studied the Puritans only a little so far. This will be great for all of us. Thanks.
January 11, 2008 at 11:37 am
Jimmy,
Ive orderd the books and here is my real blog…I’m new.
January 11, 2008 at 11:38 am
Timmy, jk…sorry-typo….thanks…did I mention that, I’m New.
January 11, 2008 at 12:03 pm
i’m on it like a fat kid on a donut!
January 11, 2008 at 1:25 pm
I’m in as well. Also, one of the 14 yr olds in my youth group wants to give it a shot. I told him I’ll buy the first two. Received the order last week and ready to get started.
January 11, 2008 at 2:02 pm
I’m Tom Queen, found the PC through Justin Taylor’s blog, and think this is a wonderful way to consistently read Puritan works. I’m in.
January 11, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Count me in! I’ve been reading the Puritans and it IS life changing! Thanks for putting this Challenge together! What a great idea!!!!!
January 11, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Count me in. My daughter told me about it.
January 11, 2008 at 6:22 pm
I came across this site by “accident”, but have taken up the challenge and ordered the first two books. I am pretty excited by this concept and wish I had come across it before. I work as a Senior Systems Manager and my days are pretty much taken up with technology- so it will be a good time to sit down, relax, and read the thoughts of these good people.
Thanks for the idea- and I will obviously be back often to check up on the other information you have going on and connected items. This is truly great!
Paul, UK
January 11, 2008 at 6:36 pm
Paul,
I am glad you found out about the challenge. It’s great to hear of its reception from across the pond! Having read much about the 17th Century English Puritanism, I really want to go there!
January 11, 2008 at 10:13 pm
I’m in and i’m posting the challenge on our church website. FBC Boynton Beach, FL http://www.firstboynton.com
January 11, 2008 at 10:23 pm
looking foward to each new month and new book
January 12, 2008 at 8:58 am
My books arrived today! Woo-Hoo! Just in time too—-God is never late, is he? Although I ordered my first 2 books from Monergism, I also ordered all 12 books from RHB—–couldn’t pass up that deal! Thanks Tim, really appreciate it!
January 12, 2008 at 9:20 am
I decided that I was going to read more this year, so count me in.
January 12, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Timmy,
I am in. I just ordered the set from Reformation Heritage Books. I also wrote an entry about it in my blog at http://www.coffeewithcurt.blogspot.com. I’m looking forward to this.
January 12, 2008 at 1:51 pm
We just joined and are excited to add these 12 books to our growing library. We look forward to wonderful discussion from the reading. Thanks. I will also include this challenge on my blog at: http://refreshingramblings.blogspot.com/.
January 12, 2008 at 2:21 pm
I’ve already read a few of these books but I hope to read the rest with the P&P challenge this year. I’m busy this year but I hope to post my favorite quotes from each book during their month on my blog http://www.headtheology.com/.
January 12, 2008 at 2:37 pm
[...] For more visit Timmy Brister at P&P. [...]
January 12, 2008 at 6:21 pm
Tim,
I am definitely in, and excited about the idea… looking forward to posting on these as well, and will add the widget on my blog (assuming I can figure out how to get that done!)
January 12, 2008 at 6:42 pm
Hi,i’m in !!
From the UK so going to try amazon for the books..Im not a Reform Christians,hope that doesnt matter
January 12, 2008 at 6:57 pm
Andy,
Welcome my friend! Certainly you do not have to be reformed, though I will warn you that reading the Puritans stands a good chance that you will be persuaded.
It’s great to see so many from the UK joining the challenge!
January 12, 2008 at 9:10 pm
Maybe hehe
I’m a great fan of M L Jones,i read a lot of his books back in the 80s & his bio..
UK people joining is no surprise to me!!
Anyhow off to sleep late here
January 12, 2008 at 9:41 pm
I am looking forward to reading these great books at the same time as so many others!
January 13, 2008 at 2:02 pm
Kristopher,
It should be great. We are not at 125 people which is fantastic.
January 13, 2008 at 4:52 pm
Hi - I just purchased the books (as a birthday present to myself) and plan to start in on the first one as soon as they arrive.
Thanks for the great & edifying idea!
January 13, 2008 at 6:41 pm
Patrick,
Welcome! I hope you enjoy the books and discussion!
January 13, 2008 at 7:31 pm
Hey Timmy,
I’m in, although I’ll be a little tardy in starting because I just ordered the books yesterday. I haven’t decided if I’ll be doing any blogging regarding it yet. I’ll let you know if I do.
January 13, 2008 at 8:25 pm
Great Matt! Glad to see you jumping in!
January 13, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Hey Timmy,
I love the post though I am fairly new to the blogosphere! However, i am in on the puritan challenge…i even ordered Valley of Vision for some extra reading over the year in the Puritans!
thanks for the great idea and challenge!
Joel Reynolds
Clarksville, Tennessee
FBC Clarksville.
January 13, 2008 at 9:42 pm
I’m in!
William Bausch
January 13, 2008 at 10:24 pm
Joel,
Welcome to the blogosphere, and it is great to have you in the challenge. The Valley of Vision is a great devotional resource, and I trust it will be a meaningful addition to your time with the Lord.
January 14, 2008 at 1:57 am
[...] Get involved! For more information about the challenge check out Timmy’s post HERE. [...]
January 14, 2008 at 2:12 am
Tim,
Yes, I know Pastor Conrad Mbewe. He pastors a church that was planted by the one that I am a member of (Lusaka Baptist Church). Have you met him?
January 14, 2008 at 5:19 am
Rees,
Yes, I have met Pastor Conrad. He spoke at the True Church Conference in Alabama last May, and I was there live-blogging the conference. Here are my posts on Pastor Conrad’s messages:
TCC III: Conrad Mbewe on “The Power of the Holy Spirit and the Miracle of Conversion”
TCC IV: Conrad Mbewe on “The Power of the Holy Spirit and the Miracle of Conversion”
I also have some photos of Pastor Conrad from the conference which you can find by going to this set:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/solaluminacaptura/sets/72157600166029172/
He’s a dynamic preacher, and I can understand why they call him the Spurgeon of Africa.
January 14, 2008 at 8:19 am
Many thanks Tim. God bless. Without your permission, I have began a word of mouth recruitment to the challenge. Many will not have easy access to the internet but have access to the church library puritan papersbacks. Will let you know how I do.
January 14, 2008 at 12:03 pm
I am going to join the challenge, one of the guys at work happens to have all the books so I am going to borrow his until mine arrive.
January 14, 2008 at 5:31 pm
I started reading Sibbes this past weekend, so count me in.
January 14, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Tim,
I was introduced to this challenge and your blog through my Pastor and the Calling For Truth radio show. I’m very excited about the prospect of reading these works as I know everyone involved will be tremendously edified. Count me in! I’m looking forward to the discussions “on air” at the end of each month.
Dave
January 14, 2008 at 6:52 pm
I’ve read some of the authors before (Owens, Alleine, Watson Bunyan, Baxter), but not these particular books, so this seemed like a really good opportunity! OTOH, I really have to finish two books I’m in the middle of right now before I can feel justified starting a new reading program. Besides, mine won’t even arrive for a few weeks, so I won’t be ready until February.
Just the same, count me in and I’ll look forward to hearing how the Lord uses these works at the end of every month!
January 14, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Rees,
Trust me, brother, you do not need my permission! I would love to hear an update on the developments. Also, if the books are not accessible, you might be able to find some of them online to print out. For instance, you can get the entire book, The Bruised Reed here:
http://www.monergism.com/bruisedreed.html
January 14, 2008 at 10:07 pm
For anyone who’s waiting on the books to be shipped and wants to start reading before they arrived, Sibbes’ “The Bruised Reed” is available in HTML format at…
http://www.monergism.com/bruisedreed.html
January 14, 2008 at 10:10 pm
(Sorry about the duplication on the link - I’ve got to read the previous posts a little more closely.)
January 14, 2008 at 10:20 pm
[...] January: The Bruised Reed by Richard Sibbes (128 pp) February: The Mystery of Providence by John Fla… [...]
January 14, 2008 at 10:22 pm
Have you seen these sites?
http://www.heartcrymissionary.com
http://www.grantedministries,org
http://www.lakeroadchapel.org
Very good content!
January 14, 2008 at 10:29 pm
Mr. Leiter,
Yes, I have seen (and linked) to those websites in the past. However, let me encourage you to keep your comments within the context of the post.
In the blogosphere, people would call you a “troll” or “drive-by”–that is, someone who comments for free advertisement or seeking to draw traffic to your website without an direct or sincere interest i