In a lecture series to seminary graduates, I heard John Piper advise, "Find a theologian who connects with you at the deepest spiritual level and read everything by him that you can get your hands on." I have found mine, and it is Charles Haddon Spurgeon.
Some will, justifiably, argue that Spurgeon was not what we moderns call a "theologian." But, as the goal of Piper's counsel was not the exercise of my intellect but rather the perfecting of my inner man, Spurgeon is my man.
I must say, however, that those who glibbly dismiss Spurgeon do so to their own loss, for there has never been a more balanced, practical, and capable communicator of the Reformed faith--which Spurgeon simply (and rightly!) considered synonymous with the gospel. His knowledge ran deep, but his heart was wide so he sought always to package his theology in words that the commoner would understand. Thus, often overlooked are his engagement with puritan and reformed writers, his powers of research, and his influence upon contemporary theological issues.
Most importantly for me, the Spirit of God speaks to my heart--bringing conviction, courage, and renewed commitment--through Spurgeon's work unlike that of any other man, and He does so consistently. When I read Spurgeon I am well fed, morning and evening.
That is not to say that I agree with Spurgeon on all points. I do not. I disagree with his pacifist tendencies and his structure of church government, just to name a couple. But I admire his faith, his zeal, and his sincerity (I also wouldn't mind a measure of his preaching ability). He was a man I'd be honored to emulate.
You might think by my introduction that this will be a blog about Spurgeon. It will not. I just wanted you to be aware of the heart and motivations behind me, its author. Contained herein you will find meditations, notes, and "rabbit-trails" of a man who hopes to influence others as I, myself, have been influenced. And if, after my time on this earth has come to end, someone compares some aspect of my life or ministry to Charles Haddon Spurgeon, so much the better!
